One of the most coveted products for special occasions and intimate gatherings is premium cigars. Synonymous with quality, elegance, sophistication, and a unique sensory experience, this product makes an excellent gift for those with refined tastes.
However, many people are still inexperienced in the art of identifying flavors, recognizing quality, and other key aspects when choosing the best premium cigar.
At Tabaco y Ron, we are pleased to guide you on this topic, so you know what to look for when purchasing your premium cigar.
Why premium tobacco? What is the difference with regular tobacco?
Surely you have heard of premium cigars, but you may not know exactly why they are superior. Unlike other mass-produced, standard cigars, premium tobacco involves an elaborate and delicate artisanal process.
Each stage of the process is handled with utmost care, and attention to detail is key—from the cultivation of the plants, the selection of leaves, the fermentation and controlled aging processes to enhance aromas and flavors, to the way the cigar is rolled.
You have likely noticed that countries such as the Dominican Republic, Nicaragua, and Cuba are benchmarks in premium tobacco production. The climatic conditions and soil types in these nations are unique, giving the tobacco distinctive characteristics and a seal of tradition and quality.
What to look for when choosing a premium cigar?
But how do we choose premium tobacco correctly? Are there any clues? What should you look for when you’re just starting out? To avoid unpleasant experiences or beginner mistakes, at Tabaco y Ron we recommend considering these points to get the most out of your choice:
- Consider the strength of the tobacco and start with the mildest one.
Premium cigars have different levels of strength. This refers to the impact of the tobacco with each puff. The impact is the degree of strength of the cigar, referring to its nicotine content. They come in three levels.
For a beginner, it is advisable to start with a mild or medium cigar, as a strong one could make you feel dizzy. Start by getting your palate accustomed so that gradually you can experience other strengths.
- Discover your favorite flavor
Premium cigars offer many types of flavors. Of course, some are stronger than others. In their vast variety, you will find flavors of nuts, notes of wood, coffee, black pepper, and even dark chocolate.
If you are new to premium cigars, we recommend that you take your time to try different flavors, so you can find your favorites. Take advantage of tasting opportunities to find the right one for you.
- They come in different sizes
Premium cigars come in different sizes, mainly known as «vitola,» which is the «format» of the cigar. What does this mean? That length and ring gauge (diameter) affect the smoking characteristics. For example, longer cigars typically produce a cooler smoke; thicker ones have a more concentrated flavor.
- Verify the quality of the tobacco
Proper storage and construction are essential for a good experience. Make sure premium cigars are kept in a suitable environment, preferably in a humidor. Regarding construction, check that they have no cracks or holes, and that they are uniform and free of imperfections.
A good premium cigar is one that is firmly pressed but also flexible. Try rolling it between your fingers; check for soft spots, lumps, or even underfilling. Lack of content, being too tight, or having imperfections could lead to an uneven burn.
Tabaco y Ron: find the best premium cigars in Panama
Choosing a good cigar requires experience and knowledge on the subject. It can be difficult at first, so a good piece of advice is to seek guidance from specialists who can help you with all your questions; at Tabaco y Ron, we are delighted to assist you.
If you are looking for a specific flavor, want to know which strength level to start with, or even determine the best cigar for certain occasions (gatherings, weddings, etc.), our experts are ready to provide you with the best experience.
Located at Albrook Mall in Panama City, at Tabaco y Ron we offer you a traditional, artisanal, and quality glimpse into the world of premium cigars. If you wish to learn more about the different types of tobacco, their characteristics, and tips related to the art of smoking, feel free to continue reading our blog.