Let’s talk about taste. What you taste when you smoke a cigar stimulates debate among many aficionados. How can you tell if a cigar tastes like cedar, leather, or coffee beans? Tasting cigars involves your sense of smell as much as your taste buds. Most of us can relate to...

When new cigar lovers begin to experiment with different shapes, it’s important to know how different cutters affect a cigar’s draw. Figurados (or figured shapes) like a Torpedo, Pyramid, and Belicoso taper at the head. Generally, because Figurado-shaped cigars require more skill to roll, they cost a little more than...

Even if you prefer mild cigars, it’s tough to ignore the temptation to smoke a strong cigar on occasion. Hearty, full-flavoured, full-bodied cigars are everywhere today. Stronger cigars score some the highest ratings and rankings in Cigar Aficionado. Because strong cigars have more nicotine, it’s wise to keep a few...