Posted on Feb 6, 2023

Cigar smoking is more than just a simple hobby or pastime, it's a true art form. To fully appreciate the craftsmanship, time and effort put into creating a premium cigar, one must engage in the art of cigar tasting.

Cigar tasting is not just about detecting the taste and aroma of a cigar, but also understanding the blend of tobaccos used and the impact they have on the final product. In this guide, we’ll explore the basics of cigar tasting and what you need to know to get started.

Understand the Types of Tobacco

To truly understand cigar tasting, you must first have a basic understanding of the different types of tobacco used in cigar making. The two main types of tobacco used in cigars are the filler and the wrapper.

The filler is the tobacco inside the cigar that gives it its body and flavor. The filler can be made from a combination of different types of tobacco leaves from various regions.

The wrapper is the leaf that covers the cigar and gives it its appearance. The wrapper can also impact the flavor of the cigar, so it's important to consider both the filler and wrapper when tasting a cigar.

Preparing for a Tasting

Before you begin, it's important to prepare for a cigar tasting. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:

• Choose the right environment. Look for a quiet, well-ventilated area where you won’t be disturbed.
• Clean your palate. Drink water or chew on a neutral-tasting cracker to clear your palate before smoking.
• Use a humidor. Store your cigars in a humidor to keep them at the right humidity levels. A cigar that's too dry will burn too quickly and taste harsh, while a cigar that's too moist will not burn evenly.

The Tasting Process

Once you're prepared, it's time to begin the tasting process. Here are the steps to follow:

• Visual Inspection

Take a moment to examine the appearance of the cigar. Look at its color, shape, and texture. These visual cues can provide a clue as to the quality of the cigar and the tobacco used.

• Aroma Inspection

Smell the cigar before lighting it. Take note of the aroma and the scents that come to mind. This will give you a preview of the flavors you can expect to taste once you light up.

• Pre-Light Draw

Take a draw on the cigar without lighting it. This will give you an idea of the resistance and air flow of the cigar. It can also provide a clue as to the type of filler tobacco used.

• Lighting and Puffing

Light the cigar using a butane lighter or a cedar spill. Take slow, steady puffs, allowing the smoke to linger in your mouth for a few seconds before exhaling.

• Tasting

Now it's time to focus on the flavor and aroma of the cigar. Pay attention to the different sensations and flavors that come to mind as you smoke.

• Retrohaling

Retrohaling is a technique where you exhale the smoke through your nose instead of your mouth. This allows you to taste the cigar in a different way, providing a more complete experience.

Identifying Flavors and Aromas

One of the most challenging parts of cigar tasting is identifying the flavors and aromas. Here are some of the most common flavors and aromas you may encounter:

• Earthy: Notes of soil, mushroom, and wood can be described as earthy.
• Woody: Cedar, oak, and other wood flavors can be described as woody.
• Spicy: Pepper, nutmeg, and other spices can be described as spicy.
• Sweet: Caramel, honey, and other sweet flavors can be described as sweet.
• Fruity: Cherry, plum, and other fruit flavors can be described as fruity.
• Floral: Lavender, rose, and other floral flavors can be described as floral.
• Nutty: Almond, hazelnut, and other nut flavors can be described as nutty.
• Coffee: Bold, rich coffee flavors can be described as coffee.
• Leather: Leather, suede, and other leather flavors can be described as leathery.
• Tobacco: The taste of the tobacco itself can be described as tobacco.

These are just a few examples of the flavors and aromas you may encounter while cigar tasting. As you become more familiar with the process, you may find that you can detect even more nuanced flavors and aromas.

Tips for Improving Your Tasting Skills

As with any skill, the more you practice, the better you'll get at cigar tasting. Here are a few tips to help you improve:

• Taste regularly. The more cigars you taste, the more familiar you'll become with different flavors and aromas.
• Keep a tasting journal. Write down your thoughts and observations after each tasting to help you remember and reflect on your experiences.
• Try different cigars. Tasting cigars from different regions, made from different types of tobacco, and with different flavor profiles will broaden your palate and deepen your understanding of the art of cigar tasting.
• Taste with others. Talking with others about your experiences can help you better understand and appreciate different flavors and aromas.
• Be patient. Tasting cigars is a process that takes time and patience. Don't rush through it and take your time to fully experience each cigar.

Smoking Ash Sweet Sticks offers a premium selection of cigars that are sure to delight even the most discerning smoker. With a range of flavors and aromas to choose from, there's something for everyone at Smoking Ash Sweet Sticks. Whether you're a seasoned smoker or just starting out, we invite you to try our cigars and experience the art of cigar tasting for yourself.

If you have any questions or would like to place an order, don't hesitate to get in touch with us. Our knowledgeable and friendly staff is always here to assist you and ensure you have a truly memorable smoking experience. So why wait? Visit Smoking Ash Sweet Sticks today and discover the ultimate in cigar enjoyment!