Beginner Questions (Ask Them Here!)

[44stampede]

You could just pass them on to fellow BOTL's that would find any means to smoke the "real deal". :D

Forrest (golfnut) sells very nice draw tools, well worth the cost to smoke them CC's
Just tossed them all this morn. The taste was just too off to enjoy even if I could get a good draw.

The one one dipped in water and put in the fridge looked horrible. I didn't even light it up.

[coty]

I recently found a hookas tool that works really well for a draw pull. It is almost 6 inches long and is quite this so it will even work on a lancero. Might be worth trying if you have anywhere that sells hookas near by only cost me a buck. it's used to clean unclogg the steam of a hooka.

[coty]

it looks like this http://www.cigarasylum.com/vb/picture.php?albumid=847&pictureid=6629

[coty]

it looks like this but longer needle http://www.cigarasylum.com/vb/picture.php?albumid=847&pictureid=6629

[T.G]

The one one dipped in water and put in the fridge looked horrible. I didn't even light it up.

Good for you, you probably saved yourself a world of disappointment.

But I have to ask...

Where in the world did you hear to do something silly like that in the first place?

Why would you even expect that dipping a bunch of very tightly bound wrinkled up dead leaves in water would cause them to magically shift positions for a miraculous draw?

At best it won't change anything because nothing has been done to resolve the source of the problem, which is either too much or poorly placed tobacco. Wetting and drying will do nothing to alleviate this.

[44stampede]

Good for you, you probably saved yourself a world of disappointment.

But I have to ask...

Where in the world did you hear to do something silly like that in the first place?

Why would you even expect that dipping a bunch of very tightly bound wrinkled up dead leaves in water would cause them to magically shift positions for a miraculous draw?

At best it won't change anything because nothing has been done to resolve the source of the problem, which is either too much or poorly placed tobacco. Wetting and drying will do nothing to alleviate this.
Another BOTL suggested. Seemed to me as well that it wasn't even touching the problem. Maybe it was a joke and I fell for it. Who knows? I had nothing to lose as I was about to chuck them anyway so what the hey

[CigarNut]

Good for you, you probably saved yourself a world of disappointment.

But I have to ask...

Where in the world did you hear to do something silly like that in the first place?

Why would you even expect that dipping a bunch of very tightly bound wrinkled up dead leaves in water would cause them to magically shift positions for a miraculous draw?

At best it won't change anything because nothing has been done to resolve the source of the problem, which is either too much or poorly placed tobacco. Wetting and drying will do nothing to alleviate this.A few posts back in this same thread (http://www.cigarasylum.com/vb/showpost.php?p=1527163&postcount=1728).

I have not tried, but has been said it works from good source...

Soak cigar in cold water for a few seconds. Put immediately in fridge for about a week. The point is to prevent mold & ammonia; fridge takes out the water pretty well. Once completely dry, put in humidor and wait a few weeks until humid and normalized.

Figure, if the cigars are known to be tight, what is the risk? Would love to hear if anybody has tried this.

[T.G]

Another BOTL suggested. Seemed to me as well that it wasn't even touching the problem. Maybe it was a joke and I fell for it. Who knows? I had nothing to lose as I was about to chuck them anyway so what the hey

A few posts back in this same thread (http://www.cigarasylum.com/vb/showpost.php?p=1527163&postcount=1728).

Ah, I see.

I don't think he pranked you.

So sorry about the bad advice you were given and that the valid advice on the draw tool which will actually move/displace and remove the excess tobacco that is causing the problem came too late.

[jluck]

it looks like this http://www.cigarasylum.com/vb/picture.php?albumid=847&pictureid=6629

it looks like this but longer needle http://www.cigarasylum.com/vb/picture.php?albumid=847&pictureid=6629

Are you plying hard to get, coty?
http://img713.imageshack.us/img713/7898/worthlesswopics.jpg

[crazyirishman]

Guitar string straight through the middle and a little in and out motion helps me. Don't use the ones with the brass on them I'm pretty sure they would tear smoething up. I think it's the lowest string on the guitar that I'm using(I don't play so I have no real Idea of which it is).

That actually sounds like fine advice.

Just don't use your palm as the counter pressure from the head, otherwise you're bound to need a trip to the store to buy bandaids. Grip it from the sides.

That probably sounds like a no-brainer, but I've seen intelligent people do dumber things...

[kenstogie]

Guitar strings vary in diameter. I typically use "11's" on my acoustic. The lowest sounding string is called the "E" string and has ridges which I think would help with some airflow for a plugged cigar.

[smitty81]

Any tips to keep a cigar tasting fresh if you have to put it out for a while?

Like if you have to go and do something and your not done with it.

Usually after you leave them sit for a few minutes, they taste nasty when you relight.

[Remo]

Any tips to keep a cigar tasting fresh if you have to put it out for a while?

Like if you have to go and do something and your not done with it.

Usually after you leave them sit for a few minutes, they taste nasty when you relight.

Cut it off and purge it (blow out through it) won't be great when relit but it will work.

[ChicagoWhiteSox]

Any tips to keep a cigar tasting fresh if you have to put it out for a while?

Like if you have to go and do something and your not done with it.

Usually after you leave them sit for a few minutes, they taste nasty when you relight.

Purge before you leave.. Then purge again when you return to your cigar. Should be fine if you aren't away for too long.

[smitty81]

when you purge, do you purge while its lit or when its out or does it matter?

[Islayphile]

when you purge, do you purge while its lit or when its out or does it matter?

I'd do both

Purge right before you snip then purge again after

It can't hurt and certainly may help

[trendo]

As long as your cutter is sharp, just purge then clip. Just dont try to put it back into your humidor:)

[fencefixer]

I just ran into this (I've never shipped cigars before) so I figured I'd share, when printing shipping labels on USPS.com it'll say:


* I agree that I will present any items that are liquid, perishable or potentially hazardous to a postal employee for acceptance and that all fragile items are properly packaged. Any item containing cigarettes or smokeless tobacco must be presented to a Postal Service employee at a Retail Post Office location for proper acceptance. See DMM601.11.6.1a


I usually account for people's ignorance (thinking cigarettes count as cigars, etc.) however this does NOT apply towards cigars so it should be taken literally. Just print it and you're good to go!

[chippewastud79]

I just ran into this (I've never shipped cigars before) so I figured I'd share, when printing shipping labels on USPS.com it'll say:


* I agree that I will present any items that are liquid, perishable or potentially hazardous to a postal employee for acceptance and that all fragile items are properly packaged. Any item containing cigarettes or smokeless tobacco must be presented to a Postal Service employee at a Retail Post Office location for proper acceptance. See DMM601.11.6.1a


I usually account for people's ignorance (thinking cigarettes count as cigars, etc.) however this does NOT apply towards cigars so it should be taken literally. Just print it and you're good to go!

Or just answer 'No' to all their questions, never had an issue. :tu

[CigarNut]

Or just answer 'No' to all their questions, never had an issue. :tu
:tpd:

[fencefixer]

Is it considered rude to cigar bomb a senior member without warning if you're a beginner?
What's the best way to ship a bottle of beer and cigars in a flatrate box - lots of bubble wrap?
When shipping cigars, is it OK for cigars to be "on route" in a shipping box for several days? (Won't they dry out?)
Can cigar boxes be used as a humidor to some extent?

[T.G]

Is it considered rude to cigar bomb a senior member without warning if you're a beginner?
What's the best way to ship a bottle of beer and cigars in a flatrate box - lots of bubble wrap?
When shipping cigars, is it OK for cigars to be "on route" in a shipping box for several days? (Won't they dry out?)
Can cigar boxes be used as a humidor to some extent?



1. No. Just bear in mind the rules here regarding the sharing of addresses.
http://www.cigarasylum.com/vb/showthread.php?t=22634&highlight=sharing+addresses

2. Yup. The key is making sure nothing inside the box can move around at all. When they start moving around, the potential for damage goes up. Wrap each bottle individually, then place them in alternating directions across the bottom of the box, in other words, one bottle the cap points away from you, next it points towards you, then next one is away. Put the cigars in a small flat rate box and stick it inside the larger one (keeps the cigars from getting crushed). Use styrofoam blocks or better yet, more beer bottles, to wedge the Sm FLRB in place.

3. Sure. Just seal them in a ziploc bag and they will be fine for a week or two. Maybe longer depending on the time of year and what the box is exposed to.

4. Sometimes, but they often need minor modifications to make them seal well. Even the "humidor grade" cigar boxes can be hit and miss.

[fencefixer]

Thanks Adam!

Another question.. My Treasure Dome uses lid mounted humidifiers. The magnets keep coming off, I used some spray glue to glue it back on but now it's falling off again. Any recommendations? I don't wanna try random stuff and have the odor linger in my humidor.

[icehog3]

Thanks Adam!

Another question.. My Treasure Dome uses lid mounted humidifiers. The magnets keep coming off, I used some spray glue to glue it back on but now it's falling off again. Any recommendations? I don't wanna try random stuff and have the odor linger in my humidor.

Beads. ;)

[fencefixer]

Beads. ;)

I will.. later. :P

[icehog3]

Later. :P

[fencefixer]

When you get cigar bombed, is a 'counter attack' towards the bomber common practice?

[CigarNut]

Retaliation bombings occur, but I don't think that they exemplify the best of "bombing". But it does happen. A lot.

In the best cases a bomb is a surprise with no expection of anything other than a "Thanks" and the hope that you might bomb someone else in the future.

[pnoon]

When you get cigar bombed, is a 'counter attack' towards the bomber common practice?
For some, it is common. Many feel it is better to pay it forward. I prefer the latter approach. Otherwise, it just amounts to an unplanned trade.
:2
Posted via Mobile Device

[icehog3]

I like anonymous bombs. Truly shows that it was a gift, with no return expected or desired.

[Reaver2145]

How should i light a shaggy foot cigar ive only had one and i torched it but should i of cut the shaggyness off instead.

[Bill86]

You can just light them as you would any other cigar.

I prefer to chop off the shaggy foot but that's just me.

[croatan]

How should i light a shaggy foot cigar ive only had one and i torched it but should i of cut the shaggyness off instead.

You can light them normally. I actually like the way cigars burn when you light the shaggy the foot.

[Jefft72]

The only shaggy foot that I have smoked I lit foot like I would any other cigar, leaving all shaggieness in tact. I believe that was the intent with that style. If you cut the shag, then you would have a standard foot cigar.

How should i light a shaggy foot cigar ive only had one and i torched it but should i of cut the shaggyness off instead.

[14holestogie]

Lighting the shaggy end also lets you see just how much the wrapper affects the taste when you finally hit it. :2

[fencefixer]

I've seen zip lock bags with dividers for cigars, is there a way to DIY?

[sevans105]

I've seen zip lock bags with dividers for cigars, is there a way to DIY?

Super glue and a very steady hand. Thats actually how they make them. They usually employ young children in third world countries. They have the small nimble fingers needed to do the gluing. Mortality rate is fairly high due to the toxic fumes from the glue. That's whyI refuse to use them. They are very convenient, but my conscience won't allow me to use them knowing that a young child may have died for my cigars.


Just kidding. I have no idea. I just buy them here when they do group buys.

[Zeuceone]

if you have a plastic sealing machine you can diy

http://www.williseuropean.com/mediac/400_0/media/heat~sealer.jpg]

[Fredo456]

I'm sure it's been covered already, but what is bombing?

Thanks.

[chippewastud79]

I'm sure it's been covered already, but what is bombing?

Thanks.

http://www.cigarasylum.com/vb/showthread.php?t=2190

http://www.cigarasylum.com/vb/showthread.php?t=3914

[markem]

I'm sure it's been covered already, but what is bombing?


What an excellent question! The original and core idea of bombing has sort of been lost at CA, but I will go with the original definition because that's really the spirit that drives all bombing.

Sometimes you notice that someone is being particularly helpful or is having a rough patch or even a good patch of luck or simply is someone on the board whom you have noted. You decide that you would like to send this person some cigars (or maybe something else or even a lot else!) and want to make it a surprise gift "just to make their day." That's called bombing. Often times, people will use the recipient's address as the "ship from" address to make it completely anonymous. This is sort of equivalent to walking up to someone at a herf and handing them a cigar and walking away.

It's about spreading sunshine without calling attention to yourself.

Doesn't quite work that way for many on CA these days, but the spirit is the same.

Note that people often have their addresses in the official CA Rolodex, which is maintained by Pnoon. There are some basic rules about getting access that are designed to thwart spammers. Look for the Rolodex sticky. It used to be much harder to get addresses, which was actually part of the fun.

[fencefixer]

I'm sure it's been covered already, but what is bombing?

Thanks.

Feel free to give me your address, I'll mail you some literature on that topic. :r:r:r

[T.G]

What an excellent question! The original and core idea of bombing has sort of been lost at CA, but I will go with the original definition because that's really the spirit that drives all bombing.

Sometimes you notice that someone is being particularly helpful or is having a rough patch or even a good patch of luck or simply is someone on the board whom you have noted. You decide that you would like to send this person some cigars (or maybe something else or even a lot else!) and want to make it a surprise gift "just to make their day." That's called bombing. Often times, people will use the recipient's address as the "ship from" address to make it completely anonymous. This is sort of equivalent to walking up to someone at a herf and handing them a cigar and walking away.

It's about spreading sunshine without calling attention to yourself.

Doesn't quite work that way for many on CA these days, but the spirit is the same.

Note that people often have their addresses in the official CA Rolodex, which is maintained by Pnoon. There are some basic rules about getting access that are designed to thwart spammers. Look for the Rolodex sticky. It used to be much harder to get addresses, which was actually part of the fun.


Excellent post, Mark. Sums it up nicely.

And you're right, it seems like the sending a bomb for the benefit of the recipient to receive something they may enjoy has been mostly lost and it has become more of a "look at me" exercise by many.

[Fredo456]

Why do most samplers from Famous include robusto cigars and hardly any longer ones? Are they cheaper to make, a new trend, or ...?

[irratebass]

I like anonymous bombs. Truly shows that it was a gift, with no return expected or desired.

Unless of course, you're like me and leave the address UNDER the white paper that you weren't SUPPOSED to see lol *facepalm*

[chippewastud79]

Why do most samplers from Famous include robusto cigars and hardly any longer ones? Are they cheaper to make, a new trend, or ...?

The most popular size of North American cigar smokers. :hm

[icehog3]

Unless of course, you're like me and leave the address UNDER the white paper that you weren't SUPPOSED to see lol *facepalm*

True dat, Mickey. :r

[Fredo456]

What is the difference between body and flavor? I see reviews making a distinction between the two, i.e.: "full flavored and medium to full bodied".

[T.G]

What is the difference between body and flavor? I see reviews making a distinction between the two, i.e.: "full flavored and medium to full bodied".

Body is how strong the cigar is (nicotine).

Flavor is the "intensity" of the flavor.

[TJtorpedo]

At what low point does the RH start to really affect the flavor in a negative way? 50? 55? And how high can the RH get with a cigar? 80? 90?

Just seems like everyone has their preference between about 60-70, so just wondering what the extremes could theoretically be at either end of the spectrum.

[icehog3]

I have heard of knowledgable collectors aging their cigars in the 50s, so I don't think that will harm them...though I don't plan on trying it, still seems too dry to me.

80+ will likely do serious wrapper damage to cigars in the long run, so much moisture in the cigar is bound to expand the filler.

[T.G]

Storing in high RH is also begging for mold problems.

Realistically speaking, anything over about 75 is going to be difficult to smoke. It's not going to burn well, it might not stay lit and it's going very likely taste quite bitter and sour.

[icehog3]

Storing in high RH is also begging for mold problems.

Absolutely.

[Fredo456]

About aging (cigars, of course):

What types of cigars will age well? (I'm not talking about the few months apperently required, in an ideal world, of any cigar, but of the long term aging, of at least a few years)?

I have read about some cigars losing all their flavour if they are aged too much, so what doesn't age well?

Finally, because a coolidor doesn't breathe, some say that it can't be used to age cigars. Any truth to that?

Thanks again for your wisdom gentlemen.

[kydsid]

What types of cigars will age well? (I'm not talking about the few months apperently required, in an ideal world, of any cigar, but of the long term aging, of at least a few years)?

As you are talking about years, decades and more most of the worldwide experience is in aging Cuban Cigars because Non-Cuban cigars haven't been around nearly as long and the production techniques are so different. NC's cure and age loose tobacco fro several years and then roll where as Cuban leaf is cured and rolled. Most Cubans age well, some would say even require aging. Although the changes in processing over the last 10 years in Cuban production have changed things considerably if you ask me. That said some NC's do age well. Many, myself included have had good luck with aging Padron's and Fuentes (Opus and Anejos specifically). As for Cubans many will let them age at least a year or two before even trying. In the end some like em fresh others like them aged. It really is personal prefference and it's fun to find out what you like, provided you can keep you hands off them. The easy way though is to pay for aged cigars. There are sources that you can buy from with 10 years or more already in aging.

I have read about some cigars losing all their flavour if they are aged too much, so what doesn't age well?

This is possible with any cigar really. And it is really dependent on the long term conditions. I have had the opportunity several times to smoke the same aged cigars and had bland and fantastic ones, even when the fantastic one was actually older. There are lots of variables and I personally don't subscribe to the theory that any one particular brand or vitola will not age well. And given that you could safely, IMO, say that a Cuban cigar will not loose anything with 5, maybe even 10 years of age it's going to be a while, maybe never that I ever find that out. ;)

Finally, because a coolidor doesn't breathe, some say that it can't be used to age cigars. Any truth to that?

Sounds like total bunk to me. Many of the vastly more experienced smokers than myself use vacumm sealing for long term aging. Even the English, the originators of the aging idea, used to seal individual boxes with wax paper for long term storage, read 20+ years. Now lack of air may slow the process down, but are you truly not going to open a cooler for 10+ years? More likely it will be opened every 6 months at the longest, and really should be to inspect your investment. That will provide an instant air exchange, removing the idea of no breathing.

[Ogre]

FFP from EricF, Thanks Brother.

[MurphysLaw]

FFP from EricF, Thanks Brother.

Is that a question? ;) :r

[StormShadow]

I am waiting on my humidor which is in the mail right now. Currently I am using a Tupperware container with a humicare crystals container. (cigars have only been in there since this past Sunday) I have noticed that some of the cigars became a little "squishy". Should I remove them from the container and put them in my herfador? I'm not sure what the humidity is in the container as my hygrometer is currently sitting in the boveda calibration bag. It just got here in the mail today.

Also I just got 2 boxes of cigars, would it be better if I removed them and put them in the tupperware container or just leave them in their box?

Thanks in advance for help

[bobarian]

I am waiting on my humidor which is in the mail right now. Currently I am using a Tupperware c

:sh

[StormShadow]

:sh

I was on my iPod when i posted and accidentally hit the submit button. Message has been edited.

[NCRadioMan]

I am waiting on my humidor which is in the mail right now. Currently I am using a Tupperware container with a humicare crystals container. (cigars have only been in there since this past Sunday) I have noticed that some of the cigars became a little "squishy". Should I remove them from the container and put them in my herfador? I'm not sure what the humidity is in the container as my hygrometer is currently sitting in the boveda calibration bag. It just got here in the mail today.

Also I just got 2 boxes of cigars, would it be better if I removed them and put them in the tupperware container or just leave them in their box?

Thanks in advance for help

Remove the Humicare and place all the cigars in the tupperware. You don't really need humidification in a tupperware container. As you have learned, it's too much. Leave them in there till you get your humidor seasoned and ready to go.

:2

[TJtorpedo]

For cigars in sealed tubos, glass or otherwise, when in the humidor, is it best to leave them completely sealed, crack the caps a little, or leave the stopper out completely?

Also, do I understand correctly that if a cigar is sealed in a tube with no air exchange, it will just recycle it's own humidity? Will that last indefinitely?

[Pseudosacred]

Also, do I understand correctly that if a cigar is sealed in a tube with no air exchange, it will just recycle it's own humidity? Will that last indefinitely?

I know that is false. Even cigars in tubes need to be humidified or they risk getting dried out. I thought the same thing, but was instructued different by an employee at a B&M. As for the other part of your question, I'm uncertain which method works best for keeping a tubed cigar humid. I would think that it would be fine with the tube closed?

[CigarNut]

A cigar in a sealed tubo inside your humidor will be fine. Some people open the tubes and some don't. Just like some people leave the cello on and some don't. It all boils down to personal choice.

Try it one way and see if you like it...

[StormShadow]

Why is it that I have about 40-50 cigars in a tupperware container with no humidification device and the humidity level keeps getting to 78-80. Is this ok? I thought it was supposed to be between 62-70 from what I have read.

[pnoon]

Why is it that I have about 40-50 cigars in a tupperware container with no humidification device and the humidity level keeps getting to 78-80. Is this ok? I thought it was supposed to be between 62-70 from what I have read.

What is the ambient temperature in the area where you keep the tupperware? Also, what RH were the cigars at when you put them in there?

[StormShadow]

What is the ambient temperature in the area where you keep the tupperware? Also, what RH were the cigars at when you put them in there?

The ambient temperature is anywhere between 68-72. As for the RH of the cigars when i put them in there, I'm not sure. I got them them from cbid and CI. I had 12 in the tupperware container first for about 2 days with a Humicare crystals jar but then I was told i should take it out so i did. then about 3 days after i put in 32 more cigars and ever since it starts out at 70 when i close the lid and climbs. Ive been opening the lid til it drops to about 68 then close it again.

[SteelCityBoy]

Why is it that I have about 40-50 cigars in a tupperware container with no humidification device and the humidity level keeps getting to 78-80. Is this ok? I thought it was supposed to be between 62-70 from what I have read.

I would have to assume that you currently residing in a high humidity climate right now and that might be the cause of what you are seeing with your tupperware container. Not many storage devices are air-tight and if the outside humidity is high like that it can affect the RH where you are keeping your cigars.

This is the reason why so many people seek humidification control devices in high humidity climates so that they can keep their cigars at a more adaquate 60%-70% RH. Smoking preferances differ on RH from what I have read. Some people prefer it on the dryer side around 60% and others upwards of 70%. The problem is that when cigars are subjected to RH over 75% for a consistent amount of time they can tend to have burn issues (going out often) and not to mention the dreaded beetle problems when temperature and RH are at a prime condition for beetles to become active.

Personally, if I lived in a region that had constant high humidity I would either invest in a humidor with control devices or at least purchase a de-humidification device for the room where I was storing them.

However, if the humidity in your area is forcasted to drop soon then maybe you'll be just fine! :tu I have always thought of Texas to be a rather dry state but that might not be the case where you live. I used to live in Tampa, FL and that was a whole different ballgame where it was pretty much 80% RH all year!

Hope this helps....

[bobarian]

Also, its a good idea to check and calibrate your hygrometer by using the salt test or a Boveda test kit. :2

[pnoon]

The ambient temperature is anywhere between 68-72. As for the RH of the cigars when i put them in there, I'm not sure. I got them them from cbid and CI. I had 12 in the tupperware container first for about 2 days with a Humicare crystals jar but then I was told i should take it out so i did. then about 3 days after i put in 32 more cigars and ever since it starts out at 70 when i close the lid and climbs. Ive been opening the lid til it drops to about 68 then close it again.

D'OH!
I meant to ask what is the ambient RH?

CI (and most online vendors) tends to ship their cigars "wetter" than the desired 62-70 % RH. This might explain the higher RH in your tupperware.

[StormShadow]

I would have to assume that you currently residing in a high humidity climate right now and that might be the cause of what you are seeing with your tupperware container. Not many storage devices are air-tight and if the outside humidity is high like that it can affect the RH where you are keeping your cigars.

This is the reason why so many people seek humidification control devices in high humidity climates so that they can keep their cigars at a more adaquate 60%-70% RH. Smoking preferances differ on RH from what I have read. Some people prefer it on the dryer side around 60% and others upwards of 70%. The problem is that when cigars are subjected to RH over 75% for a consistent amount of time they can tend to have burn issues (going out often) and not to mention the dreaded beetle problems when temperature and RH are at a prime condition for beetles to become active.

Personally, if I lived in a region that had constant high humidity I would either invest in a humidor with control devices or at least purchase a de-humidification device for the room where I was storing them.

However, if the humidity in your area is forcasted to drop soon then maybe you'll be just fine! :tu I have always thought of Texas to be a rather dry state but that might not be the case where you live. I used to live in Tampa, FL and that was a whole different ballgame where it was pretty much 80% RH all year!

Hope this helps....

Right now I'm currently in Guantanamo Bay, Cuba. I'm waiting for my humidor and boveda packs to come in the mail. Hopefully they should be here this coming week.

I have experienced some burn issues.

:tpd: Also, its a good idea to check and calibrate your hygrometer by using the salt test or a Boveda test kit. :2

I just got the hygrometer a few days ago and calibrated it in the boveda test kit for 36 hours and it stayed at 74%

[SteelCityBoy]

Right now I'm currently in Guantanamo Bay, Cuba. I'm waiting for my humidor and boveda packs to come in the mail. Hopefully they should be here this coming week.

I have experienced some burn issues.



I just got the hygrometer a few days ago and calibrated it in the boveda test kit for 36 hours and it stayed at 74%

Here is an interesting thread on dry boxing. As Peter said earlier a lot of these cigar places keep and send their sticks on the moist side. Check out this thread and it may really help you out.

http://www.cigarasylum.com/vb/showthread.php?t=32016&highlight=drying+cigars

[TJtorpedo]

What can you tell by pinching a cigar? Whether it's humidified or not? I've always been told that a well humidified cigar will have some give to it.

Also, I have heard that nicely aged cigars will be more firm to the touch, even rock hard, and that is a sign of the tobacco being well aged. Is that correct, and if it is, how can you tell if you have nicely aged cigars, or cigars that are just dried out?

[galaga]

What can you tell by pinching a cigar? Whether it's humidified or not? I've always been told that a well humidified cigar will have some give to it.

I think this is right. The cigar should have some give and the wrapper shouldn't crack.


Also, I have heard that nicely aged cigars will be more firm to the touch, even rock hard, and that is a sign of the tobacco being well aged. Is that correct, and if it is, how can you tell if you have nicely aged cigars, or cigars that are just dried out?

Don't think that is correct at all. A rock hard cigar could be over packed, have a stem in it, or other malady. Of course, the might just smoke fine. Only way to tell if a cigar is correctly aged is to age it yourself, or be handed one that somebody else aged. One of the interesting things about aging a cigar is experiencing how it changes over months and years. Some even have sufficient patience, funds and aptitude to monitor over decades.

[kydsid]

What can you tell by pinching a cigar? Whether it's humidified or not? I've always been told that a well humidified cigar will have some give to it.

Also, I have heard that nicely aged cigars will be more firm to the touch, even rock hard, and that is a sign of the tobacco being well aged. Is that correct, and if it is, how can you tell if you have nicely aged cigars, or cigars that are just dried out?


Leave the pinching to Grandmas and their adorable little grandchildren. Pinching tells you absolutely nothing IMO. :2

[Apexkingjusto]

A friend suggests you should burn off the cigar when you get towards the end by holding a flam up to the cigar and blowing out for 30secs. Then let it sit for a min or so and smoke it. Ive tried it a few times and it worked. Is this a common practice?

[hammondc]

A friend suggests you should burn off the cigar when you get towards the end by holding a flam up to the cigar and blowing out for 30secs. Then let it sit for a min or so and smoke it. Ive tried it a few times and it worked. Is this a common practice?

That is called purging. I am a fan of it and do it often when smoking. 30 seconds might be a bit much (10 secs should do it) and the lighter at the end is not necessary but makes a cool light show at night.....:D

[Apexkingjusto]

That is called purging. I am a fan of it and do it often when smoking. 30 seconds might be a bit much (10 secs should do it) and the lighter at the end is not necessary but makes a cool light show at night.....:D

Oh wow...so just plow out without the flame?

[theonlybear4CORT]

You can do either but the flame trick works best at night.

[hammondc]

Oh wow...so just plow out without the flame?

Yessir!

[Malazan]

I purge all the time

[bagmntagm]

Are you supposed to leave the plastic wrapper on cigars when stored in your humidor?

[Zeuceone]

Are you supposed to leave the plastic wrapper on cigars when stored in your humidor?

It doesn't hurt them either way. Some do and others dont remove. It all comes down to personal preference.

[icehog3]

Are you supposed to leave the plastic wrapper on cigars when stored in your humidor?

Lots more discussion here:

http://www.cigarasylum.com/vb/showthread.php?t=51871&highlight=Wrapper

http://www.cigarasylum.com/vb/showthread.php?t=29972&highlight=cello

[RichieBklyn]

I like anonymous bombs. Truly shows that it was a gift, with no return expected or desired.

you wouldnt like em on a crowded subway train at 7am...

[icehog3]

you wouldnt like em on a crowded subway train at 7am...

I wouldn't be awake at 7AM on a bet, much less on a subway. ;)

[RichieBklyn]

I wouldn't be awake at 7AM on a bet, much less on a subway. ;)

LOL, I got 20 years to go before I can enjoy that luxury...

[icehog3]

LOL, I got 20 years to go before I can enjoy that luxury...

Just work nights! ;) :r

[Zeuceone]

Just work nights! ;) :r

:fp

[Eros]

This is going to be pretty long I'm thinking. So if anyone takes the time to read it and respond I would greatly appreciate it. This is more about my first experiences with cigars over the last few months than a question, although I do have a few questions.

So I bought a humidor in January along with a few cigars. Bad idea. For about two weeks I was hastily trying to season my humidor and place my cigars in it before they dried up. Why? Because being a noob, I thought the cigars would dry up quicker than I could season my humidor. Anyway I could never get the humidor seasoned right and it would never hold at the 65% rh I desired, despite using the beads. It hovered between 56-60.

I live in Iowa. So it's not too humid. I think my first mistake was the 65 beads. I may change to 70. Does that seem reasonable? I also had a post in the cigar smoking technique forum about not being able to taste my cigars despite retrohaling. A person there suggested that my cigars may have been dry, and I'm sure now that they were. I may try the boveda seasoning packs for the seasoning. Do those work well? I guess the main thing I've learned is that this is not a hobby to RUSH. Patience, as with most things in life, is essential.

[Blak Smyth]

This is going to be pretty long I'm thinking. So if anyone takes the time to read it and respond I would greatly appreciate it. This is more about my first experiences with cigars over the last few months than a question, although I do have a few questions.

So I bought a humidor in January along with a few cigars. Bad idea. For about two weeks I was hastily trying to season my humidor and place my cigars in it before they dried up. Why? Because being a noob, I thought the cigars would dry up quicker than I could season my humidor. Anyway I could never get the humidor seasoned right and it would never hold at the 65% rh I desired, despite using the beads. It hovered between 56-60.

I live in Iowa. So it's not too humid. I think my first mistake was the 65 beads. I may change to 70. Does that seem reasonable? I also had a post in the cigar smoking technique forum about not being able to taste my cigars despite retrohaling. A person there suggested that my cigars may have been dry, and I'm sure now that they were. I may try the boveda seasoning packs for the seasoning. Do those work well? I guess the main thing I've learned is that this is not a hobby to RUSH. Patience, as with most things in life, is essential.

Yes, patience is very critical and cigars are not as tempermental as they first seem to a newb. If you are still having issues with the humidor not being properly seasoned it is not to late to start over. Put your cigars in tupperware or freezer bags with the boveda packs or your beads while you get a good season on your humi. You should not have to buy 70RH beads if you have 65 already, they should be the same beads as the 65 but seasoned at a higher RH. Do you have a good hygrometer and has it been tested lately? That is the first key to knowing everything else.

[T.G]

If after 2-3 months, the humidor still hasn't stabilized, it's probably leaking.

[Eros]

I have a digital hygrometer that I salt-tested and then towel tested later on to affirm the accuracy. It was about 3% of when I first tested it so I adjusted it accordingly. After wrapping it in a towel a couple of weeks later it read 98% rh, which I was told it should read between 98 and 100 after the test. So the hygrometer is fine I believe. I took everything out of the humidor about a month ago and it is currently reading 44%

[bobarian]

Sounds like you have a leak. Is it a glass top? If so you may have leakage around the edges. Check the accessory forum for the thread on sealing the glass with silicone. You can also check for leaks by opening the top about half way and letting it go. It should not slam shut, you should hear a "whooshing" sound as the air escapes evenly around the edges. you can seal the top edges by using painters tape around the top. :2

[Blak Smyth]

I have a digital hygrometer that I salt-tested and then towel tested later on to affirm the accuracy. It was about 3% of when I first tested it so I adjusted it accordingly. After wrapping it in a towel a couple of weeks later it read 98% rh, which I was told it should read between 98 and 100 after the test. So the hygrometer is fine I believe. I took everything out of the humidor about a month ago and it is currently reading 44%

I would re-season the humi now, during this time I would put your beads in a tupperware with distilled water in a shot glass. Test it and get it to the 65% mark you desire, then remove the shot glass and continue to monitor the beads in the tupperware. If it stays around where you want it, and you get your humi ready make the move back in. It may take a while for your cigars, beads & humi to all nuturalize. If it continues to drop RH you may have a leaky humi, you can research ways to seal it or you can continue to put your beads in a tupperware with a shot glass of distiled water often to charge back up to 65%. :2
I hope this helps. Scott Shilala created a very interesting thread about making a humidor water tight!

[Eros]

Well I'm currently at a University so I can't really do any handy work with the humidor. I think it does have a leak because it slams pretty hard. But yes it is a glass top. I'm just mad that I invested money into something that doesn't work as advertised.

[Blak Smyth]

Well I'm currently at a University so I can't really do any handy work with the humidor. I think it does have a leak because it slams pretty hard. But yes it is a glass top. I'm just mad that I invested money into something that doesn't work as advertised.

It is a common issue with many humidors.


Here is the link I was referring to:
http://www.cigarasylum.com/vb/showthread.php?t=52938

Although it sounds like you may not be able to get this involved.

[Eros]

No not at all. I've looked at that guide and it looks great. I just don't have to tools right now. Maybe this summer. What humidors do you guys have/recommend? Mine was a cheap one from cheap humidors.

[Blak Smyth]

No not at all. I've looked at that guide and it looks great. I just don't have to tools right now. Maybe this summer. What humidors do you guys have/recommend? Mine was a cheap one from cheap humidors.

Honestly I would reccomend a cooler. Cheap and many seal well.
Not much of a presentation however.

You might consider trying to just use a clear odorless silicone to seal the glass and a foam seal to seal the opening on the one you have. You should be able to do a mediocre job without any tools or much time. :sh

[MurphysLaw]

No not at all. I've looked at that guide and it looks great. I just don't have to tools right now. Maybe this summer. What humidors do you guys have/recommend? Mine was a cheap one from cheap humidors.

Buy a small cooler or a piece of Tupperware big enough to store your cigars, beads and hygro. All you have to do is clean it out and remove any plastic smell, no need to season or anything.

[Blak Smyth]

What I did was rinse it out well, clean with a very small amount of dish washing liquid, rinse, then rinse again with distilled water (The distilled water is prolly not a must if it air dries completely) and air dry.
This is just to get it clean and eliminate the plastic odor inside.
Then through your stuff in and close. It may take a few weeks for everything to balance out. I have a few cedar boxes in mine to help keep a consistent environment in there.

Edit: haha, I replied to your last question prior to it's deletion!

[Eros]

Buy a small cooler or a piece of Tupperware big enough to store your cigars, beads and hygro. All you have to do is clean it out and remove any plastic smell, no need to season or anything.

I will probablly do that if there's no seasoning involved as you say. I do have a large tupperware container already so I could just do that. Looks aren't an issue for me at the moment. When I get older and have a house I may look into a nice humidor. Being in college and getting into cigars don't go together very well I've learned haha

[bobarian]

I will probablly do that if there's no seasoning involved as you say. I do have a large tupperware container already so I could just do that. Looks aren't an issue for me at the moment. When I get older and have a house I may look into a nice humidor. Being in college and getting into cigars don't go together very well I've learned haha

Tupperware is fine. Just add your beads, hygrometer and cigars. No seasoning needed. :tu

[jluck]

What "sets off" fillings in teeth?(metallic conducive taste/sensation) I'm guessing I'm not the only one....
Thanks.

[CigarNut]

What "sets off" fillings in teeth?(metallic conducive taste/sensation) I'm guessing I'm not the only one....
Thanks.
Never heard of this problem before; there is no metal in the cigars -- or at leat there should not be.

Could it be heat related (e.g., warm/hot smoke)?

Are your teeth sensitive to hot or cold?

[jluck]

Never heard of this problem before; there is no metal in the cigars -- or at leat there should not be.

Could it be heat related (e.g., warm/hot smoke)?

Are your teeth sensitive to hot or cold?

It only happens sometimes. Today when I fired up a cigar for the first 3-5 minutes it happened. Other times (majority) no issues. My teeth are moderately sensitive but not real bad.
I have seen it referenced one other time but could not find the post.

[Eros]

Tupperware is fine. Just add your beads, hygrometer and cigars. No seasoning needed. :tu

SOOOO I decided to go the tupperware route. I took the hygrometer and humidity bead puck out of my humidor and placed it into a tupperware container. Upon waking up and checking the numbers-the temp is at 69 and the humidity is at 93!? What could be the reason for this. It is a small tupperware container. About 12x6 inches.

[smitty81]

SOOOO I decided to go the tupperware route. I took the hygrometer and humidity bead puck out of my humidor and placed it into a tupperware container. Upon waking up and checking the numbers-the temp is at 69 and the humidity is at 93!? What could be the reason for this. It is a small tupperware container. About 12x6 inches.

The tupperware can not release the humidity like a humidor can.

Your puck is probably overkill.

[Eros]

The tupperware can not release the humidity like a humidor can.

Your puck is probably overkill.

Any ideas on what would be ideal for such a small space?

[jluck]

Any ideas on what would be ideal for such a small space?

Beads, beads is always the answer. Talk to Michael http://www.cigarasylum.com/vb/showpost.php?p=1613815&postcount=31
:2

[Eros]

Beads, beads is always the answer. Talk to Michael http://www.cigarasylum.com/vb/showpost.php?p=1613815&postcount=31
:2

The puck has beads in it though. Should I just but a pack of loose beads and put them in something?

[bonjing]

Did you over saturate the beads?

[Eros]

Did you over saturate the beads?

That's possible. But would that really boost the humidity up almost 30%?

[smitty81]

That's possible. But would that really boost the humidity up almost 30%?

If the container can't give off much humidity and the beads are already OVER saturated, where is all the moisture to go?

[Eros]

If the container can't give off much humidity and the beads are already OVER saturated, where is all the moisture to go?

I don't know. I guess that was a stupid question.

[smitty81]

I don't know. I guess that was a stupid question.

The only stupid questions are the ones not asked. :tu

[Eros]

The only stupid questions are the ones not asked. :tu

I'm not sure about that! Sometimes when you're in the company of experienced people, you tend to feel kind of stupid haha

[bonjing]

I'm not sure about that! Sometimes when you're in the company of experienced people, you tend to feel kind of stupid haha

You gotta learn some how right? :tu

[smitty81]

I'm not sure about that! Sometimes when you're in the company of experienced people, you tend to feel kind of stupid haha

I know what you mean. Sometimes they tend to make you feel stupid with their responses but don't take it personally. We're here to share our knowledge with eachother and help eachother out................at least I am.

Try to use the search and google as much as you can. If you can't find anything then post away.

[bonjing]

So what humidification system are you actually using? where did you get from?

[Eros]

So what humidification system are you actually using? where did you get from?

I am currently using 65% Heartfelt Humidity beads from heartfelt industries. I purchased them online.

[bonjing]

If you haven't had a chance check this thread out all about beads:

http://www.cigarasylum.com/vb/showthread.php?t=618


I know it's a lot of reading but it should help.

Your beads should be somewhere around 70% wet and 30%dry or 70% clear and 30%white. If there all clear then they are over saturated.

[RWhisenand]

What "sets off" fillings in teeth?(metallic conducive taste/sensation) I'm guessing I'm not the only one....
Thanks.

Ammonia can react with certain metals. I wonder if this is where your issues are arising from?

[Eros]

Tupperware is fine. Just add your beads, hygrometer and cigars. No seasoning needed. :tu

So this is basically what my tupperware container looks like. Nothing fancy but I am in school at the moment so this is what I have until I fix my humidor. I unsaturated some of the beads from the puck and the humidity is now reading 75, which I assume will go down a little when I add cigars? Anyway is this sufficient?

[bobarian]

So this is basically what my tupperware container looks like. Nothing fancy but I am in school at the moment so this is what I have until I fix my humidor. I unsaturated some of the beads from the puck and the humidity is now reading 75, which I assume will go down a little when I add cigars? Anyway is this sufficient?

:tu

[CigarNut]

Ammonia can react with certain metals. I wonder if this is where your issues are arising from?
I would hope that you do not have that much ammonia in a single cigar -- it might kill you...

[Hooligan]

So I started seasoning my humidor (brand new) and the hygrometer fresh out of the box read 70% and after 24 hrs in the humidor it reads 80%. How many days until I can call the hygrometer to be reading the humidity right?

[bobarian]

So I started seasoning my humidor (brand new) and the hygrometer fresh out of the box read 70% and after 24 hrs in the humidor it reads 80%. How many days until I can call the hygrometer to be reading the humidity right?


The Stickies at the top of each section are a wealth of information.

http://www.cigarasylum.com/vb/showthread.php?t=619

http://www.cigarasylum.com/vb/showthread.php?t=620

[Hooligan]

The Stickies at the top of each section are a wealth of information.

http://www.cigarasylum.com/vb/showthread.php?t=619

http://www.cigarasylum.com/vb/showthread.php?t=620

Thank you :tu

[RWhisenand]

I would hope that you do not have that much ammonia in a single cigar -- it might kill you...

I just not sure if there is another chemical that reacts with metals which is found in cigar smoke. I understand that cyanide is in cigarette smoke, and if its in cigar smoke as well it may be what's reacting with you filllings. It dosen't take much to dissolve a tiny bit of metal, and that would cause the metallic taste.

[Fredo456]

I'm pretty sure I've seen this somwhere, but I can't find it:

How can I post pictures? I have 5 pictures to put within a text (with lines of text between pictures). I have succesfully shrunk their size and uploaded them on the forum, but I can't find how to put them in the text.

Thanks (again).

[pnoon]

I'm pretty sure I've seen this somwhere, but I can't find it:

How can I post pictures? I have 5 pictures to put within a text (with lines of text between pictures). I have succesfully shrunk their size and uploaded them on the forum, but I can't find how to put them in the text.

Thanks (again).

When you post a reply, there is a box named Attach Files with a button for Manage Attachments.

The other option, and the one I use, is to have your pictures hosted somewhere else (e.g. Photobucket) and link them here.

[smitty81]

What exactly does rest time do for a cigar?

I know it gives it time for the RH to stabilize in the cigar but what else happens?

When they say CC's benefit from resting but not so much NC's, why is that?

[pnoon]

Who is "they"? Never heard of such a distinction.
Resting after shipment is pretty much for RH to stabilize no matter the country of origin.
Posted via Mobile Device

[smitty81]

Who is "they"? Never heard of such a distinction.
Resting after shipment is pretty much for RH to stabilize no matter the country of origin.
Posted via Mobile Device

Hmm, one of the members on here told me that in a thread.

I will have to see if I can find it.

Sometimes some members on here will say that they had a cigar they didnt care for and then they go on to say they will let them rest for a while and try them again?

[Bill86]

I think you are referring to aging and not resting. Usually, as Peter said, any time you receive cigars many/most people put them down for few weeks. Aging is all speculation and a crap shoot on both ends. Though IMHO, CC's would benefit more from aging and I wouldn't personally put NC's down long term. By long term I mean 5-10 years.

If it's not smoking good now really no reason to smoke more, so people take their chances and revisit 6 months - 1 year down the road.

[smitty81]

I think you are referring to aging and not resting. Usually, as Peter said, any time you receive cigars many/most people put them down for few weeks. Aging is all speculation and a crap shoot on both ends. Though IMHO, CC's would benefit more from aging and I wouldn't personally put NC's down long term. By long term I mean 5-10 years.

If it's not smoking good now really no reason to smoke more, so people take their chances and revisit 6 months - 1 year down the road.

Yea, I was meaning to say aging, not resting.

Sorry Peter.


Thanks Bill!

[pnoon]

no apology needed.
Posted via Mobile Device

[RWhisenand]

Some time ago I switched to using Boveda packets in my humidor. I'm very happy with how they have worked out thus far. Here is my question, I left my humidification stone in the box thinking that it will absorb some humidity from the Boveda packets, and act as a buffer to RH changes. I am planning on buying a new second box, thanks to the CIA's, and Cigarbid, I'm thinking of seasoning the new box with the 85% packets with the stone in place so it can act to buffer the RH.

I guess my question is in the opinion of the inmates, am I off base or should this work?


TIA

[chippewastud79]

Some time ago I switched to using Boveda packets in my humidor. I'm very happy with how they have worked out thus far. Here is my question, I left my humidification stone in the box thinking that it will absorb some humidity from the Boveda packets, and act as a buffer to RH changes. I am planning on buying a new second box, thanks to the CIA's, and Cigarbid, I'm thinking of seasoning the new box with the 85% packets with the stone in place so it can act to buffer the RH.

I guess my question is in the opinion of the inmates, am I off base or should this work?


TIA

I am not sure exactly what a 'humidification stone' is, but if you mean the humidifier that comes with most humidors, it not only will not buffer the humidity as it does not regulate or absorb humidity, but it would also leave a nice place for mold to grow. :2

[RWhisenand]

Yea, I'm referring to the disk thing that came with the humidor, I thought there was some sort of porus stone in it.

Good point about the mold though.

[CigarNut]

Get rid of the "stone" -- as Larry pointed out it is only there to add mold to your humidor.

[chippewastud79]

Yea, I'm referring to the disk thing that came with the humidor, I thought there was some sort of porus stone in it.

Good point about the mold though.

Its floral foam, like the ones they put in flower arrangements, not any regulation coming from it. ;s

[RWhisenand]

No apologies needed!

Thanks for your help brother!

I had no clue what was in those things.

[captTrips]

5 cigars that are best for aging? I just bought a box of Olivia V and a couple boxes of OpusX.

[688sonarmen]

5 cigars that are best for aging? I just bought a box of Olivia V and a couple boxes of OpusX.

Magic 8 ball says It is decidedly so on the Opus.

[area51]

^Haha

[icehog3]

5 cigars that are best for aging? I just bought a box of Olivia V and a couple boxes of OpusX.


Joya de Nicaragua Antano 1970 Robusto
Tabacos El Triunfador by Tatuaje
My Father Le Bijou 1922 Toro
La Flor Dominicana Cabinet Maduro No. 5
Avo Heritage Short Robusto

These are the 5 best cigars legally obtainable in the U.S. for aging, according to me.

[N2Advnture]

What exactly does rest time do for a cigar?

I know it gives it time for the RH to stabilize in the cigar but what else happens?

When they say CC's benefit from resting but not so much NC's, why is that?

Typically, you want to let your cigars "rest" for about 3-4 weeks after receiving them so they can acclimate to the RH level that you prefer (ie: what you keep you humidor RH set to).

Often times cigars are over humidified when shipped and/or are affected during shipping, so resting is definitely beneficial.

Aging on the other hand is my favorite part of the hobby.

Buying a box and aging them for 5-15 years and sampling them every year along the way can be quite rewarding in terms of enjoying the changes.

You can age NCs and they do benefit from aging. I found that 3-5 years seems to be the sweet spot in my experience.

I hope this helps

~Mark

[RobR1205]

I know this question gets asked a lot, but I want to hear a couple of personal opinions and experiences from some of you more experienced folk, being that I've only been smoking cigars for a little over a year now! But is there really a best humidity to keep cigars for optimal taste and burning? I've seen numbers as high as 75% (too high in my opinion) and numbers as low as 65%. Sometimes, by RH fluctuates between 72%-68%. Any first hand experiences or personal opinions? Thanks!

[N2Advnture]

I know this question gets asked a lot, but I want to hear a couple of personal opinions and experiences from some of you more experienced folk, being that I've only been smoking cigars for a little over a year now! But is there really a best humidity to keep cigars for optimal taste and burning? I've seen numbers as high as 75% (too high in my opinion) and numbers as low as 65%. Sometimes, by RH fluctuates between 72%-68%. Any first hand experiences or personal opinions? Thanks!

The short answer is store them at the RH level that you prefer.

In my opinion, 60-65% is my preference. I have found fewer draw and burn problems and more complex and subtle flavors when aging.

[RobR1205]

The short answer is store them at the RH level that you prefer.

In my opinion, 60-65% is my preference. I have found fewer draw and burn problems and more complex and subtle flavors when aging.

Wow usually I freak out when the RH gets near 65% or lower...Thanks! :tu

[N2Advnture]

Wow usually I freak out when the RH gets near 65% or lower...Thanks! :tu

It's really all personal preference.

In various places around the world, some collectors age in the mid 50s, then slowly raise the level when they want to smoke them.

Others store and smoke in the mid to high 50s

65% is my "go to" with results that I like

[guitar4001]

I try for 70/70, but if I vary to the right or left a bit, no big deal. I just don't like getting the humidity above 75 due to mold issues and splitting wrappers.

[captTrips]

I was a 70/70 guy until I did alot of reading and decided to drop my rh to 65. My real problem is keeping the temp in check? My humidors usually sit at around 72 or 73 degrees. Is it that big a deal as long as my rh is 65? What problems does it create?

[pnoon]

I was a 70/70 guy until I did alot of reading and decided to drop my rh to 65. My real problem is keeping the temp in check? My humidors usually sit at around 72 or 73 degrees. Is it that big a deal as long as my rh is 65? What problems does it create?

Nothing at all wrong with 72-73. Problems can occur when you get into the high 70s/over 80 for extended periods.

You should be fine.

[RobR1205]

Thanks for the clarification, everyone :tu

[FriendlyMan]

What dose NC's stand for? When someone writes NC's cigars?
Thanks

[pnoon]

What dose NC's stand for? When someone writes NC's cigars?
Thanks

Non-Cubans. Non-Cuban cigars.

[Mr.Weeee]

i dont know if you answers this or not should i keep the plastic wrap on them or take them out and put them in my humidor

[area51]

i dont know if you answers this or not should i keep the plastic wrap on them or take them out and put them in my humidor

It's personal preference. I keep them on because it protects the a little bit but yeah it is up to you.

[CigarJut]

I’m looking for something mild to medium with a Madura wrapper. Any suggestions?

[icehog3]

I’m looking for something mild to medium with a Madura wrapper. Any suggestions?

AVO Maduro.

[NCRadioMan]

Perdomo Champagne Noir, Perdomo Lot 23 Maduro, Casa Torano Maduro, Cusano 18 Maduro, Ashton Aged Maduro, Arturo Fuente 858 Maduro & Sancho Panza Double Maduro are a few.

[CigarNut]

Don't forget Padron x000 series Maduro's!

[jjirons69]

I’m looking for something mild to medium with a Madura wrapper. Any suggestions?

Macanudo maduros are really mild.

[RobR1205]

I’m looking for something mild to medium with a Madura wrapper. Any suggestions?

CAO Gold Maduro and CAO Maduro L'Anniversaire

[theonlybear4CORT]

I’m looking for something mild to medium with a Madura wrapper. Any suggestions?

I'll just leave this link rite here
Click me (http://tampasweetheart.com/?page=shop/flypage&product_id=119&category_id=97b3607991d2a01af8e9393c06c2f327&PHPSESSID=bcecf579cdfd404cc72b86149405787c)

[Mr. Ed]

So, I've had this on my mind for a while. How much does the wrapper affect a cigar's taste? I've heard people in the know, fellow BOTLs, B&M owners, give out a range from 10% to 60% (small, thin RG cigars) of the flavor comes from the wrapper.

Does anyone have any good links to some more "technical" information about this and cigar tobacco combustion/burning?

Thanks,
Ed

[icehog3]

To put an actual percentage on something which is ultimately subjective will always bring debate. Here is some interesting discussion on the topic; though I don't agree with every bit of it, some points seem to make a lot of sense:

http://www.cigaradvisor.com/news/cigars/a-wrappers-contribution-to-cigar-flavor

[Chris.]

Hey Ed, Here's a good read on wrappers and their flavors. IT's not a direct answer to your question, but worth reading, I think.

http://cigarsecrets.com/cigar-wrappers/

[Mr. Ed]

Hey Ed, Here's a good read on wrappers and their flavors. IT's not a direct answer to your question, but worth reading, I think.

http://cigarsecrets.com/cigar-wrappers/

Thanks.

To put an actual percentage on something which is ultimately subjective will always bring debate. Here is some interesting discussion on the topic; though I don't agree with every bit of it, some points seem to make a lot of sense:

http://www.cigaradvisor.com/news/cigars/a-wrappers-contribution-to-cigar-flavor

Yea, the actual percentage is pretty silly especially when you're putting a number on a purely qualitative analysis. Thanks for the link.

I was speaking with a local guy that manufactures a brand and he went into different rates of combustion between wrapper and filler tobacco, but I was too busy playing bones and smoking a cigar to fully pay attention. :D

Does anyone have anymore insight into that maybe?

[smitty81]

Open bowl(s) of water Vs. Bovida 85% seasoning packs.



I know they both achieve the same goal but is one better/faster than the other to season a humidor?

[T.G]

Josh, IMO, no noticeable difference so long as you monitor the humidor during the process.

[smitty81]

Josh, IMO, no difference.

Thanks Adam.

[shibby4781]

Open bowl(s) of water Vs. Bovida 85% seasoning packs.
I know they both achieve the same goal but is one better/faster than the other to season a humidor?

Like Adam said as long as you monitor the humidity during the process you should be fine. I've done both and the end result was pretty much the same. One notable difference was how high the humidity got during the process. For me with the packs it did get up to 82% with distilled water I never broke the high 70's. In the end both of my humidors have maintained very well. I do use the 75% packs for regular humidification and they keep my units right at 70%. It really comes down to cost. Do you want to spend the money on how many ever Boveda Seasoning packs or about $1 on a gallon of distilled water that will last you quite a long time for the same result? Or just say the heck with humidors and just get plastic storage containers. May not look as pretty but no seasoning required, they maintain humidity exceptionally well and you can customize the look if you feel so inclined with stickers or even bedazzle the darn thing. My :2

[shibby4781]

I hate to follow one of my own posts with another but I have a beginner question now. So I have quite a few torpedoes and similarly shaped cigars with a pointed cap. The problem I always run into is how much of the cap should I really be cutting off? I generally use a back stopped double blade cutter, not the Cuban Crafters Prefect Cut, but close in design. I just keep snipping until the draw feels comfortable. Any insight?

[TJarv]

If it's working for you then just go with it, that or buy a new cutter:2

[Chris.]

That is the best way to cut Torps and Belis IME. Cut the tip off, test the draw, cut more if you need higher flow. I usually test this after lighting. Once a cigar has burned a little bit, the draw tends to change as well.

[shibby4781]

If it's working for you then just go with it, that or buy a new cutter:2

That's what I was guessing. I was just wondering if there was a general rule of thumb. The cutter is not really an issue. Just my shaky hands. I have a bunch of different cutters but simply have gone the "cheaters way" with the back stop ones. It just works best for me in most cases but the shapes in question just throws me off.

That is the best way to cut Torps and Belis IME. Cut the tip off, test the draw, cut more if you need higher flow. I usually test this after lighting. Once a cigar has burned a little bit, the draw tends to change as well.

I totally agree! I have notice that I have to snip as I smoke with these.

[Brlesq]

So I have quite a few torpedoes and similarly shaped cigars with a pointed cap. The problem I always run into is how much of the cap should I really be cutting off? Any insight?

I use a V-cutter on torpedos and it almost always makes for a perfect draw.

[CigarNut]

You can also punch the side just a little back from the tip -- works surprisingly well.

[ziggy4112003]

Chisel punch pinch or cut? I have just pinched thus far am very interested in hearing others Xp? Thanks

[Cville Cigar]

Wanting a new humidor, I've seen may with glass tops. I was told NOT to buy one, what do you think???

[pnoon]

Wanting a new humidor, I've seen may with glass tops. I was told NOT to buy one, what do you think???

Great for display purposes.
Not for me. Closed, dark, constant RH. That works for me.
:2

[T.G]

Wanting a new humidor, I've seen may with glass tops. I was told NOT to buy one, what do you think???

The problem with glass top humidors is that a number of the low cost ones are so shoddily made that they leak around the glass.

I'm not saying that all of them are bad, for example there was a Montecristo Afrique glass-top sold by JR Cigars a number of years ago that was actually a really solid humidor. But, if you're going to get into an inexpensive glass top, be prepared for the fact that you might have to seal the glass up yourself.

[Cville Cigar]

Thanks for the input guys!

[helgusmc]

Hey everyone new to the cigar world looking for some help with things that i may need and what good and not good again just comming into this venture with not alot of knowlege.

Thanks for any help

[icehog3]

Hey everyone new to the cigar world looking for some help with things that i may need and what good and not good again just comming into this venture with not alot of knowlege.

Thanks for any help

Just look around, dozens and dozens of threads will give you guidance and suggestions. :)

[RWhisenand]

Wanting a new humidor, I've seen may with glass tops. I was told NOT to buy one, what do you think???

I have a glass top, and a solid wood top humi. The glass top resides in a closed drawer in my desk, so no harm no foul, the solid wood top sits out under my night stand. So it is exposed to light. I'd go with a solid wood top, less seams to potentially leak. With that said I haven't had an issue with my glass top leaking.

[blank]

so the last few cigars ive had gave me a tingly feeling on my lips. usually about half way through. is this good bad or whatever?

[hammondc]

Could be the nicotine. It does weird stuff. If I smoke a LOT, my toes will beel tingly and cold. Then I barf.

Could be a localized allergy to something in the tobacco. Probably nothing to be concerned with.

[bobarian]

so the last few cigars ive had gave me a tingly feeling on my lips. usually about half way through. is this good bad or whatever?

Sounds like tar buildup, often that will give you that feeling on the lips. Check the end of the cigar on a paper towel, if you see a dark brown stain, that is tar. Not a good thing. You can recut and purge(blow through the cigar), often this will reduce the buildup. It also has a very bitter taste.

This can often be reduced by smoking slower and not pulling as hard as you puff. But sometimes it happens for no apparent reason. :2

[blank]

cool i will try that next time i smoke a stick.

[Cookee]

Is there a way to tell a cigar has too much draw or too little, or is it preference?

If this has been answered already just post a link to it; I did some searching but still getting use to overall website not that I more time due to holidays.

Cook

[CigarNut]

Is there a way to tell a cigar has too much draw or too little, or is it preference?

If this has been answered already just post a link to it; I did some searching but still getting use to overall website not that I more time due to holidays.

Cook
It's really personal preference. If you feel a the draw is too loose, then it is and vice versa.

Sometimes a cigar that is too dry or under humidified can be too lose and a wet cigar can draw a little tight. Sometimes, it's about how they were rolled. Lots of factors here, but I still think it comes down to a personal preference.

[SpruceBruce]

Sounds like tar buildup, often that will give you that feeling on the lips. Check the end of the cigar on a paper towel, if you see a dark brown stain, that is tar. Not a good thing. You can recut and purge(blow through the cigar), often this will reduce the buildup. It also has a very bitter taste.

This can often be reduced by smoking slower and not pulling as hard as you puff. But sometimes it happens for no apparent reason. :2

The tingly feeling can be caused just by the nicotine too, I get it sometimes when I smoke a stronger stick.

[DaBear]

La Aurora Choix Supreme
Tat Black Lancero from the Old Man and the C
PAM 64 Diplomatico(IDK why, but this one just didn't agree with me today, none of the flavor I associate with a PAM)
Anejo Shark

[pnoon]

La Aurora Choix Supreme
Tat Black Lancero from the Old Man and the C
PAM 64 Diplomatico(IDK why, but this one just didn't agree with me today, none of the flavor I associate with a PAM)
Anejo Shark

Was this meant for a different thread?

[Zane]

Was this meant for a different thread?

*puts on his captain obvious hat" looks like its for today's smoke. ;).

[pnoon]

*puts on his captain obvious hat" looks like its for today's smoke. ;).

It's my hat and you can't have it. :D

[icehog3]

http://i196.photobucket.com/albums/aa73/icehog3/captain-obvious-5-nobrain-2.jpg

[DaBear]

herp, clicked the wrong thread and just went all the way to the bottom to quick reply. my bad

[icehog3]

Ah, happens to the best of us. Even the worst of us, like me. :lr

[pnoon]

$hit happens.













Every Thursday night. :noon

[icehog3]

http://i196.photobucket.com/albums/aa73/icehog3/lipstick.jpg

No S.H.I.T.?? :D

[pnoon]

That's just wrong.
Where's an admin when you need one?

:lv

[icehog3]

That's just wrong.
Where's an admin when you need one?

:lv

Hey! I'm a starfish!

http://i196.photobucket.com/albums/aa73/icehog3/patrick-1.jpg

[nordynorton82]

So i'm wondering whats better. I bought a desktop humidor and a bottle of the 70% solution stuff. Now my hydrometer is only reading 55 after a few weeks of fluctuating. A friend told me there is a way to test the hydrometer and that the solution is not a good idea. Any input would kick a lot of butt. I'm tryin not to wreck the sticks i do have and i need to know. nothing sucks worse than a soggy or dry stick

[big_jaygee]

How to Test and Calibrate a Hygrometer:

Fill a milk bottle cap or other small container with salt, and add a few drops of water (not enough to dissolve the salt). (or you can use a 75.5 % humidipak)


Put the cap inside of a baggie or plastic container along with your hygrometer, and seal the bag.


Wait 6 hours, then check the reading on your hygrometer without opening the bag (or immediately after removing). If the reading is 75%, then your hygrometer is accurate and no adjustment is required.


If the reading is not precisely 75%, then adjust the hygrometer to 75% by turning the screw or dial on the back. This must be done immediately after removing from the bag or container, before room conditions cause the reading to change.

If there is no screw (or dial) to recalibrate your hygrometer, then you will just have to remember to add or subtract the difference between the test reading and 75%, in order to determine the actual humidity level inside of your humidor. For example, if your hygrometer test reading was 80%, then subtract 5% from the readings you get inside of your humidor, to determine the actual levels of humidity (e.g. a reading of 70% inside your humidor equals an actual humidity level of 65%).

and yes i did copy and paste (do i need to list the source?)... a whole lot faster then typing all of this lol :r

[big_jaygee]

what are you using for humidification? foam, gel, beads? i am using humidity beads 1/2 lb 70% and 1/2 lb of 65% and distilled water. i was never a fan of the foam or gel is was to much fluctuation. it just seem with the beads it has been a lot easier to maintain. :2

[pnoon]

what are you using for humidification? foam, gel, beads? i am using humidity beads 1/2 lb 70% and 1/2 lb of 65% and distilled water. i was never a fan of the foam or gel is was to much fluctuation. it just seem with the beads it has been a lot easier to maintain. :2

which will regulate to 70%

[big_jaygee]

which will regulate to 70%



Mostly Correct it stays about 68-69%... all I had left all was a 1/2 of each so I figured why not.

[pnoon]

Mostly Correct it stays about 68-69%... all I had left all was a 1/2 of each so I figured why not.

Purley coincidence.
The science does not support half 70 and half 65 stabilizing at 67.5

Not trying to discredit or dispute your results. Just clarifying the misconception that some new folks may have about mixing beads.

[TJarv]

Not sure this is the right place for this question but I'm going to take my chances.

Yesterday I smoked a Tat Black Tubo Torpedo. When were these produced and are the most recent Tat Black's the same blend. It was a great smoke and would love to find more that are similar.

Thanks, Tony

[big_jaygee]

Purley coincidence.
The science does not support half 70 and half 65 stabilizing at 67.5

Not trying to discredit or dispute your results. Just clarifying the misconception that some new folks may have about mixing beads.

you got it :tu it will always go towards the higher end.

[T.G]

Not sure this is the right place for this question but I'm going to take my chances.

Yesterday I smoked a Tat Black Tubo Torpedo. When were these produced and are the most recent Tat Black's the same blend. It was a great smoke and would love to find more that are similar.

Thanks, Tony

IIRC, 2009.

Same blend. Different vintage of harvest though.

Also, don't forget that the vitola can change the profile of any cigar.

[TJarv]

IIRC, 2009.

Same blend. Different vintage of harvest though.

Also, don't forget that the vitola can change the profile of any cigar.

What does this mean?

[Zane]

What does this mean?

Different year of harvest.

Meaning since it was picked a different year if could taste different.

[TJarv]

I should have never smoked that damn cigar

[CigarNut]

I should have never smoked that damn cigar

Slippery Slope?

[SpruceBruce]

Heh! I feel your pain Tony - the Tat stuff has hooked me too.

[Remo]

I should have never smoked that damn cigar

Those Tat Black OR's are the devil :lr

[Rob_M]

I have some NC sticks that I want to put away for a bit, maybe a year(if I can hold out). Would they be better off in a sealed box and forgotten about, or mixed in a humi with some regular smokes that will be accessed fairly often. What is the difference between aerobic and anaerobic aging of sticks. :sh

[T.G]

I have some NC sticks that I want to put away for a bit, maybe a year(if I can hold out). Would they be better off in a sealed box and forgotten about, or mixed in a humi with some regular smokes that will be accessed fairly often. What is the difference between aerobic and anaerobic aging of sticks. :sh

I would put them in their own box in the humidor if for no other reason to prevent them from being accidentally damaged when accessing your other cigars.

Anaerobic aging is a blind commitment of decades, not years, and unless you're dealing with tubos that actually seal (or you have sealed with tape or wax) it's not something you can really check on easily along the way. Yes, you can open the bag and check on the cigars, but then you've broken the process by introducing oxygen and now the cigars will have to go through that and shift to anaerobic all over again.

[pnoon]

I would put them in their own box in the humidor if for no other reason to prevent them from being accidentally damaged when accessing your other cigars.



Another reason for doing this is to "bury" the box/cigars to avoid the temptation of smoking them. Out of sight. Out of mind.
:2

[Zane]

Another reason for doing this is to "bury" the box/cigars to avoid the temptation of smoking them. Out of sight. Out of mind.
:2

Agreed!

[Gabe215]

I have a question I've heard mixed opinions on, can different cigars without cello on them be touching each other in a humidor for long time storage? Will the flavors "marry each other" and taint the other smoke? Or is that nonsense and the flavors will stay true to the stick regardless if it's rubbing against another stick? Let me know, thanks- Gabe

[pnoon]

I have a question I've heard mixed opinions on, can different cigars without cello on them be touching each other in a humidor for long time storage? Will the flavors "marry each other" and taint the other smoke? Or is that nonsense and the flavors will stay true to the stick regardless if it's rubbing against another stick? Let me know, thanks- Gabe

Not an issue unless you are talking decades. And then, only minimally. Nothing to worry about.

[CigarNut]

I have a question I've heard mixed opinions on, can different cigars without cello on them be touching each other in a humidor for long time storage? Will the flavors "marry each other" and taint the other smoke? Or is that nonsense and the flavors will stay true to the stick regardless if it's rubbing against another stick? Let me know, thanks- Gabe
As others have said, this is not a problem -- as long as none of the cigars are infused. Infused cigars need to be kept in a separate humidor.

[Gabe215]

Haha no don't smoke infused, thanks guys!

[Rob_M]

Thanks for the info guys.:tu

[Cookee]

Was curious if there was a place on forums where you can post really like this cigar and get recommendations on similar cigars. Sorry but my fail searching is not turning anything up yet. A link or Subject would be much appreciated, did not want to ask in wrong place.

[14holestogie]

Was curious if there was a place on forums where you can post really like this cigar and get recommendations on similar cigars. Sorry but my fail searching is not turning anything up yet. A link or Subject would be much appreciated, did not want to ask in wrong place.

After a time on here, you'll notice some inmates may have the same tastes as you in likes and dislikes. You'll learn whose recommendations carry more weight in your flavor profiles.

Otherwise a post with what you like now asking for similar profiles will net you some recommendations.
Just don't go crazy ordering hundreds of boxes of a current fave, because you'll find your profile may change in the future. :)

[Zane]

Was curious if there was a place on forums where you can post really like this cigar and get recommendations on similar cigars. Sorry but my fail searching is not turning anything up yet. A link or Subject would be much appreciated, did not want to ask in wrong place.

I hang out me read the reviews looking for the profiles I might enjoy.

[AdamJoshua]

Was curious if there was a place on forums where you can post really like this cigar and get recommendations on similar cigars. Sorry but my fail searching is not turning anything up yet. A link or Subject would be much appreciated, did not want to ask in wrong place.

I'm new here and to cigars and the best advice i can give from one noob to another is find your local B&M (brick and mortar ..see we're noobs) store and just ask the person working there, tell them what you like or are interested in and they should point you to lots of choices, it's worked for me. Also found while you shouldn't let them push you into buying 200 bucks worth of sticks it is polite to buy a couple there.

[markem]

Was curious if there was a place on forums where you can post really like this cigar and get recommendations on similar cigars. Sorry but my fail searching is not turning anything up yet. A link or Subject would be much appreciated, did not want to ask in wrong place.

Just saw this and since I had an answer, thought I'd post...

You are in the right forum. The All Cigar Discussion forum is the right place for a thread such as "I really like <X> what's similar". It will generate off topic comments, etc. but you will also get on topic replies. The All Cigar Discussion forum really is the place to discuss cigars and get input and ideas.

As has already been mentioned, don't just run out and buy a bunch of boxes. Sometimes it's best to look for a trade (you may not have access to that forum yet) and I'm sure that some people will contact you via PM for more in-depth discussions.

Hope this helps.

[Mentallyrechartd]

Just don't go crazy ordering hundreds of boxes of a current fave, because you'll find your profile may change in the future. :)

Excellent advice for someone new to our hobby. It can be tempting to find a cigar you love now, and then buy an entire box or two, thinking you've found THE cigar for you, only to realize halfway in that your palate has changed and they no longer have the same appeal. Also, be careful chasing the "limited editions" or "hard to finds". While fun, it can get expensive. Best to "tour" the regular selection at your local B&M, and expand your palate. :tu

[Gabe215]

If I put cigars in a ziplock bag, and put them in my coolidor, will they dry out from the humidity not being able penetrate the seal of the bag?

[14holestogie]

If I put cigars in a ziplock bag, and put them in my coolidor, will they dry out from the humidity not being able penetrate the seal of the bag?

The bag will slow any of the regulating effect of the coolidor. If the sticks in the bag are too wet, they'll remain that way for a longer period, and if dry, it will be difficult to get them up to the proper humidity. Crack the top of the bag open to remedy that.

[T.G]

If I put cigars in a ziplock bag, and put them in my coolidor, will they dry out from the humidity not being able penetrate the seal of the bag?

If moisture can't get in, it can't get out either. The cigars would remain at whatever moisture level they were when you placed them in the bag.

Such being said, I don't think all ziplocs are actually 100% non-permeable / don't leak over time.

[Gabe215]

It's winter and of course my heat is on in my house. It's not forced air I have radiators but I know it still dries my house out. I have multiple humorous and the RH is dropping drastically. My temp is staying at around 70-72 degrees. But I have 2 table top humidors one 25 and one 50 count that have an RH showing 64%. One- 2 foot tall display humidor with shelves and some boxes on the bottom, My hydrometer is on the middle shelf showing 66%. and coolidor that is pretty good showing a 68 usually, but I added some goodies to it and it dropped down to 66% ( should level out when stogies get settled). But I am worried about 64% in the table tops and I'm worried if the cigars in the bottom stand up are also at 66%. I have plenty of gels and boveda packs in there Am I anal or should I be worried? I have expensive cigars and I'll be furious if anything happens to my stash, anything helps, thanks guys

[T.G]

64% to 66% is optimum, IMO. Cigars tend to burn better and are less likely to develop mold. Subjectively, one can say they might taste better too.

70F/70% is a bullshit marketing ploy made up to sell PG solution.

[CigarNut]

It's winter and of course my heat is on in my house. It's not forced air I have radiators but I know it still dries my house out. I have multiple humorous and the RH is dropping drastically. My temp is staying at around 70-72 degrees. But I have 2 table top humidors one 25 and one 50 count that have an RH showing 64%. One- 2 foot tall display humidor with shelves and some boxes on the bottom, My hydrometer is on the middle shelf showing 66%. and coolidor that is pretty good showing a 68 usually, but I added some goodies to it and it dropped down to 66% ( should level out when stogies get settled). But I am worried about 64% in the table tops and I'm worried if the cigars in the bottom stand up are also at 66%. I have plenty of gels and boveda packs in there Am I anal or should I be worried? I have expensive cigars and I'll be furious if anything happens to my stash, anything helps, thanks guys
Cigars are pretty resilient so there is no need to panic. You describe a common problem during the winter. Sometimes it's as easy to fix as re-seasoning your humidor -- the dry wood does not seal as well and re-seasoning causes the wood (and therefore the seams) to swell up.

If seasoning is not the problem you may want to upgrade your humidification -- adding more, or switching to a different type of humidification. You have lots of choices.

Finally, 64-66% RH is not bad -- many people keep their cigars at that RH. Just my :2

[Gabe215]

Thanks guys

[CJS]

I have read somewhere that cigar manufacturer use either the Corona or the Robusto as the base sizes when they make their blends. Is this true?

And if it is the case, does this mean that a corona and a mareva of the same brand would taste exactly the same (or at least very very similar) and the difference would just be in the length?

[poker]

I have read somewhere that cigar manufacturer use either the Corona or the Robusto as the base sizes when they make their blends. Is this true?

And if it is the case, does this mean that a corona and a mareva of the same brand would taste exactly the same (or at least very very similar) and the difference would just be in the length?

No. Example: A Montecristo #1, #3, #4, and Tubos are all the same ring except for the length, yet they are all blended differently.

[Fredo456]

No. Example: A Montecristo #1, #3, #4, and Tubos are all the same ring except for the length, yet they are all blended differently.

Where do you find the information about the specific blends? (For Habanos, but also for NC cigars)?

[AdamJoshua]

Where do you find the information about the specific blends? (For Habanos, but also for NC cigars)?


I've mainly been doin' the google and reading different reviews and form my own "idea" from that, as far as blends and what to expect on the palette, if that's what you mean. The reviews will often tell you the basics of the blends, wrappers used etc.,

Or you can try the blend database here http://robustojoe.com/cigar-blends/

[T.G]

Where do you find the information about the specific blends? (For Habanos, but also for NC cigars)?

I've mainly been doin' the google and reading different reviews and form my own "idea" from that, as far as blends and what to expect on the palette, if that's what you mean. The reviews will often tell you the basics of the blends, wrappers used etc.,

Or you can try the blend database here http://robustojoe.com/cigar-blends/

What you are doing by reading a cross-section of reviews to see if a particular cigar might fight your desired flavor profile is a good way to get an idea of what a particular cigar might be like, if you can drown out the conjecture and personal opinion in the reviews and just focus on flavors. Eventually, you'll find a friend or reviewer or two who seem to have similar tastes as you and you can just hone in on their comments and reviews when looking at a cigar you haven't tried yet.

I wouldn't put too much stock in what you read about NC blends as they are intentionally vague. For example, when you read "Habano" or "Havana Seed", this could be any one of scores of different strains of tobacco. Even "Corojo" or "Criollo" could be any one of a dozen plus. Some blends don't even tell you that much, they will say something like "Esteli" or "Jalapa", well, BFD, those are just two growing regions in Nicaragua, doesn't tell anything about what varietal or stain of tobacco, and to even further break it down, what seed supplier and which one of their tweaked varieties.

As for that list, I see no "blends" on there, it's more like a list of factories with the occasionally a blender, and it's not even a very accurate list at that.