There are few pleasures in life that compare to the ritualistic enjoyment of a fine cigar, and few things that pair better with a deep, rich bourbon. From the aromatic smoke to the intricate flavors, every puff is a journey of sensory delight and contemplation. Whether you're a seasoned aficionado or a curious newcomer, let's embark on an exploration of the timeless art of cigars, uncovering the nuances and traditions that make this pastime truly special.

  At its core, a cigar is a tightly rolled bundle of cured and fermented tobacco leaves, designed to be smoked for pleasure. Unlike cigarettes, which are typically machine-made from shredded tobacco wrapped in paper and loaded with chemical additives, cigars are hand-crafted with all natural whole tobacco leaves, offering a more complex and nuanced smoking experience.

  Before delving into the world of cigars, it's essential to understand their anatomy. A typical cigar consists of three main components:

 1. Wrapper: The outermost layer of the cigar, often made from high-quality tobacco leaves selected for their appearance and texture.

2. Binder: The layer of tobacco leaves that holds the filler tobacco together, providing structural integrity and ensuring an even burn.

3. Filler: The blend of tobacco leaves that forms the core of the cigar, responsible for its flavor, strength, and complexity.

  One of the most intriguing aspects of cigars is the vast array of flavors and strengths. From the mild and mellow to the bold and robust, there's a cigar to suit every palate and preference. Common flavor profiles include earthy, spicy, woody, and sweet, each imparted by the unique blend of tobacco used in the cigar's construction.

  Selecting the right cigar can be an overwhelming task for beginners, but fear not – there are a few key factors to consider: 

1. Size: Cigars come in a variety of shapes and sizes, from petite coronas to hefty Churchills. Consider how much time you have to smoke and choose accordingly.  Coronas can typically be smoked in around 30 minutes.  Robustos, which are the preferred size here at Stave & Slide, are thicker and slightly longer than coronas and can take anywhere from 45 minutes to over an hour while some Churchills can take over an hour and a half to finish.

 2. Strength: Pay attention to the cigar's strength rating, ranging from mild to full-bodied, to ensure a smoking experience that matches your preferences.  Lighter colored Connecticut Shade wrapped cigars will be more mild and mellow in flavor while darker maduro’s will be much stronger and have a fuller more nuanced flavor profile.  This is very similar to bourbon in that lower proof bourbons are often mellow, easy drinkers; however, they typically lack the depth and flavor characteristics of longer aged, higher proof, single barrel bourbons.  The former can be a good first choice for someone new to bourbon such as a Basil Hayden’s.  The same goes for cigars.  A new cigar smoker will likely prefer a mild cigar with a Connecticut shade wrapper such as a Macanudo Cafe before delving into fuller bodied maduros like the Oliva Serie V Melanio.

3. Flavor: Experiment with different flavor profiles to discover what resonates with you. Don't be afraid to ask for recommendations at your local cigar shop – they're there to help.  Some cigars have a slight sweet flavor like the Deadwood Tobacco Co. Fat bottom Betty’s by Drew Estate.  Not technically an infused cigar but a nice, sweet flavor that can be very approachable for a newcomer even though it’s a full-bodied smoke.

  Smoking a cigar is about more than just the act itself – it's a ritualistic experience that demands attention and appreciation. From the careful cutting and lighting to the slow, deliberate puffing, every step of the process contributes to the enjoyment and satisfaction of the smoke.  You enjoy a cigar with intent and purpose, just as you would a 28-day aged rib eye in a fine steak house vs. grabbing a fast-food burger on the go.  Take your time and savor the experience, each puff is another opportunity to relax, be mindful and present in the moment. 

  As you embark on your journey into the world of cigars, remember that it's not just about the smoke – it's about the camaraderie, the conversation, and the moments of reflection that accompany it. So, take your time, explore different blends and brands, and above all, savor the experience. We look forward to sharing in this rich tradition with you as you discover your favorite cigars, flavors, and pairings of smoke, spirits, friends, and memories.  Cheers to the journey ahead!