| Is there a cigar aficionado on your gift list? Wondering | | | | able to tell you extensive information about the |
| how to choose a decent cigar for a friend or loved | | | | ingredients. |
| one? Even if you know nothing about cigars or | | | | Your local tobacco shop is a good place to shop |
| choosing a good cigar, just learning a few basics can | | | | because you will generally be allowed to smell and |
| help you sniff out (sometimes literally) a good cigar to | | | | touch the cigars. Squeeze the cigar gently. A good |
| give to a friend. | | | | quality cigar will give a little when squeezed. The cigar |
| Fortunately, cigars have now entered the mainstream. | | | | should be firm, with no excessively soft or hard spots. |
| Once the symbol of the rich and powerful, it's easier | | | | Never buy a lumpy cigar. Look at the wrapper. If you |
| than ever for just about anyone to purchase a good | | | | notice any drying or discoloration, best not to buy it. |
| cigar. Of course, you probably won't be able to buy | | | | Ideally, the wrapper should be tight and smooth. Inspect |
| your friend a box of top-tier Cuban cigars, but you can | | | | the color of the tobacco to make sure it is even. Do |
| definitely buy them a good quality cigar that will put a | | | | this by inspecting the end of the cigar. Some color |
| smile on their face. | | | | variation is normal, but if the color changes abruptly, |
| First, visit your local tobacconist or specialty smoke | | | | chances are the cigar was not rolled properly. A cigar |
| shop for the best quality and widest selection. Avoid | | | | that is not rolled properly may result in an uneven |
| 'drugstore' cigars. Although they may be inexpensive | | | | burning and unpleasant odors. |
| and convenient to purchase, drugstore cigars are | | | | If you're not sure how much your friend smokes, |
| usually filled with preservatives and generally of poorer | | | | choose a longer cigar. Longer cigars tend to have a |
| quality. They may contain, at minimum, saltpeter, paper, | | | | 'cooler' taste-an excellent choice for beginners. If you |
| glycerin, and other preservatives and irritants. You | | | | know your friend is an experienced and regular |
| should make sure that the cigars you purchase are | | | | smoker, choose a cigar that is greater in diameter. |
| made of 100% tobacco. If you have any questions | | | | These cigars tend to have a richer flavor that |
| regarding the cigars ingredients, ask the salesperson. | | | | experienced smokers will appreciate. |
| An experienced and knowledgeable sales clerk will be | | | | |