Years pass between the tobacco field and the first draw. What makes a good cigar and how to find the right one for you, explained by the specialist trade.
The structure of the filler determines a cigar's character and price. In a long filler, whole tobacco leaves run the entire length, giving an even, complex smoke and requiring complete handwork. Short fillers consist of cut tobacco; they are simpler and cheaper. The medium filler sits in between, combining cut filler with longer leaf portions.
Three components determine the aroma. The filler provides body and strength, the binder holds everything together, and the wrapper shapes the look and a surprisingly large part of the taste. A silky, even wrapper is the first sign of quality you can check.
For beginners we recommend milder sizes with a smaller ring gauge and a shorter smoking time. More important than any rule, though, is the conversation: tell your retailer what you like, from coffee and dark chocolate to spicy notes, and ask for two or three suggestions.
Cuba, the Dominican Republic, Nicaragua and Honduras shape the world of the premium cigar, each country with its own signature from elegant to powerful. Your retailer will gladly guide you through the regions.
Cut cleanly, light evenly, smoke slowly and do not inhale. A cigar wants time: allow 30 to 90 minutes depending on the size.
Cigars need 65 to 72 percent humidity. A humidor is the best investment after your first box. To the Humidor Assistant →
Every premium cigar consists of three parts, and each shapes the experience.
The core of the cigar, usually a blend of several tobaccos. It determines strength and the play of aromas, the maker's actual recipe.
A sturdy leaf that holds the filler together and gives it shape. Invisible, but decisive for draw and burn.
The outermost, flawless leaf. It shapes the look and a surprisingly large part of the taste, from light Claro to dark Maduro.
The size determines smoking time and temperature. Our Cigar Advisor finds yours.
The compact classic for a coffee break. Ideal when time is short but standards are high.
The reference against which all sizes are measured. A balanced ratio of smoking time and aroma development.
Short, generous in ring gauge, today's most popular cigar: plenty of aroma in a manageable time.
The modern size between Robusto and Churchill. Cooler smoke thanks to the larger diameter.
Named after its most famous admirer. The cigar for long evenings and full development.
Cigars with a shaped head concentrate the smoke and are considered the supreme discipline of the rollers.
Soil, climate and tradition are part of the taste. The most important growing countries in portrait.
The cradle of the cigar: earthy, spicy, unmistakable. Many consider Cuban tobaccos the reference.
Elegant, often milder cigars with fine aromatics, the largest producer of premium cigars.
Powerful, spicy tobaccos from volcanic soils. For years the rising star of the scene.
Earthy and robust, with rustic charm. For connoisseurs looking for character.
Famous for dark, sweet and strong tobaccos, especially prized as wrappers.
Under veils of cloud, Ecuador grows particularly fine wrappers, while Mexico supplies distinctive San Andrés leaves.
Four steps that turn a good cigar into a great moment.
A straight cut for the full opening, a V-cut for a concentrated draw, a punch for small openings. Important: cut just above the curve of the head so the wrapper holds.
A cedar spill or jet flame, never a petrol lighter, whose taste lingers. Toast the foot first, then light it evenly with a turning motion.
About one draw per minute keeps the cigar cool and the aromas clean. Do not inhale; a cigar is tasted in the mouth. The ash falls by itself, no tapping needed.
A cigar is not stubbed out; it may go out by itself in the ashtray. The last third gets stronger, and you may stop at any time.
At regular intervals the VCPÖ selects a cigar that is available to discover in participating specialist shops all over Austria. A recommendation by experts for beginners and connoisseurs alike. More than 50 member shops take part, recognisable by the golden badge in the retailer search.
More than 70 specialist shops all over Austria take time for your questions.
