I have a cigar guy here in Temecula. Over the years he has narrowed down what I like. I would buy a few at at time. When we moved to Riverside for a year I bought a humidor so I could buy in bulk and he'd get me fresh boxes of cigars I like.
A humidor makes a tremendous difference. You can get the secret sauce from Amazon if you want
I have a cigar guy here in Temecula. Over the years he has narrowed down what I like. I would buy a few at at time. When we moved to Riverside for a year I bought a humidor so I could buy in bulk and he'd get me fresh boxes of cigars I like.
A humidor makes a tremendous difference. You can get the secret sauce from Amazon if you want
Need to have a beer and cigar with Race confirmed.
I only smoke cigars when I'm drinking scotch or playing golf, and I'm too focused on the scotch and my round to give a shit about the cigar I'm smoking.
That's a couple of pics of my humidor. It was custom made as a gift from my wife for my 40th birthday. I don't recall the name of the guy that made it, but I met him through East County Guns in Elma, as he made all their humidors as well.
I use a humidification system (set it and mostly forget it) that I got through Cigar Oasis. It works well and isn't a pain in the ass.
The top pic is my current stock, but I haven't really loaded up for summer yet as the weather has been too hit and miss to get outside often enough.
Here's what I've currently got stocked:
Macanudo Hyde Park, Connecticut Shade, Robusto: Easy smoke, usually consistent Partagas Black Label, Dark Natural, Toro: A little stronger with good flavor, but can be inconsistent in taste and draw Camacho American Barrel Aged Robusto: A current favorite. This one surprised me. Consistent, good flavor and easy draw. Montecristo White, Natural, Churchill: Not really full of flavor, but pleasant and when you wanna look like you're holding a big cigar, this is a good choice. Arturo Fuente 858, Natural, Corona: Always a fan of Fuentes. This batch has been a little inconsistent in the draw, but still a quality smoke. Padron 1964 Pyramide, Maduro, Torpedo: Padron are my favorites, but you pay for it as well. This is a bit of a novelty design, but it looks cool and the taste is outstanding. Tatuaje Havana IV, Natural, Robusto: These are ok, but kinda disappointing. Just really inconsistent in draw and in taste. Arturo Fuente Sun Grown Belicoso, Natural: Again, a good Fuente. Easy draw with good taste. Oliva Cain 660, Maduro, Toro: My second favorite right now and also affordable. Feels like holding a brick with a smooth draw and solid flavor. Underrated. Nub Cappuccino, Natural, Rothschild: Short and sweet with a coffee flavor. Not a daily smoke, but something to have when you don't have much time and want something different tasting. Java: I have a variety of these. They have some with a hint of mint, or coffee, or chocolate. Mostly for guys (and the occasional female) that want something that "tastes good". Good to keep on hand. Oliva Connecticut Reserve: Easy smoke, not harsh. Most of Oliva's stuff is good. These have a consistent draw, but aren't overly flavorful.
The bottom pic is from a couple of years ago.
I really enjoy trying lots of different stuff and that really helps me define what I like. I've found some high-end stuff to be just okay and I've found some low-end stuff that I thought was pretty good.
A myth you need to avoid: Dark wrapper = strong taste. Not always true. My current stock notwithstanding, I lean toward a Maduro wrapper most of the time. Don't be afraid of a dark cigar.
That's a couple of pics of my humidor. It was custom made as a gift from my wife for my 40th birthday. I don't recall the name of the guy that made it, but I met him through East County Guns in Elma, as he made all their humidors as well.
I use a humidification system (set it and mostly forget it) that I got through Cigar Oasis. It works well and isn't a pain in the ass.
The top pic is my current stock, but I haven't really loaded up for summer yet as the weather has been too hit and miss to get outside often enough.
Here's what I've currently got stocked:
Macanudo Hyde Park, Connecticut Shade, Robusto: Easy smoke, usually consistent Partagas Black Label, Dark Natural, Toro: A little stronger with good flavor, but can be inconsistent in taste and draw Camacho American Barrel Aged Robusto: A current favorite. This one surprised me. Consistent, good flavor and easy draw. Montecristo White, Natural, Churchill: Not really full of flavor, but pleasant and when you wanna look like you're holding a big cigar, this is a good choice. Arturo Fuente 858, Natural, Corona: Always a fan of Fuentes. This batch has been a little inconsistent in the draw, but still a quality smoke. Padron 1964 Pyramide, Maduro, Torpedo: Padron are my favorites, but you pay for it as well. This is a bit of a novelty design, but it looks cool and the taste is outstanding. Tatuaje Havana IV, Natural, Robusto: These are ok, but kinda disappointing. Just really inconsistent in draw and in taste. Arturo Fuente Sun Grown Belicoso, Natural: Again, a good Fuente. Easy draw with good taste. Oliva Cain 660, Maduro, Toro: My second favorite right now and also affordable. Feels like holding a brick with a smooth draw and solid flavor. Underrated. Nub Cappuccino, Natural, Rothschild: Short and sweet with a coffee flavor. Not a daily smoke, but something to have when you don't have much time and want something different tasting. Java: I have a variety of these. They have some with a hint of mint, or coffee, or chocolate. Mostly for guys (and the occasional female) that want something that "tastes good". Good to keep on hand. Oliva Connecticut Reserve: Easy smoke, not harsh. Most of Oliva's stuff is good. These have a consistent draw, but aren't overly flavorful.
The bottom pic is from a couple of years ago.
I really enjoy trying lots of different stuff and that really helps me define what I like. I've found some high-end stuff to be just okay and I've found some low-end stuff that I thought was pretty good.
A myth you need to avoid: Dark wrapper = strong taste. Not always true. My current stock notwithstanding, I lean toward a Maduro wrapper most of the time. Don't be afraid of a dark cigar.
I think we found CIGAR SUPERIORITY GUY of the bored.
That's a couple of pics of my humidor. It was custom made as a gift from my wife for my 40th birthday. I don't recall the name of the guy that made it, but I met him through East County Guns in Elma, as he made all their humidors as well.
I use a humidification system (set it and mostly forget it) that I got through Cigar Oasis. It works well and isn't a pain in the ass.
The top pic is my current stock, but I haven't really loaded up for summer yet as the weather has been too hit and miss to get outside often enough.
Here's what I've currently got stocked:
Macanudo Hyde Park, Connecticut Shade, Robusto: Easy smoke, usually consistent Partagas Black Label, Dark Natural, Toro: A little stronger with good flavor, but can be inconsistent in taste and draw Camacho American Barrel Aged Robusto: A current favorite. This one surprised me. Consistent, good flavor and easy draw. Montecristo White, Natural, Churchill: Not really full of flavor, but pleasant and when you wanna look like you're holding a big cigar, this is a good choice. Arturo Fuente 858, Natural, Corona: Always a fan of Fuentes. This batch has been a little inconsistent in the draw, but still a quality smoke. Padron 1964 Pyramide, Maduro, Torpedo: Padron are my favorites, but you pay for it as well. This is a bit of a novelty design, but it looks cool and the taste is outstanding. Tatuaje Havana IV, Natural, Robusto: These are ok, but kinda disappointing. Just really inconsistent in draw and in taste. Arturo Fuente Sun Grown Belicoso, Natural: Again, a good Fuente. Easy draw with good taste. Oliva Cain 660, Maduro, Toro: My second favorite right now and also affordable. Feels like holding a brick with a smooth draw and solid flavor. Underrated. Nub Cappuccino, Natural, Rothschild: Short and sweet with a coffee flavor. Not a daily smoke, but something to have when you don't have much time and want something different tasting. Java: I have a variety of these. They have some with a hint of mint, or coffee, or chocolate. Mostly for guys (and the occasional female) that want something that "tastes good". Good to keep on hand. Oliva Connecticut Reserve: Easy smoke, not harsh. Most of Oliva's stuff is good. These have a consistent draw, but aren't overly flavorful.
The bottom pic is from a couple of years ago.
I really enjoy trying lots of different stuff and that really helps me define what I like. I've found some high-end stuff to be just okay and I've found some low-end stuff that I thought was pretty good.
A myth you need to avoid: Dark wrapper = strong taste. Not always true. My current stock notwithstanding, I lean toward a Maduro wrapper most of the time. Don't be afraid of a dark cigar.
That's a couple of pics of my humidor. It was custom made as a gift from my wife for my 40th birthday. I don't recall the name of the guy that made it, but I met him through East County Guns in Elma, as he made all their humidors as well.
I use a humidification system (set it and mostly forget it) that I got through Cigar Oasis. It works well and isn't a pain in the ass.
The top pic is my current stock, but I haven't really loaded up for summer yet as the weather has been too hit and miss to get outside often enough.
Here's what I've currently got stocked:
Macanudo Hyde Park, Connecticut Shade, Robusto: Easy smoke, usually consistent Partagas Black Label, Dark Natural, Toro: A little stronger with good flavor, but can be inconsistent in taste and draw Camacho American Barrel Aged Robusto: A current favorite. This one surprised me. Consistent, good flavor and easy draw. Montecristo White, Natural, Churchill: Not really full of flavor, but pleasant and when you wanna look like you're holding a big cigar, this is a good choice. Arturo Fuente 858, Natural, Corona: Always a fan of Fuentes. This batch has been a little inconsistent in the draw, but still a quality smoke. Padron 1964 Pyramide, Maduro, Torpedo: Padron are my favorites, but you pay for it as well. This is a bit of a novelty design, but it looks cool and the taste is outstanding. Tatuaje Havana IV, Natural, Robusto: These are ok, but kinda disappointing. Just really inconsistent in draw and in taste. Arturo Fuente Sun Grown Belicoso, Natural: Again, a good Fuente. Easy draw with good taste. Oliva Cain 660, Maduro, Toro: My second favorite right now and also affordable. Feels like holding a brick with a smooth draw and solid flavor. Underrated. Nub Cappuccino, Natural, Rothschild: Short and sweet with a coffee flavor. Not a daily smoke, but something to have when you don't have much time and want something different tasting. Java: I have a variety of these. They have some with a hint of mint, or coffee, or chocolate. Mostly for guys (and the occasional female) that want something that "tastes good". Good to keep on hand. Oliva Connecticut Reserve: Easy smoke, not harsh. Most of Oliva's stuff is good. These have a consistent draw, but aren't overly flavorful.
The bottom pic is from a couple of years ago.
I really enjoy trying lots of different stuff and that really helps me define what I like. I've found some high-end stuff to be just okay and I've found some low-end stuff that I thought was pretty good.
A myth you need to avoid: Dark wrapper = strong taste. Not always true. My current stock notwithstanding, I lean toward a Maduro wrapper most of the time. Don't be afraid of a dark cigar.
I had to quit cigars - well smoking altogether - fighting gum disease for too many years and it is a killer on the mouth. When I smoked it was cheap to go with my cheap taste in alcohol. I preferred a smaller quick smoke and good ones are tougher to find. I did enjoy New York Minutes for a quick puff.
You guys shopping; consider one with a window or glass top. It's not ideal having that dead surface the humidity can't sink into nor cedar age the cigars, but you'll want to buy a digital hygrometer and be able to read it w/o always having to open the top. The built-in dials are unreliable. Humidify with propylene glycol to avoid fungus and get a solid aging.
You guys shopping; consider one with a window or glass top. It's not ideal having that dead surface the humidity can't sink into nor cedar age the cigars, but you'll want to buy a digital hygrometer and be able to read it w/o always having to open the top. The built-in dials are unreliable. Humidify with propylene glycol to avoid fungus and get a solid aging.
Done done and done. @UW_Doog_Bot was nice enough to get me a glass top. Got a digital hygrometer on order and the propylene glycol from Cigar Daddy. Seasoning wipes from FESS or some shit. It's all supposed to be here Monday night. I'll wipe it down, put some DI water in a shot glass and fill the little puck with the glycol. My research indicates preloading with the wipes and doing the DI water and the glycol combined can knock seasoning down to 48-72 hours and have it nice and good in there. Then load it with stogies and get to it.
Bought 10 cigars today at the smoke shop. All randoms around 10-12 bucks each. Wanted Cohibas or the Padron Reserves people have mentioned, but they were all 20-30 bucks at this place. FML. Also got one of those stupid notebooks on order so I can stick the wrapper on it and write things like "WTF, SUCKED, GREAT, LIKE FUCKING KATE BECKINGSALE" so I know when I find a couple I like. With any luck and if the humidity Gods smile on me, I will be fully operational by next weekend.
You need to make sure your cigar store has proper storage and fresh stock as well
Most strip mall cigar stores don't
My Temecula cigar guy is in a shopping center so it's not a deal breaker but he has a humidor cigar room and will order boxes fresh upon request
That's why I stick with him. A lot of places suck
Probably good advice. I live out in the sticks so options are limited. The place I went this morning is in a shithole strip center but there is no dedicated place close. At least the cigars were kept in a self contained room but that probably means fuckall. I am not well versed in this shit enough yet to know good from bad. Are there online solutions? Places that will ship really good stuff in ways that they arrive to you fresh?
Be careful about overloading your humidor and getting it too moist too quick = mold. Out in VA you probably have high enough humidity that stuff doesn't dry out super quick anyway. You have some time to get it properly seasoned without fucking up new cigars. That's why I sent you the humidor first.
Comments
A humidor makes a tremendous difference. You can get the secret sauce from Amazon if you want
Tobacco belongs in a pinch between the cheek and gum like the good lord and Walt Garrison intended.
https://m.youtube.com/channel/UC3tzfsa5hcL-03Ffm-XW8_Q
You’re welcome @Swaye
That's a couple of pics of my humidor. It was custom made as a gift from my wife for my 40th birthday. I don't recall the name of the guy that made it, but I met him through East County Guns in Elma, as he made all their humidors as well.
I use a humidification system (set it and mostly forget it) that I got through Cigar Oasis. It works well and isn't a pain in the ass.
The top pic is my current stock, but I haven't really loaded up for summer yet as the weather has been too hit and miss to get outside often enough.
Here's what I've currently got stocked:
Macanudo Hyde Park, Connecticut Shade, Robusto: Easy smoke, usually consistent
Partagas Black Label, Dark Natural, Toro: A little stronger with good flavor, but can be inconsistent in taste and draw
Camacho American Barrel Aged Robusto: A current favorite. This one surprised me. Consistent, good flavor and easy draw.
Montecristo White, Natural, Churchill: Not really full of flavor, but pleasant and when you wanna look like you're holding a big cigar, this is a good choice.
Arturo Fuente 858, Natural, Corona: Always a fan of Fuentes. This batch has been a little inconsistent in the draw, but still a quality smoke.
Padron 1964 Pyramide, Maduro, Torpedo: Padron are my favorites, but you pay for it as well. This is a bit of a novelty design, but it looks cool and the taste is outstanding.
Tatuaje Havana IV, Natural, Robusto: These are ok, but kinda disappointing. Just really inconsistent in draw and in taste.
Arturo Fuente Sun Grown Belicoso, Natural: Again, a good Fuente. Easy draw with good taste.
Oliva Cain 660, Maduro, Toro: My second favorite right now and also affordable. Feels like holding a brick with a smooth draw and solid flavor. Underrated.
Nub Cappuccino, Natural, Rothschild: Short and sweet with a coffee flavor. Not a daily smoke, but something to have when you don't have much time and want something different tasting.
Java: I have a variety of these. They have some with a hint of mint, or coffee, or chocolate. Mostly for guys (and the occasional female) that want something that "tastes good". Good to keep on hand.
Oliva Connecticut Reserve: Easy smoke, not harsh. Most of Oliva's stuff is good. These have a consistent draw, but aren't overly flavorful.
The bottom pic is from a couple of years ago.
I really enjoy trying lots of different stuff and that really helps me define what I like. I've found some high-end stuff to be just okay and I've found some low-end stuff that I thought was pretty good.
A myth you need to avoid: Dark wrapper = strong taste. Not always true. My current stock notwithstanding, I lean toward a Maduro wrapper most of the time. Don't be afraid of a dark cigar.
@DHD that is one impressive set up you have.
https://www.amazon.com/Cherry-Wood-Glass-Cigar-Humidor/dp/B000K8O4D6
You guys shopping; consider one with a window or glass top. It's not ideal having that dead surface the humidity can't sink into nor cedar age the cigars, but you'll want to buy a digital hygrometer and be able to read it w/o always having to open the top. The built-in dials are unreliable. Humidify with propylene glycol to avoid fungus and get a solid aging.
Bought 10 cigars today at the smoke shop. All randoms around 10-12 bucks each. Wanted Cohibas or the Padron Reserves people have mentioned, but they were all 20-30 bucks at this place. FML. Also got one of those stupid notebooks on order so I can stick the wrapper on it and write things like "WTF, SUCKED, GREAT, LIKE FUCKING KATE BECKINGSALE" so I know when I find a couple I like. With any luck and if the humidity Gods smile on me, I will be fully operational by next weekend.
Most strip mall cigar stores don't
My Temecula cigar guy is in a shopping center so it's not a deal breaker but he has a humidor cigar room and will order boxes fresh upon request
That's why I stick with him. A lot of places suck
Back when he was a small timer in the British East India co. he trusted a guy who knew which ships wouldn't result in scurvy
And here he stands. The power of networking