Seven different tobaccos from six different countries were incorporated into the final blend of the PSyKo Seven Connecticut Toro, including an Ecuadorian Connecticut wrapper, a Dominican San Vicente binder and a “multi-county blend” of tobaccos used in the filler. Packaged in boxes of 20, the new regular production blend is rolled at in the Dominican Republic at Davidoff’s Occidental Cigar Factory.
Read our review below, or shop now to enjoy this cigar for yourself.
The start of the Connecticut opens up with a note of delicate hazelnut, some cream and a little hint of earth.
The Middle
Aromatic charred leaf is there swirling around the mouth. Retrohaling unveils a big hit of pepper that is fleeting yet satisfying.
The End
Once you get to the final third I was experiencing butterscotch, which is similar to the cream in the first third, but is a little bit boozier. Cured woodiness while espresso coffee provides depth. Am I smoking a Tiramisu? Maybe.
Burn & Draw
The cigar’s spine is quite impressive and a testament to its construction. Breaking off the ash by hand in the second third revealed a small mound of ember, which shows that the leaves have been properly aligned. Credit to the roller.
The cigar provides an overall cool smoke with a pleasant draw. For those concerned about a tight draw, it opens up nicely by the middle of the first third.
Overall
Overall the Connecticut is a wonderfully mild cigar that’s reminiscent of some of Davidoff’s finest creations yet far more accessible at this price.
Ross Rating: 7/10
What alcoholic drink would I pair the PSyKo Seven Connecticut Toro Cigar with?
This Speyside single malt has been matured in a combination of American oak casks and a variety of sherry casks. This is a fruity, rich whisky with aromas of raisins, orange and vanilla. The palate offers notes of dried fruits, warm spices and rich caramel.
What soft drink would I pair the PSyKo Seven Connecticut Toro Cigar with?
Cherry Coca-Cola really hits the spot with this cigar.
Would I smoke the PSyKo Seven Connecticut Toro Cigar again?
It’s a great breakfast or day smoke so whenever I want a cigar first thing I will go for this beauty. I had an enjoyable time smoking it and will again in the near future.
Cigar Smoking Icons: Nick Jonas
14 September 2023 by Ellie
Nick Jonas probably isn’t the first person you think of when you imagine a cigar smoking icon. He’s a clean cut, boy band member and Disney star. And he’s only 28 years old.
But he’s helping bring cigar smoking into the mainstream thanks to a high-profile feature in Cigar Aficionado magazine. Find out how much Nick has already achieved in life and how he became a fan of cigars – then buy some of his favourite cigars online.
Early Life
Nick was born in 1992 and grew up in New Jersey along with his two older brothers, Kevin and Joe. His musical career began at a very young age – he was discovered singing in a hair salon at just six years old. A year later, he was performing on Broadway.
When he was 10, Nick wrote a song which caught the attention of Columbia Records, leading to his first solo album. Kevin and Joe made a guest appearance on one of the tracks and the rest is history…
The Jonas Brothers
Nick, Kevin and Joe were signed as a group called The Jonas Brothers but were dropped from their label shortly after releasing their first album. However, they were quickly snapped up by Disney’s Hollywood Records and started a new chapter as Disney Channel stars.
The teen brothers made their acting debut alongside Miley Cyrus in an episode of ‘Hannah Montana’. Their own TV show, a hit film called ‘Camp Rock’ and a lucrative 3D concert documentary soon followed, plus a few number one albums. They also became the youngest band to appear on the cover of Rolling Stone. But clouds were gathering.
Going Solo
In 2013, the Jonas Brothers called it quits over creative differences. Nick continued as a solo artist, scoring a Top 10 hit in 2014. He was awarded the Hal David Starlight Award in the Songwriters Hall of Fame and featured in Forbes’s ‘30 Under 30’ list.
Although the Jonas Brothers reunited in 2019, Nick has continued to establish himself individually. He joined The Voice as a vocal coach, starred in a Hollywood blockbuster and hosted SNL.
Nick broke another record when he became the first person under 30 to appear on the cover of Cigar Aficionado magazine. He’d made no secret of his wish to feature in the publication but always assumed he was too young.
Despite being open about his love of cigars, many of his fans were still shocked.
Nick’s interest in cigars came from watching his tour crew smoking them and hearing them talk about the craftsmanship involved. When he eventually decided to try one, he dived in at the deep end with a robust Ashton VSG. His favourites now include Fuentes, Camacho Corojos and various fat Cubans. Smoking a cigar, preferably with a coffee or tequila, is how he likes to unwind when he’s not busy being a star.
And for anyone who thinks he’s an unlikely cigar icon? As Nick says, “there shouldn’t be any barriers around who can enjoy them.”
If you want to buy cigars online, check out our store and choose a robust Cuban smoke like Nick Jonas.
El Septimo is a cigar brand that was founded in France in 2005 but was acquired by Zaya Younan in 2019 to reinfuse the brand with an extra sense of luxury and provide the world with an exquisite new collection of smokes to enjoy. In celebration of the return of El Septimo to Havana House, we explore the history and cigars this brand has to offer.
El Septimo Origins
El Septimo was founded in 2005 in France, although they later relocated their headquarters to Switzerland. They prided themselves as a luxury brand on producing high-quality and innovative smokes. El Septimo took a hands-on approach to crafting their luxurious cigars, developing their own tobacco plantation in the mountains of San Jose, Costa Rica.
What Does El Septimo Mean?
The name ‘El Septimo’ is Latin for ‘the seventh’, in reference to the seventh day of the creation story in the Bible. In the book of Genesis, God created the earth in six days and, on the seventh day, rested. With this rest day in mind, the El Septimo brand was created with the intent of relaxation and luxury.
El Septimo Acquisition by the Younan Collection
In 2019, the El Septimo brand was acquired by Zaya Younan, the CEO of Younan Collection, an international investment firm. Younan Collection owns a number of luxury hotels, resorts, wineries and golf courses, so acquiring a cigar brand is the logical next step for their portfolio to curate a luxury lifestyle.
Since taking on the El Septimo brand, a number of new cigar ranges have been released, including the Zaya Collection, Emperor Collection, Luxus Collection, Sacred Arts Collection and Gilgamesh Collection.
El Septimo Cigar Production
El Septimo uses the entire tobacco leaf throughout their cigars for a rich and full flavour, as each cigar is hand-rolled with 100% long filler tobacco using the Entubar Method.
For an enhanced tasting experience, the tobacco fermentation process includes the addition of white rum and vegetable oil, which helps to draw out extra flavour from this full-bodied smoke. The vegetable oil also gives a luxurious look to these cigars, making them a deliciously appealing smoke.
El Septimo Tobacco
Costa Rica provides the perfect conditions for growing tobacco, with a tropical climate, fertile soil and high altitudes. El Septimo grow their tobacco in Costa Rica with precision farming techniques to boost their crop yield.
Wrapper leaves are grown at high altitudes, which gives the cigars a silky texture with a rich, deep shade and flavourful taste.
El Septimo Cigars are completely organic, with zero preservatives or chemicals added, and are free of nitrosamines, tars, and impurities.
El Septimo Blends
The El Septimo brand now features over 45 blends, each hand-rolled and checked with strict quality control. The precise blend and age of tobacco used varies across the collections, as well as the amount of filler used. Usually, their cigars use tobacco that has been aged between seven and fifteen years, and between three and five filler tobaccos will be used.
El Septimo Zaya Collection
In celebration of the new owner of El Septimo, the Zaya Collection is blended from a selection of high-quality tobaccos aged up to 15 years. Each cigar in the Zaya Collection is rolled with five fillers, giving them larger ring gauges as they are packed with so much tobacco. As a result, these are complexly flavourful smokes.
Each cigar in the Zaya Collection features a dark, shiny and stain-free wrapper. They are medium and full-bodied cigars, offering an intense leather aroma, balanced strength and smooth, rich finish. Providing a complex range of flavours, from sweet marzipan and vanilla to bitter roasted walnuts.
The Emperor Collection celebrates Emperors from history, including Napoleon, Augustus Ceasar and Alexander III. The collection includes cigars with Connecticut or Maduro wrappers, with some cigars available in both formats. The tobacco in the Emperor Collection has been aged for five years before being hand-rolled. These cigars are mostly lighter-bodied, smoother and creamier than other offerings from El Septimo.
The Luxus Collection is the most diverse range from El Septimo – in fact, we bet you have never seen cigars like some of these before! Comprising of ten tobacco lines, each aged for ten years and matured for up to a year, the Luxus Collection includes some of the brand’s bestsellers.
The cigars in the Luxus Collection range from 2-inch speedy smokes to tasty Torpedos. Regardless of size, the cigars in this collection all offer a velvety smoke with a refined aroma. They each have oily, supple, dark wrappers and offer full draws with plenty of depth.
The Sacred Arts Collection takes inspiration from the art world, with each cigar named after some of the world’s best painters. These cigars come in traditional size formats, including Toro, Robusto, Lancero, Torpedo and Salomon. Cigars in the Sacred Arts Collection are medium-bodied and have been aged for ten years.
Cigars in this collection include the Van Gogh, Rembrandt, Da Vinci and Botticelli.
El Septimo Gilgamesh Collection
The Gilgamesh Collection has been created to symbolise one of the oldest stories in existence based on historical records of the Assyrian King Gilgamesh. Cigars in this collection range from medium to full-bodied. Each cigar is 6 inches or over with a ring gauge of 50 or over, providing a longer smoking experience. As you light a cigar from the Gilgamesh Collection, you’ll notice a milder start than other El Septimo cigars, as these offer a more gradual pace of smoking.
Cigar Review: Foundation Charter Oak CT Broadleaf Toro
4 September 2023 by Ellie
Master Blender Nick Melillo has been around tobacco all his life, a charmed existence indeed, culminating in the remarkable Charter Oak CT Broadleaf Toro cigar. Gifted with an innate taste for good longleaf, Melillo wasn’t long out of school before finding himself at Drew Estate, where he would rise to VP.
The desire to create his own brands necessitated a gracious departure, and soon, the Foundation Cigar Company was started in the same lush tobacco-growing region of Connecticut where Melillo grew up, which also happens to be the source of the magnificent Broadleaf wrapper that so gracefully covers the rich Nicaraguan filler at the core of each vitola.
About Foundation Charter Oak CT Broadleaf Toro Cigar
Owner: Foundation Factory: Tabacos Valle de Jalapa (TABSA) Origin: Nicaragua Wrapper: Connecticut Broadleaf Binder: Nicaraguan Habano Filler: Nicaragua (Esteli, Jalapa) Strength: Medium – Full Size: Toro (6 x 52)
Reviewed by: Ross from the Windsor shop
The Beginning
From the very start, it’s nice and nutty. The nuts remain dominant as cocoa notes begin to emerge as the first third comes to a close. The retrohale serves pumped-up notes of spice that last for a long time.
The Middle
In the middle of the cigar, the nuts and spice notes remain, as a coffee note becomes dominant by the halfway point. As the second third comes to a close, the mix of the flavours above works very well together.
The End
Towards the end sees the cigar come together, with subtle notes of dark cocoa, nuts and coffee. None of them stands out alone, but take turns appearing as some pepper tones develop on the retrohale of the cigar and the long finish continues.
Burn & Draw
Couldn’t ask much more from the burn as it was ever so sharp the entire way. The ash held on in about three-quarter-inch increments. The draw had just the right amount of resistance that I prefer.
Overall
A Connecticut broadleaf providing rich dankness and all the right spices, I just found my go to broadleaf cigar. I want people to give this cigar a try. Nick has created another great blend to add to the already incredible lineup at Foundation. Very impressive!
Ross Rating: 9/10
What alcoholic drink would I pair the Foundation Charter Oak CT Broadleaf Toro Cigar with?
A fruity mandarin-infused mezcal from Dangerous Don, Mandarina is double distilled and steeped with freshly-peeled fruit for a day before a third and final distillation. The palate offers notes of sweet agave, green grass, soft smoke and tangy mandarin that linger in the finish.
What soft drink would I pair the Foundation Charter Oak CT Broadleaf Toro Cigar with?
Sprite is all you need.
Would I smoke the Foundation Charter Oak CT Broadleaf Toro Cigar again?
Foundation cigars really deliver all things Nicaraguan and very well. This Toro ticks all the boxes, you can tell it was blended with this size in mind. For a sub-£20 Toro, this is incredible.
Top 10 Cigars For New Cigar Smokers
31 August 2023 by Ellie
Like any new hobby, knowing where to begin when it comes to cigar smoking can sometimes be a little daunting. If you have decided you would like to join the wonderful world of cigar smoking, then one of the biggest hurdles can be deciding which cigar is the right one to make your first time enjoyable! As this is such an important yet difficult decision, we have put together our guide to the top ten cigars perfectly suited to new smokers.
As a newcomer, you probably won’t be fully aware of what makes a great starter cigar. It can be difficult to know what to look for when selecting what to begin with, and with so many brands, wrappers, colours, smells and sizes, trying to make a decision unaided can prove a little overwhelming. However, it is all of these factors that make a cigar so special and luxurious, and over time, you will learn not only to differentiate between them but also which ones are your favourites!
To help you get started on your stogie journey, we have put together what we consider to be the top ten cigars for smokers new to the cigar world!
Made solely from tobacco, cigars tend to be significantly stronger than what you may be used to from cigarettes or pipes. Rather than jumping straight into the deep end, it is important to start off with a light and mild yet flavourful stogie, which is perfect for beginners, such as the ones below.
Cohiba Siglo I Cigar
The Cohiba Siglo I Cigar was introduced in 1992 to celebrate the 500th anniversary of Colombus’ discovery of the New World!
The Cohiba Siglo I cigar itself is a tiny Corona and is very similar in taste to the other coronas in the Siglo line. The Siglo I’s flavour profile consists of a creamy sweetness, to begin with, followed by coffee bean and mocha flavours with a medium tobacco taste.
Montecristo No.3 Cigar
Montecristo is a premium cigar brand with some truly exceptional cigars on offer in its collection. The No.2 is often considered to be the world’s best cigar, and the No. 4 is a best seller around the world, so the Montecristo No. 3 is certainly in good company.
While Montecristo is generally more tailored to the experienced cigar fan, the Montecristo #3 is one of the milder stogies in their range. These cigars guarantee a good draw and burns evenly, making it an uncomplicated smoke, with great coffee flavours.
La Invicta Nicaraguan Shorts Cigar
When you’re first starting out with cigars, all of the tools and techniques for enjoying your smoke can be overwhelming to get your head around. This is why a machine-made cigar can be a good choice, as they come pre-cut and ready to be lit.
The La Invicta Nicaraguan Shorts Cigar is a fantastic choice if you’re after a convenient pre-cut smoke. It offers a robust yet mellow aroma, a trait associated with the La Invicta brand. The Nicaraguan Shorts can be enjoyed in around 15-20 minutes, making this a short smoke ideal for newcomers as well as time-restricted seasoned pros.
Juliany Corojo Corona Cigar
A budget-friendly option for those who don’t want to splash out when trying cigars for the first time, the Juliany Corojo Corona Cigar is a fantastic choice for both novice smokers and aficionados alike. With a short smoke time, mild strength, and fresh taste, these are ideal for new cigar smokers.
Drew Estate Acid Blondie Cigar
While there are a lot of flavour profiles across the cigar world, cigars usually offer tastes that fall within the categories of spicy, bitter, earthy or nutty. The Drew Estate Acid Blondie Cigar is super sweet and smooth, which isn’t a typical flavour for cigars but may be appreciated by some newbies to cigar smoking.
Partagas Petit Corona Especiales Cigar
The Partagas Petit Corona Especiales packs a mighty punch and a delicious flavour profile that is a great cigar to light up in the early evening with a good cup of coffee.
Partagas are loved the world over, as not only does the brand produce an exquisite range of well-blended and complex cigars, but the founder, Jaime Partagas, is responsible for developing the maturation method of tobacco that has been adopted by most Cuban cigar brands today!
H. Upmann Half Corona Cigar
When you’re just starting out with cigars, you probably don’t want to be dedicating hours of your time to a smoke – you want something short and sweet to test the waters!
The H. Upmann Half Corona is the perfect one for this, taking only around 30 minutes to smoke from start to finish. Within this shorter cigar is a well-balanced and flavourful smoke.
You’ll start with sweet, floral notes that offer creamy hints, which develop into coffee notes as you smoke it. It is complex, with a great draw, making it a fantastic smoke for new and experienced smokers alike.
Montecristo Open J Cigar
A fresh, light and gentle cigar, the Montecristo Open J Cigar is a fine option for those seeking a beginner’s smoke from one of the best Cuban cigar brands. Montecristo is typically known for punchier, bold and strong smokes, so this medium-strength option offers a gentler experience for novice smokers. Measuring only 4 3/8″ x 38, this will be a quicker smoke, which can be appreciated by newer smokers.
Punch Petit Coronations Tubos Cigar
The Punch Petit Coronations cigar is mild in flavour and strength, with woody and fruity notes present throughout. It is a delightful smoke for all experiences, but its mildness makes it perfectly suited to beginners.
Camacho Machitos Orange Connecticut Cigar
This beautiful little cigar is the perfect smoke for when time is of the essence, featuring a Connecticut wrapper and a blend of Dominican and Honduran long-fillers that give way to flavours of spice, cedar and vanilla.
The Camacho Machitos Orange Connecticut Cigars have the exact blends as their larger counterparts and are available in Connecticut, Corojo, and Criollo. Pick up a pack and take them on your next weekend away – we personally take them on our camping trips, and as the weather warms up, there’s no excuse for you not to do the same!
All of these smokes for beginners are available for you to buy cigars online here at Havana House!
Which Cigars Burn the Slowest?
18 August 2023 by Ellie
Every smoker looks for something slightly different when on the hunt for their ideal cigar. Some may look for a stronger cigar, whereas others may focus on finding one with specific caramel flavours, for example. Not focussing on the specifics of taste, other cigar smokers will rather consider the time it takes for the cigar to be smoked.
Again, this is an area down to preference and context, as some will rather a quicker smoke, especially in the winter months when needing to smoke outside, whereas others will want to sit back and relax with a cigar, dedicating their time and attention to the luxuriousness of their smoke. For those people, we have created a guide to some of the slowest burning cigars that can provide a long smoke (and for quick smokers, a list of cigars to avoid!).
What Impacts How Fast a Cigar Burns?
The burn rate of cigars can be influenced by various factors, including the type of tobacco, the way the cigar is rolled, and the environmental conditions in which it is smoked. Generally, cigars with certain characteristics tend to burn slower than others:
Large and Thick Cigars: Larger and thicker cigars usually have more tobacco, and thus, they tend to burn slower than thinner cigars.
Tightly Packed Cigars: Cigars that are tightly rolled and well-constructed can burn more slowly as the tobacco is packed more densely, resulting in a slower burn.
Aged Cigars: Aged cigars can have a more refined and slower burn due to the maturation process of the tobacco, which can impact the combustion rate.
Premium Cigars: High-quality cigars made from top-tier tobacco are often better crafted and can burn more evenly and slowly.
Wrapper Leaf: The type of wrapper leaf used can also play a role. Maduro wrappers, for example, tend to burn slower than some lighter wrapper types.
Keep in mind that the slow burn rate of a cigar is also affected by how it is smoked. A slower, gentle puffing rhythm can help maintain a steady burn, while excessive or irregular puffing might cause it to burn faster.
Cigars With Long Smoke Times
Cohiba Maduro 5 Magicos Cigars
Cigars with Maduro wrappers offer up a full-bodied and flavourful smoke, which, when added to a thicker cigar, provides a smooth, yet long smoking experience. One of the best slow-burning Maduro cigars is the Cohiba Maduro 5 Magicos Cigar.
Despite being fairly short, at 4 ½ inches, it is the width of a cigar that has an impact on the smoke time, so the 52 ring gauge of this Cohiba Magicos cigar is set to smoke for around an hour. The rich roasted tobacco notes of this cigar will certainly make the longer smoking time worth it.
Partagas Lusitanias
As a brand, Partagas produce some of the most intense smokes, presenting strong flavours and packing a punch with each puff. As such, they tend to be reserved for more experienced smokers, but these qualities also make Partagas cigars the perfect choice for a longer smoke. With such strong flavours, you won’t want to rush through it. Luckily, Partagas tend to be built for this, offering up a smoke time of at least an hour.
The Partagas Lusitanias begins floral and sweet before imparting layers of leather, cedar, spice and almonds. Many smokers report spending over two hours with this cigar. Measuring a whopping 7 ⅝ inches long with a 49 ring gauge, it’s no wonder this is a cigar to savour.
Padron Series 1926 No. 9 Maduro
This premium cigar from Padron is renowned for its slow and even burn, thanks to its meticulous construction and aged Nicaraguan tobaccos. The Padron Series 1926 No. 9 Maduro is a complex smoke with perfect balance, showing flavours of chocolate, coffee and nuts, as well as some black cherry.
With a ring gauge of 56, this is a thick cigar, which takes around 60-90 minutes to smoke.
Slow Down Your Smoke
If you would rather stick to the stogies you usually smoke, making small changes to your smoking style can elongate the time you have with each cigar. Smoking too quickly can cause a number of problems, leaving your cigars with a bitter taste, or burning through too quickly to properly savour all of the complex flavours. Smoking a cigar too fast can also make it burn too hot, which can cause damage to your taste buds, further reducing the amount of flavour you experience.
Slowing down your smoke by letting the cigar rest for a minute or two after each small puff can be really beneficial. Not only does it give you a chance to pick up the flavours more, but it gives the cigar a chance to cool down, both slowing down the rate at which it burns and helping it to burn evenly.
Cigar Review: Kristoff Pistoff Robusto
1 August 2023 by Ellie
We tried the Kristoff Pistoff Robusto Cigar to explore the smoking experience it offers. Read our review below, or shop now to enjoy this cigar for yourself.
Originally launched in the summer of 2016, the Pistoff Kristoff line was said to be the fullest in the company’s portfolio, yet owner Glen Case repeated several times that it also packed a good amount of flavour and smoothness. As for the name, that came from a customer who pitched the idea of the Pissed Off Kristoff. Case liked the sound but not the spelling; he simply adjusted it, and the cigar was born.
About The Kristoff Pistoff Robusto Cigar
Owner: Glen Case Factory: Kristoff/Exclusive Cigars Origin: Dominican Republic Wrapper: Mexican San Andrés Binder: Indonesian Filler: Nicaraguan Strength: Full Size: Robusto (5 1/2 x 54)
Reviewed by: Ross from the Windsor shop
The Beginning
A straight cut with the Dupont, and off we go! The cigar starts with a nutty flavour with hints of brown sugar and toffee. The retrohale adds some more sweetness that lingers long on the finish. The first third comes to a close with hints of toast.
The Middle
As we move into the middle, the toasty quality that ended the beginning is in full effect as it serves as the dominant note, with some subtle sweetness in the background. The retrohale serves up a faint floral component, with a touch of liquorice and cinnamon.
The End
Towards the final throes, the Pistoff Kristoff sees the liquorice notes carry over the palate, with some pepper and spice starting to show up in abundance on the retrohale. The finish is moderate to long in length, with a slightly earthy feel to it.
Burn & Draw
Construction of the Pistoff Kristoff was decent. I had over an inch of ash most of the time, a very good draw, and an even burn line. The draw had a slight pull to it; I wouldn’t want it to be open when the cigar is this full-on.
Overall
While the Pistoff started off medium-to-full, by the time I got to the second third, it was definitely in the full-bodied range, with plenty of earth and espresso upfront, and toffee, toast and liquorice carrying the secondary roles.
The pepper spice was a constant, but low level, burn on the palate and nose. The last third carried on with rich flavours of earth and coffee, mellowed out a bit by some dried fruit sweetness and further liquorice. The pepper notes never really peaked above an afterthought.
Ross Rating: 8/10
What alcoholic drink would I pair the Kristoff Pistoff Robusto Cigar with?
An exquisite blend of brandies, some of which have aged for more than 20 years in oak casks, previously containing premium Sherry wines, Olorosos and Amontillados. This is a brandy of extraordinary quality and aromatic complexity. I still can’t believe this XO brandy is £65, incredible stuff.
What soft drink would I pair the Kristoff Pistoff Robusto Cigar with?
Dr Pepper is the king for cigars like this. Sparkling mineral water would also work well if you want to clean things up a little bit.
Would I smoke the Kristoff Pistoff Robusto Cigar again?
When I read about cigars like this, I always think they are going to blow my socks off, but they rarely do. The Kristoff gives intense flavours, and the strength you feel is more from the robust body of flavour. Sure, I would love to smoke another one.
Cigars vs Pipes – What’s the Difference?
24 July 2023 by Ellie
Cigars and pipes both offer smokers a way of consuming tobacco, but what is the difference? The way cigars and pipe tobacco are produced, prepared and smoked are all different, and learning about these variations could help you find a new smoking experience to enjoy. Many smokers switch between pipes and cigars periodically to enjoy the different experiences each offer.
We take a look at tobacco pipe smoking vs cigar smoking so you can discover how these two ways of smoking differ.
What is the Difference Between Cigars and Pipes?
Cigars are tightly rolled bundles of tobacco leaves wrapped in a tobacco leaf wrapper. They typically have a cylindrical shape, with a closed end (the “head” or “cap”) that is cut before smoking.
Pipes consist of a bowl, a stem, and a mouthpiece. The bowl is filled with loose pipe tobacco, which is lit, and the smoker draws the smoke through the stem and mouthpiece.
A cigar is made entirely of tobacco, while a pipe needs to be filled with loose tobacco.
How Are Cigar and Pipe Tobacco Prepared?
Cigars are typically made by bunching together long-filler tobacco leaves, which are the interior leaves of the tobacco plant, and then rolling them in a binder and wrapper leaf. They are usually ready to smoke as they are and require no further preparation, although some choose to further age their cigars in a humidor.
Pipe tobacco is generally sold in loose form or as pre-formed plugs or flakes. Pipe smokers need to fill their pipe bowls with the desired amount of tobacco and then tamp it down lightly.
What’s the Difference Between Cigar and Pipe Tobacco?
On the whole, cigar tobacco will be of better quality and more expensive. A great deal of effort goes into cultivating and processing tobacco for cigars, as the outer leaves need to be perfect to be used as a wrapper. Premium cigars will be made using the finest tobacco. On the other hand, unless it is for a limited-edition or premium tobacco range, pipe tobacco tends to be a little cheaper.
Cigars are also often made using a blend of tobacco from different harvests and even different countries. Whether this be a mix of filler tobaccos, or a filler tobacco from one country and a wrapper from another, the mixture of tobacco types in a cigar makes for a complex and flavourful smoke. Pipe tobacco will have two key variations; regular and aromatic. Aromatic tobaccos will have a flavour added to them during the curing process, providing an extra scent, such as vanilla or cherry. Regular pipe tobacco will only feature the natural tobacco taste.
The size of the tobacco also differs, as pipe tobacco is usually cut fairly finely to be packed into the pipe. Cigars will instead often use whole leaves, concertinaed in the filler, as well as the whole exterior wrapper leaf.
Cigar and Pipe Smoking Tools
One slight difference between cigars and pipes is the equipment needed to smoke them. For a cigar, the absolute essentials will be a cigar cutter, lighter and an ashtray.
For pipe smoking, you will obviously need to buy a pipe! You’ll be able to find a decent pipe for around £40; however, a lot of quality pipes will cost a lot more, with prices running into the thousands! To smoke a pipe, you will also need matches or a lighter, a pipe cleaner and possibly a pipe rest.
How Does the Smoking Experience Differ Between Cigars and Pipes?
Cigars are usually smoked by drawing the smoke into the mouth, allowing it to linger, and then exhaling. The smoking experience is characterised by slow, deliberate puffs that allow the flavours and aromas of the tobacco to develop.
Pipe smoking involves a slower and more deliberate process compared to cigars. Pipe smokers often use a technique called “sipping” or “sipping and puffing,” where they draw small amounts of smoke into the mouth and then puff to keep the tobacco lit. This method helps maintain a cooler smoke and enhances the flavour nuances.
What’s the Difference in Flavour and Aroma for Cigars and Pipe Smoking?
Cigars come in a wide variety of shapes, sizes, and flavours. The tobacco blends used in cigars can range from mild to full-bodied, and they often have distinct flavour profiles influenced by factors like the origin of the tobacco and the ageing process.
Pipe tobacco also comes in a wide range of flavours and blends. Different types of tobacco, such as Virginia, Burley, or Latakia, are combined to create various taste experiences. Pipes are known for providing a fuller range of flavours due to the way the tobacco is burned and the way the smoke is channelled through the pipe.
Cigars are often designed to develop in flavour as they are smoked. The initial notes can be quite different from the finish, and tastes and aromas will change in complexity and depth throughout the smoking experience. Conversely, pipes will typically provide a more uniform smoking experience, as the tobacco used is not rolled and will usually come from the same batch.
What Maintenance Do Cigars and Pipes Need?
If you are looking to take up cigar or pipe smoking, then both hobbies require a little maintenance. For cigars, if you are looking to purchase a box of cigars, collect cigars, or just have a few too many to smoke at once, then you will need to invest in a humidor. A humidor is needed to keep your cigars at the ideal humidity and temperature. Without it, the cigars can become brittle and dry or soggy and wet – both outcomes leaving the cigar unsmokeable.
For pipes, you will need to find the perfect balance between building cake in your pipe and keeping it clean. ‘Cake’ is a layer of carbon that forms in the pipe and helps to protect your pipe, allowing it to last a lot longer. When cleaning out your pipe, you must avoid scraping, as this can remove the ‘cake’. Getting this right can take a little practice.
What is the Difference in Cost for Cigars and Pipes?
Many assume that cigars will be the most expensive of the two smoking hobbies. Ultimately, it is down to your personal preferences and choices when it comes to brands and luxury vs budget.
It is hard to directly compare the costs of pipes vs cigars. Pipe smoking is often more of an investment to start with, with pipes costing upwards of £30-40 (many premium pipes will be in the hundreds); however, pipe tobacco can be found relatively inexpensively and can be portioned out as desired.
For cigars, there are fewer upfront costs, although cigars can be a little pricier per smoke than a pipe if you choose premium brands. However, when you consider that one cigar can contain the same amount of tobacco as a whole pack of cigarettes, around £15 per cigar doesn’t seem too bad! Cigars can, of course, start costing a lot more if you find yourself getting into limited-edition smokes, collecting or having a taste for top premium brands.
The Chateau Diadem cigar factory is located in Navarrete, only a few minutes away from the largest and most famous factories in the region.
The tobacco leaves come from Nicaragua, Dominican Republic and Ecuador and are carefully selected by the master blender and his team. These are dried with the greatest care and then undergo several fermentations, in order to obtain the best aromas. “CONVICTION” is an invitation for the senses, offering a subtle tasting, rich in aromas and wonderfully complex with a beautiful evolution.
I cut the cigar with the Colibri V cut and light it up with matches. It’s a pleasant day, and I am very much looking forward to a cigar. This is nice and creamy straight away. There are hints of cocoa and hazelnut, I feel like I’m having an encounter with a jar of Nutella at 2am.
The Middle
Cocoa transitions to coffee with a little earth in the background. The cigar is delivering all these flavours in a delicate manner. I don’t like it when the flavours pound your palate, I prefer fleeting or long-lasting notes that bless you instead, and this cigar is doing just that.
The End
Intensity increases, and it’s a bundle of everything I have tasted previously. The earthy notes are more at the forefront now, and I slow down to make sure I don’t overheat the cigar. I did want to keep going, but sadly I was starting to burn my fingers!
Burn & Draw
The burn line is straight as an arrow from start to finish. Construction is to a very high standard with a pleasant draw resistance.
Overall
I like it when a cigar has some secrets, and the Chateau Diadem really does. It kept me guessing all the way through. You can feel that a lot of love has gone into the blend, and the end result is a very good smoke.
Ross Rating: 8/10
What alcoholic drink would I pair the Chateau Diadem Conviction Robusto with?
I have been trying lots of Mezcal recently, and I have found one that works so well with cigars.
A herbaceous, fruity mezcal from Lost Explorer that is made exclusively with Espadin agave, creating notes of dewy garden herbs, crunchy apples and soft smoke throughout the palate.
What soft drink would I pair the Chateau Diadem Conviction Robusto with?
You just can’t beat a classic Coca-Cola with a cigar like this.
Would I smoke the Chateau Diadem Conviction Robusto again?
I thought this cigar was going to be a real hooligan, but it’s a true gent of a cigar. I will be smoking these weekly over the summer.
Beginner’s Guide to Smoking a Pipe
27 June 2023 by Ellie
Smoking a pipe can be an enjoyable and relaxing hobby. Pipe smoking has a rich history dating back centuries, with tobacco pipes being enjoyed by smokers around the world.
Whether you’re a complete beginner or a seasoned pipe enthusiast who wants to brush up on their skills, this guide will provide you with all the essential information about smoking tobacco pipes.
How to Choose a Tobacco Pipe
Pipes come in all shapes, sizes and materials. Whether it be the Billiard, Apple or Calabash, it allows for a comfortable hang from the mouth; whilst the contemporary classic, the Poker, has acquired a cult following due to its intriguing, rigid shaping.
Tobacco pipes have been made from such materials as corn cobs, clay and Meerschaum over the years, but the most common material would be the root from the Briar wood, an evergreen shrub found in the Mediterranean. The root is chosen because of its natural heat-resisting and moisture absorption properties and after curing, its inability to taint the flavour of the pipe tobacco.
Briar pipes are recommended for beginners due to their durability and heat-resistant qualities.
Take a look at our guide to tobacco pipes to uncover the style of pipe that appeals to you most.
Best Pipe Tobacco for Beginners UK
There are countless pipe tobacco blends to choose from, each offering a different flavour and aroma. As a beginner, it’s best to start with a mild and straightforward blend.
Virginia tobacco is one of the most popular types for pipe smokers, and it is great for beginners, as it is so mild. It also contains the highest level of natural sugars of all blending tobacco types, which gives it a slightly sweet taste, which can be appreciated by novice smokers.
Gawith Hoggarth American Delight Pipe Tobacco – a blend of the finest quality Virginia and black Cavendish with a rich top note of cocoa, vanilla and fresh fruits. It is light to medium in strength and produces a rich sweet aroma.
What Kit Do You Need to Smoke a Tobacco Pipe?
To smoke a tobacco pipe, you will need a few essential items. Here’s a list of the basic kit for smoking a tobacco pipe:
Tobacco Pipe: Choose a pipe that suits your style and preferences.
Pipe Cleaners: These are thin, flexible brushes designed specifically for cleaning tobacco pipes. They help remove residue and moisture from the stem and shank of the pipe.
Pipe Tool: A pipe tool is a small instrument that typically combines a tamper, a scraper, and a pick. The tamper is used to pack the tobacco, the scraper helps clean the bowl, and the pick aids in clearing the draft hole or removing blockages.
Pipe Lighter or Matches: It’s recommended to use a pipe lighter or wooden matches for lighting a tobacco pipe. Regular lighters may affect the taste of the tobacco due to the chemicals used in the fuel.
Pipe Tobacco: Choose a quality pipe tobacco that suits your taste preferences. Pipe tobaccos come in various blends, such as aromatic, English, Virginia, or Burley. Experimenting with different blends can help you find your favourites.
Optional accessories include a pipe stand or rack for storing your pipe when not in use, a tobacco pouch or jar for keeping your tobacco fresh, and a pipe case or pouch for carrying your pipe when travelling.
How to Pack a Tobacco Pipe
Packing a tobacco pipe involves a specific technique to ensure an even burn and enjoyable smoking experience.
Prepare the Pipe
Ensure that your pipe is clean and free from any remnants of previous smokes. Use a pipe cleaner to clear any debris or moisture from the stem and shank.
Three Layer Method
There are various packing methods, but the most common one is the three-layer method. It involves the following steps:
Take a small pinch of loose pipe tobacco and add it to the pipe’s chamber. Ensuring it is loose and not too densely packed in, fill around half of the chamber with tobacco.
Add in another pinch of tobacco to the chamber, until it is around three-quarters full, before gently pressing down on the tobacco with a pipe tamper or your finger. Ensure you only gently remove the gaps, rather than crush the tobacco down.
Add another pinch of loose tobacco into the chamber until it reaches the rim of the chamber. Again press down on the tobacco, pushing the tobacco together to pack it again, avoiding compacting all of the tobacco. It should remain evenly against the rim of the chamber or slightly below it.
How to Light a Tobacco Pipe
Lighting your tobacco pipe usually comes in a couple of stages:
The First Light or Charring Light
Using your pipe lighter, hold the flame above the tobacco and move it in a circular motion. Take a couple of draws while lighting the pipe. The tobacco will become charred, not fully lit, and the first light almost always goes out – this stage is known as the charring light.
The charring light will go out, usually within less than a minute. Use a tamper to pack the tobacco down again, as this helps embers to form in the chamber of the bowl.
The True Light
Once the first light is out, you will need to light the pipe again. Take a couple of draws after the pipe has been lit to ensure it lights evenly. Try not to overdraw, as this can negatively affect the taste of the tobacco.
If your pipe was packed properly, it should remain lit throughout the duration of your smoke. You can occasionally pack the tobacco to keep the embers going.
Keeping the Pipe Lit
Sometimes, no matter how perfectly you’ve packed the bowl, the tobacco just struggles to stay lit. If you’re having that problem, you need to cover the bowl with your fingers, but leave a little hole for air to pass through. Take a few, quick, sharp puffs and then uncover the bowl – this is referred to as stoking the pipe.
To keep the pipe lit, you’ll need to puff routinely. Puffing too much can make the pipe get too hot, which can cause tongue bite. If the bowl of your pipe feels too hot to touch, you need to slow down the speed at which you are puffing.
Fixing Common Pipe Smoking Problems
Tobacco pipes, like any other smoking devices, can encounter a few common problems. Here are some potential issues you may face with tobacco pipes and suggestions for how to address them:
Clogged Tobacco Pipe Bowl
Over time, tobacco residue can accumulate in the bowl, leading to clogging. To fix this, try using a pipe tool or a pipe cleaner to gently scrape away the debris and clear the airway. Be cautious not to damage the pipe bowl in the process.
Moisture Buildup in Tobacco Pipes
Moisture can collect inside the stem and bowl, resulting in gurgling sounds and decreased smoking quality. To resolve this, consider using a pipe cleaner to remove any excess moisture and allow the pipe to dry thoroughly before using it again. Additionally, you may want to use a moisture trap or filter to absorb excess moisture during smoking.
Burnout or Cracks in Tobacco Pipes
Pipes made of low-quality materials or those exposed to excessive heat can develop burnout or cracks in the bowl. Unfortunately, this issue is challenging to fix, and the best solution is to replace the pipe. To prevent burnout or cracks, ensure you don’t overheat the pipe while smoking and choose pipes made of durable materials such as briar wood or meerschaum.
How to Stop Tongue Bite When Smoking a Pipe
Tongue bite refers to a burning sensation on the tongue caused by excessive heat or improper smoking technique. To alleviate this issue, slow down your smoking pace, ensure the tobacco is properly packed in the bowl, and use a filter or a cooling mouthpiece if necessary. Additionally, choosing milder tobacco blends or adjusting your packing technique can help reduce tongue bite.
Ghosting or Flavour Taint When Smoking a Pipe
Ghosting occurs when the taste of a previously smoked tobacco blend lingers in the pipe and affects subsequent smoking sessions. To address this, you can clean your pipe thoroughly using a pipe cleaner, alcohol-soaked cotton swabs, or pipe cleaning solutions. Regular cleaning and rotation between different tobacco blends can help prevent ghosting.
Remember, proper pipe maintenance and care are essential for enjoying a tobacco pipe to its fullest potential. Regular cleaning, avoiding excessive heat, and using quality tobacco and accessories can help minimise many of the common problems associated with pipe smoking.
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