Buying With Bulk- Great Full-Bodied Cigars

In the life of every cigar smoker, the time comes when desire for a strong cigar trumps loyalty. Take for instance, yourself. You may be a dedicated fan of Ashton Classics, swearing up and down to your stogie that they are the only one for you. Afraid of leaving your brand abandoned or - dare I say - crushed, you may brush off any desires that come your way. You may ignore the yearning to try something stronger or, even worse, you may sneak around, meeting new cigars in dive bars and seedy hotel rooms for a few blissful moments of uninhibited pleasure. But, this only causes you to feel disloyal to the brand you have been with for years, making you feel guilty. After all, you tell yourself, cigars have feelings to.

Now, rest assured, you aren't committing tobacco adultery. It's perfectly natural to jump around from brand to brand. Sometimes you feel like a spicy cigar, sometimes you don't. Sometimes you feel like a sweet cigar, sometimes you don't. Sometimes you feel like a full bodied cigar, and sometimes you don't. But, when you do, there are some better than others. The following is a list of a few of the best full-bodied cigars, cigars that make it well worth cheating on your regular brand.

Camacho Corojo: Grown in the Jamastran Valley of Honduras, these cigars are rare, rich, and complex. Like cigars dedicated to a weight room, they are some of the strongest in existence. Made from a seed that was smuggled out of Cuba, these cigars are a favorite among many connoisseurs. Many tobacco stores keep it as a staple brand, not only because it is popular among customers, but also for those times when the staff has an urge to sample the product.

Coronado By La Flor Cigars: For years, the Dominican Republic and Nicaragua have been giving Cuba a run for its money when it comes to best land for cigar production. The Coronado, a tag teaming Dominican Republic and Nicaragua effort, takes some of the lime light away from Cuba. Masterfully blended with Dominican filler and binder, and a Nicaraguan wrapper, the Coronado is full of spicy, peppery, and rich flavors.

Little Gomez Diez Cigars: A cigar originally made to celebrate La Flor Domincana's 10th anniversary, 100 percent of the tobacco that makes up this cigar is from the Dominican Republic. This, in the cigar world, is a rarity because it is difficult to procure Dominican Republic tobacco that is suitable for a binder, a filler, and a wrapper. With hints of spicy leather, this cigar allows the Dominican Republic to stand up and take a bow.

Carlos Torano Virtuoso: Made with the first sun grown wrapper from the Torano family, this cigar speaks volumes for their deep Cuban roots. The Virtuosos is the most full-bodied in the Carlos Torano line, but it is still a very balanced, smooth, and easy smoke. Consisting of tobacco from Panama, Honduras, and Nicaragua, the Virtuoso allows cigar lovers to sample a taste of several different regions, a taste that reminds smokers of chocolate, spice, and coffee.

The Edge by Rocky Patel: This cigar should come with a warning label, one that says, "Novices need not apply." For smokers who have some experience under their belt, this is a worthy notch. True to its name, this cigar has the edge on full-bodied cigars. Its flavor and spice can't be rivaled.

Every smoker at one time or another wants to stray away from the cigar brand to which they have become loyal. This doesn't make you a bad smoker, just a curious one. Sometimes you have to break the mold and try something with a little more body. Just break it to your brand gently; it will eventually forgive you.

Jennifer Jordan is an editor and staff writer for http://www.whatsknottolove.com. At home in a design firm in Denver, Colorado, she writes articles specific to the finer things in life.

Buy a new House

I have been a little lacking in action again and got some reviews to be backed up. The last few weeks I spent all my spare time working on getting my current House ready to sell and take a look at the new House. Finally, We fixed the House we want and finish in a few weeks.

I wanted to point out a really cool cigar room that Ryan put in his basement; When I get fast should I get started with a similar project in the new House.

I would be interested if anyone else has done something similar, or do anything to control smoke in their homes. Until I can get this built should I smoking on deck or in the garage.: (

Popularity: 1% [?]

View the original article here

Ohio Residents Rethinking Smoking Ban

This is probably a little News in the right direction. A recent poll shows that a majority of Ohio residents to allow smoking in bars again, but want to retain the restaurants smoke free.

Ohio poll: think smoking ban | cincinnati.com | cincinnati.com.

Popularity: 1% [?]Tagged as: Cincinnati, ohio, non-smoking ban

View the original article here

Premium Cigars Connoisseurs Buy

Cuban cigars still hold the market as a premium cigar even after the embargo was placed on the product. People still look for this cigar and usually end up with a fraudulent cigar instead of the real thing. The Habanas still hold onto people as a connoisseur of these premium cigars. Even when prices top the list, people still buy these cigars at any cost. Why do people do this? They do it for the taste and have not experienced all the other premium cigars offered locally. These cigars offer quality flavor and draw just as the Cuban cigar does.

Knowing that these cigars are considered contraband, many people or cigar smokers do not care. They look for the cigars everywhere and some probably have their own connections to the popular cigar. Although we try to find the Cuban cigars because they are premium cigars, we forget that some people are out to defraud the connoisseur with fakes. You may pay a pretty penny for these cigars, but imagine lighting up something that tastes less than perfect.

How do you tell premium cigars [http://www.onlinecigarsource.com/Cuban_Cigars_2/] from the fraudulent ones? The packaging, the colors and the labels. The knockoffs will not have the same fine quality packaging that the originals have. You might look at the wrap, the paper wraps and the tips. Premium cigars are perfect with perfect packaging. If you have a doubt about the cigar, you are probably right about it being a fake. You have to use your knowledge and take into consideration the overall look. Different premium cigars have a distinctive color wrapper, whether it is darker or lighter, this is one sure way to see if you have a fake or the real thing.

Many tobacco shops offer samples and this either breaks the deal or seals the deal when looking for premium cigars. If you have a Cuban cigar in your hand, check the seal. The Cuban seals are distinctive and flawless. No other company can reproduce the seal and placement as the original Cuban company. If you find true premium cigars such as the Cuban cigars, you will be one lucky connoisseur. If you find a knockoff, you might have a less than perfect experience with cigar smoking as some are very bitter. Look for a seal and the right packaging before buying and lighting up that supposed premium cigar.

You can also find more info on Fine Cigars [http://www.onlinecigarsource.com/Fine_Cigars/] and Handmade Cigars [http://www.onlinecigarsource.com/Handmade_Cigars/]. Onlinecigarsource.com is a comprehensive resource to know more about Cigars.

Gilsson 12V Cigarette Lighter Adapter for Garmin GPS Nuvi 650 660 750 755 760 765 775 885 855 850 Zumo StreetPilot C550

This cigarette lighter adapter works with Garmin nüvi, StreetPilot, and zūmo GPS receivers. Comparable to Garmin's car adapters, it will power and charge your Garmin GPS while you navigate. Utilizing a proprietary 18-pin connector that connects either directly to the GPS or through the Garmin cradle, this cable is guranteed to be 100% compatible with your Garmin GPS. The cable is six feet in length.

Gilsson GPS cables are produced using the highest UL-certified materials and components. Each component is custom manufactured to ensure a perfect fit with Garmin GPS units. Gilsson cables are manufactured at ISO 9000/9001/9002-certified factories, and are fully molded from end to end for durability and safety.

Comparable to Garmin 010-10747-03 Adapter.

Compatible Garmin GPS Receivers

• Garmin nüvi 5000, 650, 660, 670, 680, 710, 750, 755T, 760, 765T, 770, 775T, 780, 785T, 850, 860, 880
• StreetPilot C510, C530, C550, C580
• zÅ«mo 400, 450, 500, 550

What's in the Box
Gilsson GHS-12V Cigarette Lighter Adapter

Price: $24.95

Click here to buy from Amazon

Essential Cigar Accessories

What are the essential accessories you need to smoke a cigar? You may think that you simply have to light the cigar and puff away. However, fully enjoying the cigar and smoking it the right way involves some accessories.

Get to know cigars first. Do this by buying a cigar magazine or getting some information online. Then, go to a tobacconist to check out some cigars. The tobacconist will give you his advice on the cigars he stocks.

Buy a cigar humidor. Humidors are usually made of wood, though I saw a marble one on Amazon the other day, and keep the humidity and temperature in the humidor at a certain level to preserve the cigars. Cigar humidors usually hold 20 or 25 cigars.

Get a cigar holder so that they don't get crushed or dirty. Some cigar holders hold up to 3 cigars while some hold only 1. Purchasing a cigar holder is a must if you like smoking cigars at any time.

Get a cigar cutter. The best ones are made of stainless steel and feature a double blade design. The blades are extremely sharp so take caution when using it. Cigar cutters usually come in a practical, compact size.

Cigar punchers are great if you do not wish to use a cigar cutter. While the cigar puncher essentially achieves the same goal as the cigar cutter, it is more compact and classy.

Instead of using a match or a conventional lighter to light your cigar, get a proper cigar lighter. They come in a tube shape and are very efficient because you they include a cutter. So, you simply put one end of the cigar in to cut and then flip it around to light it. The cigar lighters use butane and are sold empty.

To view and to find out more about cigar accessories, visit this page. I hope you found this useful.

elago Nano EL-Car-001 USB Car Charger for iPhone, iPod, MP3 Players, Digital Cameras, PDAs, Mobile Phones and more (Black)

Use your cigar lighter outlet to charge any devices (iPhone, iPod, MP3 Players, Digital Cameras, PDAs, Mobile Phones and more) that can rely on USB for power. This adapter plugs into your car's cigarette lighter jack to become a powered USB port.

Price: $19.99

Click here to buy from Amazon

Cigar 101: Basic Tips for the Cigar Novice

Many of you, for different reasons, are having a love affair with cigars, rendezvousing in sidewalk cafes, coffee shops, and restaurants for a few joyful moments. Perhaps you like the flavor, perhaps you like the aroma, or perhaps you just like to tell people who smoke skinny cigarettes, "My cigar can beat up your Marlboro." For whatever reason, the cigar is a luxury many of you choose to use.

However, for some of you, the above statement might not be true. You may, never having gone beyond the pink or blue bubblegum cigars handed out in hospitals after the birth of a child, be a little leery of cigars. They might seem scary, or intimidating, and you might find yourself with a variety of questions: How should I hold a cigar? How should I cut a cigar? How do I know which cigar to choose? Do I need to take some sort of Lamaze class to learn how to puff?

What's What

Some say, "Potato," some say "Po-taught-o," some say, "Filler," some say, "Huh?" If you're not used to having a cigar in your mouth, some of the jargon - the Filler, the Binder, the Wrapper - may have you scratching your head in confusion.

In sum, the Filler is the cigar's soul, stuffed in the middle; it is essentially what the cigar is filled with. The Binder is made up of thick tobacco leaves and used to bind the Filler together. The Wrapper is the outside leaf of the cigar. Basically the cigar's wardrobe, the Wrapper is an extremely important outfit for two reasons: it holds everything together and it provides a lot of the cigar's flavor.

Stogie Selection

Buying a cigar from a reputable dealer, such as What's Knot to Love, will guarantee your purchase is premium. Once you've chosen a dealer, the art of cigar buying becomes a bit free form: there are very few set rules. It is, however, good to keep in mind that the darker the tobacco, the stronger the flavor.

Make the Cut

There are a million different ways to cut a cigar - use a knife, use cigar scissors, use a V-cutter, or, if your cigar has been found guilty of crime during the French Revolution, use a guillotine cut. It's your cigar, so cut it anyway you want - even use a circular saw or your teeth, just make sure no one is watching.

After deciding how you're going to cut your cigar, you need to know where to cut it. Cutting off the cigar's head, the general rule is to slice the cigar just past the shoulder (where it stops being round).

Puff, the Magic Dragging

To light a cigar, simply hold it out and allow the flame of the match or the odorless lighter to meet its end. Turn the cigar, rotating it so that the end becomes evenly charred.

Once the cigar is lit, and take off has commenced, let the smoke wallow near your mouth, drinking in the aroma and the flavor. Gently puff on the cigar, instead of inhaling like a cigarette.

Holding Time

Most people recommend that you don't hold your cigar like a cigarette, unless you are European (I know, it doesn't seem fair that the Europeans got sexy accents, the Spice Girls AND cigar holding). For the rest of you, a cigar should be held between your index finger and thumb.

Size Matters

When it comes to cigars, the length of the ash is important. You should allow your ash to grow to around three quarters of an inch long, which will inevitably turn into two feet during locker room talk. A lengthy ash is vital to a good smoking experience. The ash creates an air block, which helps decrease the temperature of the smoke and results in a slower burning cigar. These factors intensify the taste and make the experience more enjoyable.

Once a cigar is smoked halfway, let it die: it's served its purpose so bid it a fond farewell with a tip of your hat and a "It's been nice smoking you." Then, go on your way.

Now rest, and smoke, assured, just knowing these few tips will have you looking like Groucho Marx in no time, except with better trimmed eyebrows.

Jennifer Jordan is an editor and staff writer for http://www.whatsknottolove.com. At home in a design firm in Denver, Colorado, she writes articles specific to the finer things in life.

Smokin'! All About Cigars

You might have seen it in the movies, or in TV shows, or on the cover of a gangster novel. The big boss - be he a mafia don, drug lord, or your plain, run-of-the-mill CEO - is sporting a large cigar, and is smoking it unaffectedly. He seems to like it, that tight, large wad of smoke and leaves. But what makes cigars so prized, and why is it often associated with wealth and business?

Very simply, a cigar is a rolled-up heap of dried, fermented tobacco. One end is lit with fire, and the other is the opening by which smoke can enter a user's mouth. Cigar tobacco is special: its flavor is reputedly richer and deeper than the tobacco used for ordinary cigarettes. Such tobacco is grown in tropical countries, with Brazil, Cuba, Honduras, and Mexico leading the pack. Cuban cigars, in particular, are considered to be the best varieties, although experts contend that Nicaraguan and Honduran cigars easily rival the mighty Cuban.

Cigars were once extremely expensive, and were usually confined to banquets, where "smokers" were held. These were gatherings where important politicians convened to discuss important issues while they smoked. When the U.S. imposed a trade embargo on Cuba in the 20th century, the price of cigars rose much higher, and the use of them was confined to those who could afford them.

In mid-2005, however, cigar prices declined, allowing many smokers (and smoking beginners) to taste and enjoy cigar smoking. But what is there to enjoy in cigars? According to aficionados, cigars have less of the smoky taste of cigarettes, and can even take on the taste of whisky, chocolate, or even wine!

How are cigars made? Choice tobacco leaves are first harvested, then aged by a combination of heat and shade. This serves to lower the leaves' water and sugar content, without causing leaves to rot. Once the dried leaves are ready, they are made to "die with grace" by a slow process of fermentation. During this time, humidity levels and temperature are controlled, such that the lea will ferment without disintegrating or rotting. In this critical period are ushered out of the leaves the flavors and aroma that characterize the cigar into which it will eventually be made.

When fermentation is done, leaves are sorted out depending on whether they will be used as filler for the cigar, or as wrapper. Leaves must be kept moist, and should be handled very carefully. As soon as they are sorted, a cigar maker will roll them into any of the various cigar shapes, carefully, and by hand.

The flavor of a cigar depends on the leaves used for its wrapper and filler. Wrapper leaves usually come from the widest part of a tobacco plant. Their color can range from the very light, mildly greenish brown shade called the Double Claro; to the oily, black Oscuro grown in Nicaragua, Mexico, Cuba, or Brazil. The color of a wrapper also describes the color of a cigar.

Most of a cigar is made up of fillers, or the interior, where smoking tobacco leaves are bundled together by elastic leaves called binders. Some cigar makers mix up a variety of leaves of various tastes and strengths, in order to produce different flavors of cigar.

To keep their flavor, cigars should be stored at room temperature, but at relatively high humidity. A humidor, or a special wooden box, usually comes with cigars when they are purchased.

Although most certainly damaging to human health, cigars still retain their mystique, whether they are seen on the silver screen, or read about in books.

Khieng 'Ken' Chho - Online Cigar Resources. For more, visit Ken's website: http://cigars.1w3b.net/

Lights Out: When a Cigar Turns Bad

There are truths in life that we are forced to swallow, no matter how much they might make us choke. For cigar lovers, one of these truths can often be found lurking in the darkness, peering out from behind fire hydrants and rose bushes in hopes of not being seen. Yet, it cannot hide forever; every person who smokes on a regular basis is bound to discover this dismal reality: there is such a thing as a bad cigar.

I know this is hard to hear for you, the cigar lover. A person who reveres cigars, placing them on pedal stools and allowing them to ride shotgun in your car as your family crams in the back seat, you might find yourself in shock at this fact. But, before you begin rocking silently in the corner, keep in mind that bad cigars are pretty easy to find: faulty stogies don't need to be placed in a police line up in order to be spotted. The following are some tips to help you know when a cigar isn't worth being lit:

You bought it at the local grocery store: It's important to keep in mind that good cigars are not typically sold at the local market, placed in between the Juicy Fruit gum and the double A batteries. They are also not sold for only two or three dollars. When you purchase a cigar for 2.50 from a Piggy Wiggly's, that cigar will taste like a cigar for 2.50 from Piggy Wiggly's. To avoid this, splurge a little and only purchase cigars from places that don't also have an entire aisle dedicated to incontinence.

Your cigar is so dry it makes the Sahara look damp: Does your cigar ever have that not so fresh feeling? If it does, one reason may be because it does not contain enough humidity, a problem that leaves a cigar dry and stale. When a cigar dries out, it's hard to save. This is because the cigar has lost many of its essential oils, losing its flavor in the process. However, if the cigar isn't too dry, it may be possible to revive it by placing it in a humidor and gradually increasing the humidity. If the cigar is so dry that the wrapper has begun to crack and peel, the only thing you can really save is time, by throwing the cigar away. To avoid this dryness from happening, be sure to keep your cigars stored properly inside a balanced humidor.

Your cigar smells bad: When things smell bad, they usually taste bad; these two senses just kind of go hand in hand. For this reason, smelling a cigar before lighting it is a good way to prevent a bad smoking experience. If you notice something off about the odor - it smells stale, moldy, or just plain awful - chances are the cigar will be a bad smoke. This is a great trick to use before purchasing particular stogies: listening to your nose can prevent you from spending money on a cigar not worth buying.

You suspect they are imitations: Nearly every city has a vendor selling cigars whose authenticity they will attest to, swearing on a stack of tobacco leaves. While they can promise all they want, the proof is in the pudding, or in this case, the puffing. Nothing will ruin a cigar tasting experience like an imitation cigar; it will do to smoking what "I Can't Believe It's Not Butter" did to toast. Luckily, fake cigars are usually fairly easy to spot. There are three main things to watch out for: cigars with an inexpensive price that seems too good to be true, cigars that are damaged, or a cigar vendor that seems over eager to make a sale. Watching out for these three thing can help keep you from purchasing an imitation cigar, thus keeping you from inhaling a bad smoke.

Your Cigar Tastes Like Dirt: Cigars can embody several different flavors. They can taste like Earth or spice. Perhaps they can even taste like chicken. But, no matter what, they should never taste like dirt. Dirt, is just not a popular flavor. If a cigar happens to taste stale, musty, or like you are scoping soil from the garden and placing the shovel in your mouth, you will know you are smoking a cigar that has gone bad or a cigar that is was born bad.

Most cigars are not faulty. But every now and then a bad one may pop up. Sometimes you may be able to spot them, other times you may realize they are flawed a puff too late. When this happens, the only solution is to get back up on the horse: find another cigar, and try again.

Jennifer Jordan is an editor and staff writer for http://www.whatsknottolove.com. At home in a design firm in Denver, Colorado, she writes articles specific to the finer things in life.

The Cigar Box Guitar

Music and cigars aren't something I usually equate with each other. In fact, cigars are almost the last type of smoke I think of when I turn the dial of the radio. If I hear Ryan Adams, I imagine him on stage surrounded by a grayish cloud, a cigarette dangling from his mouth. If I hear Bing Crosby, I imagine that his White Christmas also involves a black pipe. And, if I hear Willie Nelson, I think of a type of smoke sure to make him hungry for some Kenny Rogers Roasters. Cigars, however, don't typically cross my mind when I think of music.

It turns out this is a misconception on my part: cigars, or rather their boxes, contain some of the true roots of music.

Cigar box guitars are homemade guitars where used cigar boxes serve as the resonator, echoing the vibrations that cause sound. Used by many poverty stricken musicians, these instruments forever have a place in the history of song. In fact, cigar box guitars go all the way back to the 19th century.

Before 1840, according to the curator of the National Cigar Museum, Dr. Tony Hyman, cigars were not shipped in boxes but large crates, crates that would hold over 100 cigars at a time. These crates were found to be too big in size for efficient shipping and were eventually reduced into smaller crates that would hold much fewer sticks. And so, the cigar box was born.

About the time cigar boxes emerged, cigar smoking did as well: people from all walks of life indulged, leaving their cigar boxes empty in the process. Picked up by innovators and creators, these empty cigar boxes were quickly turned into guitars, banjos, and fiddles. Unbeknownst at the time, these instruments would soon give those who were too poor to afford a guitar a chance to experiment musically.

The earliest known cigar box instrument is believed to have been concocted during the Civil war. This is based on the discovery of a drawing by Edwin Forbes, a French artist working for the Union Army. This drawing features two soldiers sitting around a campfire, one watching the other play a cigar box fiddle.

Eras marked by poverty saw cigar box instruments, particularly cigar box guitars, begin to flourish. Both the blues movement and the emergence of jug bands are believed to have been facilitated, at least in part, by cigar box guitars and the Great Depression, leaving so many people broke and out of work, became a catalyst for these homemade instruments.

During these times, many people couldn't afford guitars so they simply made their own. Using cigar boxes, screen wire and broom handles, as well as anything else they could find, countless children made playable instruments. Since these instruments were made by so many different people, they had many different varieties. Some cigar box guitars had one string, some had three or four. Some had frets up the neck, some did not. Some of the creators built their guitar and simply moved on, some grew up to be the trail blazers of rock and roll.

Among the notable musicians believed to have played cigar box guitars at some point are Carl Perkins, Jimi Hendrix, George Benson, Ted Nugent, BB King, and Ed King of Lynyrd Skynyrd.

Part of so much of our nation's musical past, the cigar box guitar has an entire museum dedicated to it. The National Cigar Box Guitar Museum is located in York, Pennsylvania and features a wide display of various cigar box guitars as well as the stories of the legendary musicians who played them.

Jennifer Jordan is an editor and staff writer for http://www.whatsknottolove.com. At home in a design firm in Denver, Colorado, she writes articles specific to the finer things in life.

Scent Of A Woman: Original Motion Picture Soundtrack

No Description Available.
Genre: Soundtracks & Scores
Media Format: Compact Disk
Rating:
Release Date: 19-JAN-1993

Price: $11.98

Click here to buy from Amazon

Cigar Cutters - Making the Cut in a Prestigious Culture

Cigarette smokers usually puff away during breaks at work, drives to the grocery store, or yard work at home. Whereas cigarette smoking is typically a pastime, cigar smoking is a culture. People usually smoke cigars during special occasions, whether it is to celebrate a first child, seal a business deal, or enjoy a night of poker with one's buddies. Further proof of how firmly entrenched cigar smoking is in the American culture is the fact that Red Auerbach lighted a ceremonial cigar after his Boston Celtics won yet another basketball championship. Then, there's the wide circulation of cigar magazines like "Cigar Aficionado" in newsstands. These periodicals include features such as cigar ratings, international tobacconists, and cigar-friendly restaurants. Considering how popular cigar smoking is, it is, thus, only fitting to pay homage to cigar cutters in much the same way tobacco aficionados pay their respects to the almighty Cuban. After all, cigar smoking begins with a cigar cutter's snip of the tobacco product.

Cigar Hall of Fame

One reason cigar smoking has become more popular than ever could be the possibility that compared to cigarette smoking, cigar smoking is less dangerous to one's health. The reason is that when one smokes cigar, one does not inhale its smoke. Perhaps this explains how comedian George Burns, a lifetime cigar smoker, reached the ripe old age of 100 years! Other famous personalities who have become icons due in part to their cigar smoking include:

* Larger-than-life British leader Winston Churchill, after whom a cigar size was named.

* Austrian Psychiatrist Sigmund Freud, who often smoked during sessions with his patients.

* American author Mark Twain, who claimed that he smoked whenever he was awake.

* Comedy actor Groucho Marx, who often smoked a short, thick cigar.

Cigars Have a Past (And a Future)

Comedian George Burns, who used cigars to time his routine, served as the unofficial face of cigar smokers. While that face has become much more diverse in recent times, the essence of cigar smoking has remained unchanged. Cigars are often linked to celebrations of good luck and little triumphs. While they have historically been considered as a rich person's pastime, cigars have increasingly become more common in modern culture. Also, you have probably heard of the phrase, "close, but no cigar." Do you know where this expression comes from? The origin of the saying is the practice of saving a cigar as a good luck charm, in hopes of winning a bet made.

Cigar Characters

Other cigar legends involve people rather than activities. For example, English King Edward VII loved smoking cigars despite opposition from his mother. One story reveals that after his mother passed away, King Edward regally announced to his male guests, "Gentleman, you may smoke." It should be noted that they probably used knives rather than cigar cutters. In King Edward's honor, an American brand of cigars was named after him.

Another cigar legend is shown in the American sitcom show "Seinfeld." A character, Kramer, is frequently shown smoking a cigar. In the 1992 movie "Scent of a Woman," Lieutenant Colonel Frank Slade orders his assistant to purchase a particular brand of cigars, which he knows will be hard as nails to find.

Making the Cut

The variety of cigar cutters available creates a legend of its own. Cigar cutters vary in size and color, ranging from portable to desktop, and from red to blue. Other cutters have multiple functions, and are paired with other tools such as key rings, portable knife sets, or money clips. When choosing cigar cutters, it is wise to first consider your needs.

In many respects, cigars have become as common in modern culture as the Internet and reality TV. Choosing the right cigar cutters further adds to the style and experience of cigar smoking.

Get your own cigar cutter today!

Visit our site and choose from a wide range of humidors and cigarette cases.

General Cigar Donation will support Ducks Unlimited Gulf Coast Habitat restoration efforts

Richmond, VA — Donated General Cigar day $ 20,000 to the Ducks Unlimited (DU) on behalf of the international Premium Cigar and Pipe Retailers Association (IPCPR). The donation will support the DUS habitat restoration efforts along the coast to the Gulf of Mexico.

"The city of New Orleans and the Gulf region has been gracious hosts to IPCPR, and we felt it was important to assist the region in their time of need," commented Debo Mukherjee, Vice President of marketing for General Cigar. "We chose to represent this category for premium cigar by contributing to the Ducks unlimited because we value their long-term commitment to help restore coastal wetlands in the Gulf Coast, and because we are particularly satisfied with their response to the oil slick. "

"IPCPR and General Cigar generous donation will help us to continue efforts habitat restoration in the Gulf Coast wetlands," said Philip Milburn, head of marketing and corporate relations at you.-it is a challenge that we have committed to more than 20 years. General Cigar support will go a long way in helping to finance programs critical to the restoration, enhancement and protection of Gulf Coast remaining coastal wetlands. "

Approaching the fall waterfowl migrations, millions of ducks, geese and other migratory birds will head toward the Gulf Coast.In a few years, have as many as 13 million ducks and geese wintered in the region of 1.5 million Gulf Coast; despite efforts to preserve the Ducks unlimited and its partners continue this region losing an area about the size of a football field all 30 minutes.Louisiana only has already lost more than 1 million hectares of coastal wetlands.

General Cigar's commitment to support the coastal route out restoration derives from its extensive corporate citizenship program is underwritten by the company, since 1992, General Cigar actively provided agricultural and environmental aid in the Dominican Republic and Honduras, where the company's premium cigars handcrafts.

NOTE TO NEW ORLEANS MEDIA:

Managers from General Cigar to make a formal check box presentation to representatives of Ducks unlimited on Tuesday, August 10 at 9: 15 PM, Generation Hall (310 Andrew Higgins drive) in New Orleans.Representatives of both companies will be available for interviews in New Orleans on Thursday, August 12.

If General Cigar

General Cigar co. Inc., a subsidiary of Swedish Match, manufactures and markets for premium cigars craft market.Burning delivers cigars of the finest quality, General Cigar producing Macanudo ® and Partagas ®, Cohiba ®, bonfire, Excalibur ®, Hoyo de Monterrey ®, La Gloria Cubana ® and several other industry-leading brands, which are sold through tobacco shops nationwide.In addition, the company grows its own proprietary Connecticut Shade wrapper tobacco, as well as natural and candela wrapper in the Dominican Republic; General Cigar Club Macanudo ® also operates, a cigar bar in New York; For more information, visit www.cigarworld.com

If Ducks Unlimited

Ducks Unlimited is the world's largest wetland and waterfowl conservation, Ducks Unlimited is the world's largest non-profit organization in order to conserve North America's constantly disappearing waterfowl habitats. Established in 1937, Ducks Unlimited conserved for more than 12 million hectare thanks to contributions from more than one million supporters across the continent. guided by science, and dedicated to the programme efficiency, work toward the vision of wetlands sufficient to fill the skies with waterfowl today, tomorrow and forever, if you want to know more visit www.ducks.org.

Popularity: 1% [?]

View the original article here

Cigar Accessories: Light Up With Class

You are one of the star employees in your company. And, because you've made a huge contribution in closing a huge deal, he has invited you to his house for dinner. When you entered his well-furnished den, you recognized some familiar faces. Tonight, you will be dining with your company's biggest shareholders. And, the thought was very appealing to you.

After being introduced to them, they invited you to have a cigar with them. You eagerly accepted your offer because your boss is known to have a very good taste when it comes to cigars. You immediately bit off a chunk of the cigar and lit it. "That's not how you do it, son!" The man took out a cigar, lifted a cigar cutter from the different cigar accessories available on the table and gently snipped off the tip of his cigar before he lit it.

For the first time, you noticed that there was a bunch of cigar accessories on the table. And, you couldn't help but feel crude and uneducated among a group of cultured and refined individuals. You gave the older man an awkward smile and found yourself a space on your host's lush sofa. It looks like you need to learn more about the art of cigar smoking. Here is a list of things that you need to know about cigar accessories. Knowing these would separate you from the inexperienced cigar smokers.

The Art of Storing Cigars

Humidors are very important cigar accessories. Without one, your cigars would lose their moisture and you would end up with a very stale and bitter drag. Most humidors come with a hygrometer and a humidification system because the taste of most cigars becomes better in a certain humidity level and temperature. If the environment in the humidor is too dry, you will end up with dry cigars that are very fragile. They also burn faster than the cigars that are stored in the correct humidity level and temperature. If the humidity level is too high, on the other hand, the cigar can rot and become moldy.

Because the humidity level is a very important factor that you need to take note of when storing a cigar, you should always calibrate the hygrometer. You can do this by removing the hygrometer from the humidor and wrapping it in a moistened cloth and adjusting it to 96% humidity.

Cutting Your Cigar With Poise

Instead of tearing the tip of the cigar off with your teeth, you should start using a cigar cutter. It will separate you from the inexperienced cigar smokers.

Portable Storage

If you're the type of person who always wants to have a cigar in his pocket wherever he goes, getting a cigar tube is a great idea. This cigar accessory will help you keep your cigar fresh while you're on the go.

These are some of the things that you should remember before you smoke another cigar.

In need of cigar accessories? Visit ExecutiveGiftShoppe.com! You can also choose from a selection of Colibri lighters and hip flasks.

2010 IPCPR Updates

I could not make it to IPCPR Trade Show this year. So be sure to check out Stogie Guys and the review of the Stogie for the latest updates on the Trade Show.

Popularity: 3% [?]Tagged as: cigars, IPCPR, News

View the original article here

Xikar HC serie Habano Colorado Grande

Matt and I walked through this cigar a while back, but in a different size. Xikar recently expanded the size of the cigar to the new Grande 6 x 60. Before you ask … Yes sometimes play a role. You can take the same cigar blend and Churchill will differ from Lancero or Robusto.

That is why I was happy when Jerry, Bob and David from Xikar offered to send me some samples of the new Grande size.I was curious to see if size affects the taste of this line; I still have to examine the HC series Criollo and Connecticut in the new size, so stay tuned for that.

For more info about Xikar, and their HC series cigars, check out their informative homepage. as always tries I pair this cigar with water.

Wrapper: Habano Colorado

Book: Esteli

Filler: Costa Rica, Jalapa Honduras

Size: Grande 6 x 60

Price: $ 9.50

Pre-Smoke & Construction:

The dark wrapper looked nice, with an oily sheen and minimal veins.The smell comes out from the wrapper was sweet with mild spice. Foot had a mild barnyard-ish odour, which is not bad. The cigar was overall very fast and even packed. A draw was ever so something properly, but fell in my tolerances to be good. On pre-light a draw was a sweet natural tobacco.

The ashes are held for about 1.5 inches, and the burn list requires some minor touch-up's

Taste:

The first had a slightly woody taste that decreased in strength as the time went.Through the nose, I detect a pepper is not too strong, but it had a nice little zing to it.Taste was a smooth earthy nature of tobacco.

 

In the second third seemed overall taste profile really come together and smooths. Smoke rose relatively little; a nice sweetness entered the profile that you want, and sometimes it resembled the glaze.Signs of woodiness lasted in the background, and coffee notes would come and go.When passing through the nose, a piece of cake, pepper is still there.It had a nice kick that what not excessive.Later, it took on a sweet, almost cinnamony feeling. Taste was sweet and slightly creamy.

The last third had some differences compared with the 2nd third; the overall profile as the taste of mocha-ish tastes sometimes.On the other, draw was a mixture of woody notes, coffee and pepper.Some draw had a creamy feeling, others had a dry, fresh feeling.Smoke cover your mouth and tongue with a sweet flavour.Blowing smoke through the nose, as you know, sweet and peppery spice.

Conclusion:

Let's get this out of way first … you haters think perhaps I succumb to Xikar because I got these cigars for free; Also Xikar has been good for me for a long time, I know they only give honest opinions; that is, of course, all this Web site is a place to speak about cigars; I am quite sure that they would want nothing to do with me if I would be.

Of course, Grande was similar to the smaller size Matt and I reviewed last year; there were some slight differences but (you need to look at the second review comparing). Grande seemed more of a ramp up period, if it is meaningful.

What it boils down to is if you think about cigars in this ring gauge; I thought it was a damn good upper medium to full wheel smoke. Tastes was good, and there was no harshness or a bad thing; This slow burner is worth a try, and I give it a thumbs. Thanks again to Jerry, David and all from Xikar to send these cigars for me!

Published: Cigar reviews tags: colorado, grande, habano, hydrocarbons, series, Xikar

This entry was posted on Monday, October 4th, 2010 at 12: 00 am and is filed under Cigar reviews, you can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed you can leave a response, or trackback from your own website.

View the original article here

The Right Choice In Montecristo Cigars

Altadis U.S.A. make Montecristo cigars, a popular company with a good reputation for the finest cigars. One of the largest cigar company's in the world, they started operations in 1918. Along with all the accusations and mergers, they gained their status of the world’s largest cigar company. A few more top brands from Altadis are:

• Romeo Y Julieta

• Don Diego

• Turrent

• Trinidad

The Montecristo cigars are the most recognized trademark in the world. Here are some of the different kinds of Montecristo cigars:

• Montecristo cigars- this cigar originated from Cuba and now have production in the Dominican. A medium to full flavored cigar that has a sweet aroma.

• Montecristo cigars classic- this cigar uses the Connecticut wrapper, Dominican wrapper and filler while being masterly blended.

• Montecristo cigar platinum series- this cigar uses the San Andres Cubano wrapper from Mexico, a binder from Nicaraguan and a blend of Dominican, Nicaraguan and Peruvian fillers.

• Montecristo cigars white cigars- this cigar uses the Connecticut wrapper, a Nicaraguan binder and a Dominican and Nicaraguen filler. A smooth flavored with an easy draw.

You can visit the Montecristo cigars website at [http://www.montecristo.com] or at the manufacturer’s website http://www.altadisusa.com. If you need to find the best of the best, these websites offer you a way to find these Montecristo cigars and have them delivered to your doorstep. You can also see the many reviews the cigar has received and see just what others have to say.

You can buy Montecristo cigars online from other retailers or wholesalers as well. Here are a few websites that carry the worlds leading brand of Montecristo cigars:

• http://www.famous-smoke.com

• http://www.tophatcigar.com

• http://www.smokes-spirits.com

• http://www.cigarsinternational.com

• http://www.jrcigars.com

These cigars are considered a great cigar in all circles as people find these cigars more of a classier cigar. The connoisseurs love the special blends and the lovely taste that comes from the Montecristo cigars. With all the different lines of cigars, you can mix, match, and have a different taste every time you light up. As some cigar smokers do, keep some cigars close buy and just take one and light it without knowing what flavor it is, this will surprise you every time you do.

You can also find more info on Handmade Cigars [http://www.onlinecigarsource.com/Handmade_Cigars/] and Honduran Cigars [http://www.onlinecigarsource.com/Honduran_Cigars/]. Onlinecigarsource.com is a comprehensive resource to know more about Cigars.

Ybor City: The History of Cigars in America

There are many places in the world that are seemingly built for cigars, places with factories and roads paved of tobacco, places where leaves blossom freely and cigars are always lit. One of these places is Ybor City. Known now as a hotspot for bars and nightclubs, Ybor City was once known as the Cigar Capital of the World.

Ybor City is a historic district in Tampa, Florida. It was named after Vincent Martinez Ybor, a Spaniard who immigrated to Cuba at the age of 14. Starting off as a cigar salesman, Vincent Ybor eventually began to manufacturer the cigars he previously sold: he started his own cigar factory in Havana. But, this time in Havana was a time of unrest, and a time on the brink of a war. As the Cuban Revolution raged, Vincent Ybor moved his factory and his workers to Key West, Florida.

The success of the relocation fluctuated: Ybor's business was profitable, but labor and transportation problems kept true success evasive. A friend of Ybor, Gavino Guiterrez, convinced him to investigate Tampa as a place to set up cigar roots. Tampa offered the climate, the water, and the transportation necessary for a productive operation.

Ybor was sold on the Tampa idea and purchased a large acreage of land in 1886 and not only started a business, but started a town. This area, built for the purpose of housing Ybor's factories and his factory workers, became fittingly known as Ybor City.

Following the lead of Ybor, other cigar manufacturers moved to this area and by the close of the 19th Century, Ybor City and Tampa had the honor of being the largest cigar manufacturer in the world. Not to be outdone by the expansion of the industry it held, the area itself also saw a population boom as well. When Ybor City was incorporated by Tampa into municipality, the population shot up to 3000, three years later that number nearly doubled.

It was truly home to the cigar industry. Most of the residents made their living making cigars and those who weren't rollers often found jobs in a cigar-related trade. Some made cigar boxes and some made cigar bands, others owned restaurants where "No Smoking" signs never hanged from the window. It was also a melting pot of cultures, home to a variety of Spanish, Italian, African and Cuban immigrants. For many, English was a second language. It was this diversity of groups that grabbed onto the cigar industry, setting the culturist tempo of a worldly luxury.

As more factories were built, Ybor City became the headquarters for cigar production, out producing even Havana. At the center of this was Ybor - he offered aid and monetary gain to reel manufacturers in from Cuba. By the 1900's, Ybor City was known as the "Cigar Capital of the World."

Ybor City continued to grow and prosper, but the world around it did not. The Great Depression, the popularity of cigarettes, the prevalence of organized crime in the area, and the introduction of cigar-rolling machinery all led to Ybor City's demise. This was compounded when the owners of machine made cigars started a "Spit Campaign," a campaign stating that saliva from the cigar rollers often found its way into a finished cigar. This drastically hurt the businesses based on hand rolling cigars and by the 1930's, as machines replaced workers and Cubans went back to their homeland, Ybor City was the capital no more.

There was an attempt to preserve the history and culture of the area. Presently, it's one of only three National Historic Landmarks districts in Florida. A place still worth visiting, it is not longer the cigar Mecca it once was; the ashes of its previous life were laid to rest in a permanent part of cigar history.

Jennifer Jordan is an editor and staff writer for http://www.whatsknottolove.com. At home in a design firm in Denver, Colorado, she writes articles specific to the finer things in life.

I Hate shaving

Long after the holiday for a week and avoid razor for a little over a week, I do not look forward ripping my face. I have used a Gillette Fusion for a while and find it an acceptable razor, to cleaning, in substance, is a pain. Because I want to shave my head and face on a daily basis, I have tried to find something better. They all received a razor they absolutely love?

Popularity: 2% [?]Tagged as: razors, readers advice, shaving

View the original article here

Boveda Humidifier 69%

Boveda's 2-way humidity control is the only technology that can be pre-formulated to a specific humidity level with an accuracy of +/-2%. Boveda guarantees a constant level of humidity that never fluctuates or cycles. It also eliminates bacteria, mold or mildew. You will never have to use distilled water or PG solution again. Use one packet for every 50 cigars your humidor can hold, plus one additional packet (for example, 2 packets for a 50 cigar humidor, 3 packets for a 100 cigar humidor). Each set will last 3 months in most humidors.

Price: $4.00

Click here to buy from Amazon

Becoming a True Cigar Connoisseur

Like most people, you may be tired of being a novice, an amateur, a beginner. You may long for something bigger, hoping to become a well seasoned veteran of a particular area, a title that gives you gusto, gives you credence, and gives other people the impression that you know what you are talking about. This aspiration may be particularly true when it comes to smoking, as you fervently wait for the moment when you can not only tell people about your days as a hand model or the time your dissertation on the mating rituals of sea horses received the highest marks, but you can also throw in that you, yes little ol' you, are a cigar connoisseur.

But, how do you accomplish this goal? You may have smoked tobacco for years, investing time and money, and actually answering when the pipes, the pipes, are calling. You may have started smoking cigars at any early age, moving from the bubblegum stogies you puffed on the playground to the real thing. You may be the first to present a friend with a box of Cubans upon the birth of his child, but you still don't consider yourself a connoisseur; you just don't know that much about cigars. So, what should you do to learn?

Try a Variety of Cigars

There is nothing like hands-on-experience to help people learn. By trying a variety of cigars, you not only learn what you like, but you learn what you don't. While this is obviously based on your opinion - a cigar that you hate may be one another smoker loves - this trial and error exposes you to a variety of cigars, which is the number one factor in becoming a connoisseur. Even if you have a favorite cigar, and prefer to smoke it regularly, every once in a while go out on a limb and smoke something different. And, when those with expert cigar taste suggest that you try something, appease them. You might be pleasantly surprised.

Read Books and Learn the History

Another key in "Operation: Connoisseur" is learning and educating yourself on the history and culture of cigars. On Amazon.com alone there are several cigar books discussing what every smoker needs to know to reach connoisseur status. In addition, there are books you can read and websites you can visit demonstrating the rich history of cigars. From Christopher Columbus to Bill Clinton, cigars have always been a part of American culture. The Internet and local libraries are filled with this information. Read anything from a website listing fun cigar trivia, to a reference book discussing how tobacco was part of Native American culture, learning and knowing as much you can.

Visit Cigar Shops

You will likely never find a better cigar expert than the person standing behind the counter in the local cigar store. Cigars are these people's passion, not to mention source of income, and they usually know more about cigars than a cigar knows about itself. What's more, cigar shop owners are so into cigars that they will gladly field questions, make suggestions, or just provide information. From what cigar goes with what wine to how long you should age a certain brand, cigar shop owners know it all, and by listening to them, you will too.

Join a Cigar Club

Most Cigar Clubs on the Internet come with a warning that Cigar Clubs are only for those who are serious about cigars: if you're going to make fun of the cigar, placing a "Kick Me" sign on its back when it's not looking, a Cigar Club isn't for you. However, if you are legit about becoming a cigar connoisseur, then a Cigar Club is a great thing to join. Not only will Cigar Clubs expose you to a lot of variety, but they choose the cigar for you, exposing you only to the finest selection of cigars around. Along these lines, they also offer you newsletters, corporate cigar gifts, accessories, and promotions. As far as learning goes, a Cigar Club is kind of like an at-home study course, a course you can learn a lot from if you put in a little effort.

When it comes down to it, the term "Connoisseur" shouldn't be used lightly: a lot of people may say they are connoisseurs when they are really stuck somewhere between novice and expert, stuck in a Purgatory of knowledge. But, becoming a true cigar connoisseur isn't impossible, and it's actually not even that hard. It just takes a little effort and, lucky for you, a lot of smoking.

Jennifer Jordan is an editor and staff writer for http://www.whatsknottolove.com. At home in a design firm in Denver, Colorado, she writes articles specific to the finer things in life.

ExOfficio Women's Insect Shield Ziwa Convertible Pant

The ExOfficio Women?s Insect Shield Ziwa Convertible Pant answers your call for the ultimate pant for backpacking, hiking, fishing, or any other outdoor adventure. Not only does the lightweight, quick-drying Ziwa easily convert into a short with the pull of a zipper, but it provides UPF 30+ protection from the scorching sun. The wrinkle-resistant Ziwa?s the ideal pant to travel in, and the odorless Insect Shield repels those pesky mosquitoes when on the trail.

Product Features

• Material: 100% Nylon
• Fit: Regular
• Inseam: [Pants] 32in (81.28cm); [Shorts] 10in (25.4cm)
• Leg Opening:
• Waist: Belt loops
• Rise:
• Pockets: 2 Front, 1 security, 1 leg, 1 cell
• Fly:
• Gusseted Crotch:
• UPF Rating: 30+
• Recommended Use: Fly fishing, hiking, backpacking, camping
• Manufacturer Warranty: Lifetime

Price: $84.95

Click here to buy from Amazon

Cigar Companion Interactive

It's A Boy Bubble Gum Cigar 36 Pack is ideal for the classic birth announcements. The daddy or mommy will love handing these out.Contains a delicious fruit flavor.

Price:

Click here to buy from Amazon

Formerly the Warlocks Box: October 8 & 9, 1989 (6 CD Set)

In October 1989, the folks who were lucky enough to score tickets for the "Warlocks" shows in Hampton were treated to two of the most exciting shows of the year. Every song was recorded with the state-of-the-art Le Mobile remote recording truck and recently mastered to HDCD specifications, so needless to say, it sounds like you're there, in the best seats in the house.

The Hampton "Warlocks" box collects every note of the band's two "stealth" shows spread over six CDs. This collector's set comes packaged in a wooden replica of a cigar box (Virginia being a tobacco state dating back to colonial times), and is filled with all sorts of goodies, from a photo-laden historical essay to various pieces of cool memorabilia from the time.

Track listing:

Disc 1

1. Foolish Heart

2. Walkin' Blues

3. Candyman

4. Me and My Uncle

5. Big River

6. Stagger Lee

7. Queen Jane Approximately

8. Bird Song

9. Promised Land

Disc 2

1. Help On The Way

2. Slipknot!

3. Franklin's Tower

4. Victim or the Crime

5. Eyes of the World

6. Rhythm Devils

Disc 3

1. Space>

2. I Need A Miracle

3. The Wheel

4. Gimme Some Lovin'

5. Morning Dew

6. We Bid You Goodnight

Disc 4

1. Feel Like A Stranger

2. Built To Last

3. Little Red Rooster

4. Ramble On Rose

5. We Can Run

6. Jack-A-Roe

7. Stuck Inside of Mobile with the Memphis Blues Again

8. Row Jimmy

9. The Music Never Stopped

Disc 5

1. Playing In The Band

2. Uncle John's Band

3. Playing In The Band

4. Dark Star

5. Rhythm Devils

Disc 6

1. Space

2. Death Don't Have No Mercy

3. Dear Mr. Fantasy

4. Hey Jude

5. Throwing Stones

6. Good Lovin'

7. Attics of My Life

Price:

Click here to buy from Amazon

Nine West Tina Medium Shopper

Med Shopper

Price: $65.00

Click here to buy from Amazon

Jose Seijas-Mi South

Thanks to the guys at Tex cigars to send me cigar up for review today. From what I understand, this is the first Dominican puro from Altadis cigar giant. It was a little hype about the release of this cigar last year, so let see how the sizes today. As usual parade In this cigar with PUR filters the beautiful Florida tap water. Mmm …

Wrapper: Dominican

Bind/filler: Dominican

Size: Robusto 5 x 54

Price: around $ 8.00 pm

Pre-Smoke & Construction:

This was a very robust, stylish wrapper. There were discolorations and some medium veins in the whole; the smell of the wrapper was earthly bard lap, while the foot had notes, POO (it is not always bad, by the way). The cigar was tightly packed with small light spots in here and there. On pre-light a draw was good, with little resistance. Pre-light taste was sweet and soothing.

The burn list requires a couple of corrections and the ashes are held for an inch.

Taste:

The first third opens with soothing taste and a mild leathery aftertaste. It does not take a long time to change. The smoke became dry with a toasty feeling that gave me some cotton mouth.Dry mouth left me craving water, but it was not to the point that annoying.When retro-haling, I discovered a mild paprika which would dissipate quickly.

The other third kept the pleasant mild paprika, and just as before, it would dispel from flavour quickly. A very interesting sweetness enveloped in sweetness in the image.Actually, I find it hard to attach it to a joint tastes.Stage half way I started to notice notes of nuttiness.To dry smoke have remained but have begun to assume a thicker consistency.

The final third: The pepper remained, but was very very smooth with almost no one asked.The sweet unique spice combined with nuttiness and was the dominant taste; A mild taste back and take a leathery not very long to feel toasty smoke remained, but at the same time took on a creamy sensation.Taste was pleasant and coated on the inside of your mouth.

Conclusion:

This was a very good low-medium to medium-sized wheel cigar. While it started like any common cigar, the unique tastes of some interesting table. My taste was not far enough to pin down all taste; If I would complain, the price is a bit high, but it's a slow burner and took me approximately 1.5 hours to smoke; My assessment is ... Give it a try!

Published: Cigar reviews tags: jose seijas, midominicana,

This entry was posted on Friday, september 24th, 2010 at 12: 00 am and is filed under Cigar reviews, you can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed you can leave a response, or trackback from your own website.

View the original article here

Puff Cigar

"It looks like a real cigar, and when you blow through it, puffs of white smoke come out. Fool all your friends!"

Price: $14.95

Click here to buy from Amazon

Cigars: Smoking Your Cigar

Basic Tastes

The human tongue is able to determine 4 basic tastes : sweet, salted, acid and bitter. That's all ! The rest is a matter of flavor related to the sense of smell. When testing cigars, only sweetness, acidity and bitterness are concerned. A salted taste could be given by a chlorinated soil or fertilizer. In this case, the tobacco does not burn! If, by bad luck, there is a salted leaf in your cigar, you'll feel promptly nauseous ! Any tobacco buyer knows that and avoids purchasing such a material.

Taste and Flavor

Taste is discerned on the tongue, flavors with the nose. Almost everybody is able to perceive the four basic tastes (sweet, salted, acid and bitter). Flavors are another matter. Few people are gifted for discerning and recognizing flavors. Often, one can feel a flavor and not be able to name it. It is also matter of memory. It is possible to improve the sense of smell by specific training.

Discerning Flavors?

Some "experts", after having tested cigars, give a very esoteric description of their feelings. Do you often put your nose in a hare's hair? Probably not, so forget it! Just remember the flavors you meet and like in the nature : fruits, forest, spices for example, it is enough to enjoy your smoke.

3x8=6+8+10?

Understand that a average rating is something tricky! Let's imagine that 3 smokers are blind testing two cigars. The first cigar gets 3 times an 8 rating. The average is 8. The second cigar gets 6, 8 and 10. The average is 8 too. Are the cigars equivalent ?

Is The Cigar Good Or Bad?

Taste is a personal matter, and consequently, it is a subjective matter. As soon as a cigar is well constructed and can be smoked, everyone has the right to like it or not. A cigar you may like may not be enjoyable to others. You don't need to convince anyone that you are right using fancy words! Just say " I like it " or " I don't like it ". It'll show respect for other's opinions. A bad cigar is the one that makes you and others sick because of green or badly processed tobacco.

Be Humble!

The blind smoking test is one of the best traps that human brain has invented! It is a very good way to learn humbleness!

Testing Procedure

As soon as one speaks of taste, it involves subjectivity. The name, the brand, the ring, the color, the appearance of the cigar are going to affect your appreciation. Even the meal you just ate before smoking! Do you drink coffee or Cognac while smoking? Be cautious and critical about published tests and ratings, as long as the procedure is not clearly disclosed!

Formal or Casual?

There are two ways to organize smoking tests. The first one ("scientific") is to have all the smokers in the same place and keep them in the same environment for the smoking sessions. They receive a list of criteria to analyze and a form to quote their evaluation. In this case, external factors are minimized. You can make a statistical calculation and say what characteristic is significantly present in the cigar. The other way ("casual") is to have people in different places, smoking by themselves in their usual environment. As external factors are various and numerous, it is not possible to make any objective calculation and you just get tendencies, which are very helpful sometimes if you have to choose between two prototypes for a new product. But in both cases, if it is not a blind test, it is not valid.

Words and Meanings

To organize a "scientific" smoking panel, it is very important to be sure that all members speak the same language and put the same meaning behind the words. That may seem simple but it is not! You have to split the problem into small parts and train people using examples for each of these parts.

How Do I Light The Cigar?

To light your cigar, avoid gasoline lighters and sulfur matches which will give a bad taste. Do not heat the head too much, just a few puffs will do. If your cigar is well constructed, after a while the burning line should become even.

Should I Remove The Label?

Etiquette says that you should remove the band from the cigar before smoking it, but most people smoke with the band on, and that does not affect the taste! If you choose to remove the band, do it carefully. Check that the glue has not spread out on the wrapper, or it could be torn when removing the band. If in doubt, keep the band and enjoy your smoke.

Does A Meal Affect The Taste Of A Cigar?

We have noticed that smokers have a different perception of the same cigar depending on what they've eaten before smoking. A few years ago, I organized blind tests with a group, always the same people in the same room. The sessions were held just after lunch for everybody. Smoking again the same cigar at intervals, statistically, we noticed deviations in the results. Other external factors may have influenced our smokers, but it is very difficult to say.

How To Recognize The Taste And Type Of A Cigar?

You need to have accurate senses of taste and smell, and a very good memory. Some tobaccos have a very typical taste or aroma that you can memorize easily. Others are more difficult to identify and you need to train yourself longer. In fact, the first step is to smoke cigars made 100% with one single type of tobacco to grasp its own characteristics. After that, as cigars are a blend of different tobaccos, it becomes much more complex to detect each of the components. In 35 years, I have met only one guy who is able to do so (it's not me!). But the dominant tobacco in a blend is much easier to identify if you have had the opportunity to smoke these monotype cigars.

John Payne is the Publisher of Web Marketing Ezine, and the Founder of Enviro-Friendly Products.

Patrice Hirschfeld has spent a lifetime in Tobacco, and is the Proprietor of the Online Cigar Shop- Voila Cigars [http://www.voilacigars.com]. John provides Marketing Consultancy to Voila Cigars.

Coby CA-745 Wireless FM Car Transmitter with Digital Display and DC Car Cigarette Lighter Adapter

COBY CA745 WIRELESS FM TRANSMITTER WITH DIGITAL DISPLAYTRANSMITS MUSIC WIRELESSLY FROM AUDIO DEVICES;OVER FM FREQUENCY; IDEAL FOR MP3, CD & AUDIO PLAYBACK FROM OTHER PORTABLE DEVICES; FULL-RANGE FM FREQUENCY SETTINGS; LCD DISPLAY WITH BACKLIGHT; 3.5MM STEREO PLUG

Price: $17.99

Click here to buy from Amazon

Proactive cigar minder

Great Accessories For A More Enjoyable Golf Experience! Clicgear Push Cart Accessories Feature: Cigar Minder All purpose cigar clip for on-the-go Clips on golf cart or bag Cooler Tube Cold drink storage on the course Made of waterproof nylon and insulated and lined to keep drinks colder, longer Fits Clicgear model 1.0, 2.0, 3.0 carts and other carts with 1" tubing Includes Clicgear Accessory Tab for mounting Dimensions: 4.75" x 11" Cup Holder Additional drink storage on your cart Universal cup holder expands to fit just about any size drink Fits Clicgear model 1.0, 2.0, 3.0 carts and other carts with 1 tubing Includes Clicgear Accessory tab for easy mounting Rangefinder Bag Storage for your Rangefinder Waterproof nylon, insulation, and soft lining keep the device safe Zipper and magnetic flap closure offer quick access Dimensions: 5" x 2.5" x 6" Shoebrush The BRUSH Shoe Brush is great for days when the grass just won't let go Fits both Model 1.0 and Model 2.0 Carts and doesn't affect folding Snaps easily onto to either side rear wheel tubing struts Storage Hook The HOOK Storage Hanger is a great way to hang your Clicgear Cart out of the way when not in use Works great at home or at your local course Comes with mounting screws and instructions Wheel Cover Allows you to quickly cover up your wheels before loading your Clicgear Cart into your car or storage locker Comes with its own storage bag Fits both Clicgear Model 1.0 and Model 2.0 Carts Umbrella Adjuster Easily adjust the angle of your cart umbrella Adjusts to the front and back as well as side to side Raises umbrella approximately 3" higher than the standard umbrella holder Sand Bottle Conveniently holds sand for re-seeding divots Easily clips to cart (two separate mounting clips) Fits both Clicgear Model 1.0 and Model 2.0 Carts Enhance Your Award-Winning Clicgear Cart!

Price: $9.99

Click here to buy from Amazon

Fine Ashton Cigars

Fine Ashton cigars are one of the most well-known and respected names in the cigar world. Since 1985, Ashton has been creating fine cigars for aficionados worldwide. The result of the vision of Robert Levin, a second generation tobacconist from Philadelphia, Ashton has evolved in the last twenty years to become one of the premier cigar companies in the world. Most well known for the Ashton Classic, the Ashton Aged Maduro, the Ashton Vintage Cabinet Selection, Ashton VSG (Ashton Virgin Sun Grown) and Ashton Heritage Puro Sol, fine Ashton cigars are a pleasure to enjoy.

Fine Ashton cigars are offered in five very different and distinct blends. The broadest Ashton offering is the hand rolled premium cigar selection with thirteen sizes, delivering medium body and consistent long lasting taste. The Cabinet Selection, a Vintage Limited Edition as the name suggests, entails a tobacco "aging process" for the tobacco that is three to four years old and then aged for an additional year. It includes no less than six different tobaccos resulting in a rich, medium bodied complex tasting cigar available in eight sizes. The Ashton Aged Maduro is a naturally dark, sweet cigar which comes from proper fermenting and a never hurried aging of the wrapper giving this cigar its flavor and smoothness. Seven sizes of this superior maduro wrapped cigar are available.

The Ashton VSG (Virgin Sun Grown) was unveiled in November 1999 and was the most successful product introduction in Ashton's history. As the most successful of the fine Ashton cigars, the Ashton VSG was crafted with an unforgettable richness and potency. Its full-bodied flavor provides balance to the entire Ashton line of premium cigars. The VSG was an instant success and the Cigar Insider, a leading industry newsletter published by Cigar Aficionado, stated "...connoisseurs are seeking out the new Ashton Virgin Sun Grown with a fervor not seen in the industry for years..." It further reported a demand for the VSG "unequalled since the end of the cigar boom" several years ago and, after it conducted a taste test, the publication awarded the VSG with a 93 rating making it one of the highest ratings ever for a non-Cuban brand.

To create this great cigar, Ashton called on Carlos Fuente, Jr. of Tabacalera A. Fuente who worked for over two years to develop the VSG's incredible strength while keeping within the Ashton standards of excellence in taste, flavor and construction. When introducing the VSG, the Company knew it would be a success but never anticipated the demand and recognition it would give fine Ashton cigars.

In November 2003, the new Ashton Heritage Puro Sol was introduced and immediately received a 90 rating from Cigar Insider and numerous accolades from industry insiders and consumers alike. The Ashton Heritage Puro Sol, one of the newest fine Ashton cigars, will be a cigar steeped in the tradition and honor of two legendary cigar families, the Fuentes and Meerapfels. This exquisite cigar marks the first time a Cameroon wrapper has surrounded an Ashton blend and the results are stunning. With the marriage of Carlos Fuente Sr's blending and the African cameroon wrapper selected by the late Rick Meerapfel, the Ashton Heritage Puro Sol is destined for a place in cigar history.

No matter which Ashton cigar is chosen, one can expect unsurpassed quality, consistency and pleasure beyond expectation in all fine Ashton cigars.

If you're new to cigar smoking you might want to checkout my website [http://www.TheRefinedGentleman.com] for information on quality cigars as well as many other topics of interest to Refined Gentlemen everywhere.

Interested in fine Ashton cigars [http://www.therefinedgentleman.com/fine-ashton-cigars.php]? Visit my website for more information.

Fine Ashton cigars

Cigar Urban Legends

Any entity that is rich in culture and lore has the potential to fall victim to Urban Legends, legends based on fiction but masquerading as truths. From the Urban Legend of Bloody Mary to the Urban Legend about the choking Doberman, these kinds of legends run rampant, passed down from generation to generation. While cigars don't serve as the focal point of most Urban Legends, there are a few tales that use tobacco to blow just a little bit of smoke.

The Cigar Arsonist

One of the most popular cigar Urban Legends involves the tale of a man from North Carolina who purchased a case of very rare and expensive cigars and insured them against, wait for it, fire. After having these cigars for a month, he began to light them up, smoke them, and discard them. He then filed a claim to his insurance company, hoping to procure payment for his insured stogies.

In this claim, the North Carolina man asserted that he lost all of his cigars in several instances of small fires. The insurance company, wise to this man's ways, stated that they wouldn't pay, claiming that this man lost the cigars in typical cigar fashion: by smoking them. Refusing to let the situation rest, the man sued his insurance company for their claim denial and he won. The judge overhearing the case stated that the insurance company willingly insured the cigars against fire and they weren't able to pick and choose what they deemed "acceptable" fire.

Instead of appealing, the insurance company took the judge's ruling for what it was worth and paid the man his 15,000 dollar claim. Right after the man cashed his check, however, the insurance company called the authorities and had him arrested on 24 counts of arson, one count for each cigar lit on fire. Using his own testimony against him, testimony the man had used to file his insurance claim, the prosecuting attorney was successful in proving the man's guilt. He was ultimately sentenced to 24 years in prison, where he most likely was forced to give up his cigar smoking habit and adopt the less luxurious habit of plain old cigarettes.

Junk Collecting for Charity

Another cigar legend involves collecting junk as a way to contribute to charity. There was a time when hoarding wasn't only reserved for the obsessive compulsive; in the olden days, people used to save all kinds of things - rubber bands, bags, tinfoil, and string. These people wouldn't necessarily reuse the products they saved, instead they saved them for no obvious reason or reasons based on legends..

Cigar wrappers were soon one of these items that were religiously saved. In a sort of philanthropy gone awry, a myth was generated stating that people who saved cigar wrappers, cigarette packs, and the lids to coffee cans would be rewarded with devices needed for handicap people. It was rumored that fifty thousand empty cigarette packs would get someone a hospital bed while 10,000 cigar wrappers would get someone a wheelchair. Though no one was ever able to cash in on their collection, this myth continued and junk manifested in the homes of those someday hoping their dedication to hoarding would pay off.

The Exploding Cigar

As legend states, President Franklin Delano Roosevelt was once invited to serve as the keynote speaker at a graduation ceremony where he was given, as tradition warrants, an honorary degree. The dean of this school was an old war buddy of FDR's and FDR thanked him for the honor of speaking by giving the dean a cigar.

After a few weeks passed, FDR called the dean and asked him if he enjoyed the cigar. The dean stated that he hadn't smoked it just yet, he was saving it as a personal treasure. The dean kept the cigar for years and upon his death it was passed down to the next generation. After going through the hands of several generations, a descendant of the dean smoked it, not knowing that it was from FDR. While the cigar behaved normally for a moment, it soon exploded in the face of the smoker. A joke decades in the making had finally paid off. Somewhere, FDR was chuckling.

Urban Legends, like cigars themselves, come in a variety. Some are scary, some are believable, and some leave people afraid to eat pop rocks and drink soda at the same time. Cigar Urban Legends, though few and far between, provide people with a sense of tradition: they perpetuate the knowledge that cigars are always leaving their mark on us, forever burning their reputation into our culture.

Jennifer Jordan is an editor and staff writer for http://www.whatsknottolove.com. At home in a design firm in Denver, Colorado, she writes articles specific to the finer things in life.

Red Shoe Diaries Collection , Nude Cigar Smoking : Erotic 4 Disc Box Set

Cigar smoking has never been so pleasurable! This is the video for anyone curious about cigars-specifically how they look when being smoked by beautiful naked women. Three gorgeous eye-popping maidens teach viewers everything they wanted to know about cigar smoking but were afraid to ask. From the large full-bodied Churchill to the sleek Panatela these beauties demonstrate how to properly clip light smoke and appreciate fine cigars. So sit back light up and share the flavor the aroma and the heat of what has now become one of the world s most popular trends-Zalman King's spicy Showtime series has become a late night institution. This collection contains the original movie starring David Duchovny that provided the inspiration for the series, as well as GIRL ON A BIKE, a collection of three episodes, and a CD soundtrack of music from the show, composed by George S. Clinton

Price:

Click here to buy from Amazon

A Look at How to Buy Discount Cigars

Unlike most cigarettes, cigars are available in a wide variety of prices, and a wide variety of qualities. While the most discerning cigar aficionado can purchase brands costing upwards of several hundred dollars for just a small set, one can also choose from a variety of discount cigars that also offer a genuinely pleasing smoking experience. In fact, some of the highest-quality brands of cigars can often be purchased at greatly reduced prices, if one is willing to do a little bit of looking around. Discount cigars account for a large portion of the multi-million dollar cigar business in North America, making the practice accessible to smokers of all income levels.

One of the most common methods for purchasing discounted cigars is through the Internet. A simple search for "discount cigars" will produce literally hundreds of results, with dozens upon dozens of low-priced cigars to choose from. One prominent discount cigar merchant, Payless Cigars, has offered low-priced cigars, lighters, humidors, gifts and many other items since 1974. The site is perfect for any cigar aficionado looking for quality products at reduced prices.

Some of the most common brands of premium cigars available at discounted prices include the famous Macanudo brand, which features several different cigars of varying tastes, as well as the well-known Montecristo and Nat Sherman labels. Despite their availability at discounted prices, they are high quality, handcrafted cigars and are widely purchased and smoked buy enthusiasts all over the U.S.

One key to finding real savings in discount cigars is to buy in bulk. Oftentimes, when an individual elects to buy a large assortment of cigars at one time, major discounts are available. Cigar bundles are popular among smokers who desire either a variety of cigar choices, or sheer quantity for gifts to friends or relatives. In most cases, next day delivery is available for a small, additional fee.

Although certain brands of cigars will always be expensive, discount cigar merchants can make many cigars and cigar products affordable for almost anyone.

Cigars Info provides comprehensive information on cigar smoking, Cuban cigars, discount cigars, humidors, lighters, boxes, and more. Cigars Info is the sister site of Humidors Web.

Toraño family new common area – series of Jalapa: one region, a farm, a good Cigar

Just as everything after terroir — with its important contribution to the unique personality of wine determines the exact region and the farm where the tobacco is grown, finally, style and character of a premium cigar.

Toraño family Cigar Company presents the first edition of its Inland Region series at this August IPCPR 2010. Concept highlights the various characteristics of tobaccos grown on individual farms in different regions of the world's best-producing countries. Each Series will feature a mix created entirely from tobaccos grown in a carefully selected finca in a given region.The mix of taste and aroma will reflect the impact of the region's soil, weather and topography. Toraños applied since their well-known blending mode artistic create a profound smoking experience reveals the character of this historic region of tobacco.

Bruce m. Lewis, Vice President of sales and marketing, explains the birth of the concept: "I have always had an interest in the principle of single region and how important it is that wine and coffee.At the beginning of 2008, I proposed to President Charlie Toraño that we experiment with mixtures of tobacco from only one farm. we realized soon mixture such a cigar was not an easy task. Now, but I know we have really captured the properties and taste profile of tobacco grown in Jalapa. "

The first edition, Seri e Jalapa, has a mixture of tobacco from El Estero Farm in Jalapa, Nicaragua.This small farm, situated in the country's northernmost growing province, is irrigated by a centuries-old, natural power of the property; Its mineral-rich waters, together with sandy beaches, red clay soil, this farm to grow some of the finest and most aromatic tobacco in the world; Lewis ' tasting Panel notes indicates Series Jalapa is incredibly rich ", complex, storage, and with a large presence of sweetness.The mixture of exhibitions that balances well good strength with the rounded, saturated taste. "

Charlie Toraño added, "I invite all participants to stop IPCPR through our Pavilion (booth 2501, 2503, 2505, 2600, 2602, 2604) to experience the series of Jalapa, available only for brick and mortar retailers."

Single region – series of Jalapa three sizes is: 5 ' x 52 Robusto, 6 "x 54 Toro Grande and 7" x 50 Churchill, with a suggested retail of $ 6.50-6.95. Cigars appears on tobacco retailers ' shelves immediately after the August show, alongside the company's equally revolutionary new mixture, background of Carlos Toraño.

A leader in the cigar, the Toraño family Cigar Company is a four-generation; It enjoys a rich cultural heritage and history in the tobacco growing and manufacturing.

Popularity: 1% [?]

View the original article here

CigarChat # 7, sponsored by Tesa cigars

Know that it is a while since I have done a # cigarchat event (you know, new jobs and all), but they're back!

Next chat, sponsored by the Chicago-based Tesa cigars, will be on Monday 27th September from 7-9 pm CST, and cigar we are smoking is Tesa Cabinet 312.

Once again there will be some sticks to go.Follow me on Twitter at @ DanielHonigman and keep an eye out for my message it; The first 10 people to DM me after it (a few from Chicago, 4-5 from elsewhere) will receive a Government 312 to enjoy during the event.(Of course, you need to smoke it in # cigarchat, and provide proof in the form of a photo or video that contains the appropriate hashtag.)

Hope you can make the chat!
_______________________

Note: This was originally released on danielhonigman.com in its Cigar in the Week.

Popularity: 3% [?]Tagged as: Chat, cigarchat Cigar

View the original article here

Sometimes is no best answer

My wife sent me this yesterday and still tiresome pace for a response.

It is a story about a Knight who gets married to a hideous old hag in Honourable obediance to a vow of silence. Wedding night becomes hag a beautiful young woman.Knight has a choice: they can be beautiful in the privacy of their bedroom or beautiful in public hall. Wonder what most people would choose?

Sometimes it's better not to respond to these questions when either response could get problems., or perhaps I over think it.

Popularity: 2% [?]Tagged as: Evil, issues, Women

View the original article here

The Adventures of Tintin: Tintin in America / Cigars of the Pharaoh / The Blue Lotus (3 Complete Adventures in One Volume, Vol. 1)

As all Tintin fans know, once you've read one of his terrific adventures, you've got to read another and then another. Each of these collections contains three classic and fully complete Tintin adventures. Packed with all the color, wit, and derring-do that has made Tintin one of the world's most beloved comic characters, these books are easy to carry and fun to read. each.

Price: $18.99

Click here to buy from Amazon

Boveda One Step EZ Humidor Seasoning Packet

Easy to use simply place inside humidor. Take the guesswork out of seasoning your new humidor. Boveda seasoning packets guarantee a complete and even equilibration of moisture without causing mold, a mustiness smell, or warping which can happen when following traditional seasoning methods. Nothing could be easier. Use one packet for every 50 cigar capacity plus one additional packet. For example a 100 count humidor would require three packets.

Price:

Click here to buy from Amazon

5-cigar Caddy 3400

The perfect humidor for the outdoor or water sports aficionados. Made in USA by Otter Box, this crush-proof humidor comes with a lifetime guarantee. Not only it is watertight to depths well beyond 100 feet, it is made with a fiber-glass reinforced ABS resin that is virtually indestructible. Protects up to 5 Churchill length cigars. Includes humidifier. Color: black. Interior dimensions: L 7.875 - W 3.813 - D 1.500. Exterior dimensions: L 8.375 - W 4.375 - D 1.875.

Price: $24.49

Click here to buy from Amazon

Cigars Basics That Anyone Can Understand--And How to Choose the Right One as a Gift

Got a cigar-smoking father or husband? Relax, we can tell you everything you need to know to select the perfect "super-premium" gift for any hard-to-shop-for dad.

Type of Cigar Based on Size

There are several ways of categorizing cigars: size, shape, strength, their country of origin, and the way they are made (hand-rolled vs. machine). The most common way to categorize a cigar is by size, which is the cigar's length in inches and ring size (cigar diameter) measured in 64ths of an inch. There is actually a name associated with each length and ring size and these are the cigar names that you may be familiar with. Corona, Panatela, Torpedo, Toro, Churchill, Perfecto, Cigarillo, Lonsdale, Robusto, and the largest of them all, Giant. The Giant style of cigar is 9 inches in length with a ring size of 52!

Colors, Shapes, and Hand-Rolled

After choosing a cigar based on size, you can start to whittle down your choices by choosing the color of the exterior wrapper color (there are more than 100 different wrapper shades!) and the shape of the cigar. Flared, tapered, pyramid are the basic shapes. And don't buy the cheapest cigar -- hand-rolled cigars should be your only choice. No one can ever appreciate the true joy of cigar smoking with a machine-made cigar. Don't even spend the money.

Start with Mild-Flavored Cigars

If your gift is for an aspiring cigar connoisseur, start by buying one of several different sizes/styles of cigars at your local tobacconist. Choose mild cigars at first and work your way up to stronger flavors. Here are the benefits of starting with mild cigars: they generally cost less than stronger cigars and you won't lose as much money as your beloved learns how to cut the ends appropriately, learns the best way to light them, and learns the best way to store them at home. You will be surprised at how quickly they dry out if not properly contained. It's a learned art!

Get the Most Out of Your Cigars

Here is what long-time cigar enthusiasts recommend about smoking and enjoying cigars. This is also useful stuff to relate to the profoundly happy recipient of your gift:

o There are many types of cigars. Experiment with new sizes and flavors.

o Don't inhale cigar smoke when puffing and keep the smoke in your mouth for the shortest length of time.

o Unless you buy your cigars in single sticks that were stored in a humidor, age your cigars by stripping off all packaging and placing them in a humidor for a few months before smoking. Do not store your cigars in the refrigerator because it will dry them out.

o Throw away partially smoked cigars--do not put a stinky used cigar in your humidor!

o To really enjoy your cigar smoking experience, choose the right drink to go with your carefully chosen indulgence. Try some strong-flavored drinks to enhance the flavor of your cigar, such as scotch, port wine, and Kahlua drinks.

o Biting the tip off a premium cigar should only be done by gangsters in movies. Don't do it. Use a sharp cigar cutter.

o Do not use paper matches to light your cigar. Use a butane lighter for best results. Wooden matches are OK but make sure you let the sulfur burn off first.

o When you are finished with your cigar, let it burn itself out in the ashtray. Snuffing your cigar out leaves an unpleasant smell.

Get That Man a Cigar for Father's Day!

If the thought of choosing a cigar for a Father's Day gift is overwhelming, never fear. Cigar accessories, such as cutters, humidors, lighters, cigar cases, and ashtrays, will also make a cigar smoker happy. You need not travel to your local tobacconist to find the best Father's Day gift. Find the right cigar and purchase online at Heroes and Legacies at [http://www.heroesandlegacies.com/index.shtml]. Their easy-to-use online Cigar Finder will help you find just the right cigar.

Jayne Miller is a freelance writer and marketing consultant from Austin, Texas. She has been associated with Heroes and Legacies for several years. Visit their website at

[http://www.heroesandlegacies.com/index.shtml]