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Getbig Main Boards => Gossip & Opinions => Topic started by: OneMoreRep on March 02, 2022, 06:54:21 AM

Title: CIGARS
Post by: OneMoreRep on March 02, 2022, 06:54:21 AM
Brethren,

I've been charged with the task of buying cigars for a business associate that has been very kind to us over the years. My problem is that I know NOTHING about cigars.

If any of you cigar aficionados can recommend some brands and your favorite places to order from, it would be appreciated.

Thank you.

"1"
Title: Re: CIGARS
Post by: Vince G, CSN MFT on March 02, 2022, 07:01:50 AM
Brethren,

I've been charged with the task of buying cigars for a business associate that has been very kind to us over the years. My problem is that I know NOTHING about cigars.

If any of you cigar aficionados can recommend some brands and your favorite places to order from, it would be appreciated.

Thank you.

"1"

If i had a few details about the type of guy he is, i could easily pick something...but this will help

Title: Re: CIGARS
Post by: Rambone on March 02, 2022, 07:02:49 AM
(https://static.tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pub/images/schwarzenegger_with_cigar_8513.jpg)

(https://m.media-amazon.com/images/M/MV5BZWUzYmZlZmItZDc3Ni00MWFhLThkZTAtZjAzYTMxMDhkMmU3XkEyXkFqcGdeQXVyMDEwMjgxNg@@._V1_.jpg)

(http://www.actionreloaded.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/cigar.jpg)

I don’t know anything about cigars, but if you really want to wow them, throw in a red polo
Title: Re: CIGARS
Post by: OneMoreRep on March 02, 2022, 07:06:15 AM
If i had a few details about the type of guy he is, i could easily pick something...but this will help



Late 40's, owns numerous businesses (Investment properties, biomedical engineering labs), plays golf every week and I think he is Cuban.

"1"
Title: Re: CIGARS
Post by: G_Thang on March 02, 2022, 07:11:59 AM
My father says Montecristo Línea 1935, based on smoke time and mellowness, especially for a newbie.

I'm sure Lee Lebrada lurks around here along with Sergio Oliva Jr
Title: Re: CIGARS
Post by: pamith on March 02, 2022, 07:12:21 AM
But, is this even healthy?
Title: Re: CIGARS
Post by: OneMoreRep on March 02, 2022, 07:17:06 AM
My father says Montecristo Línea 1935, based on smoke time and mellowness, especially for a newbie.

I'm sure Lee Lebrada lurks around here along with Sergio Oliva Jr

G,

This guy smokes cigars weekly. Does that change the narrative?

"1"
Title: Re: CIGARS
Post by: OneMoreRep on March 02, 2022, 07:17:46 AM
But, is this even healthy?

Fatal but true.

"1"
Title: Re: CIGARS
Post by: Vince G, CSN MFT on March 02, 2022, 07:36:20 AM
Late 40's, owns numerous businesses (Investment properties, biomedical engineering labs), plays golf every week and I think he is Cuban.

"1"


Unless you know he likes getting cigars as gifts, i would honestly get him an engraved v-cutter or something...being Cuban, it would be like giving me a basketball.  Otherwise a Montecristo No 2  would do as long as you can get legitimate Cuban cigars.   There's not really much you can impress someone like that but he wont throw it in the trash.
Title: Re: CIGARS
Post by: OneMoreRep on March 02, 2022, 07:49:26 AM

Unless you know he likes getting cigars as gifts, i would honestly get him an engraved v-cutter or something...being Cuban, it would be like giving me a basketball.  Otherwise a Montecristo No 2  would do as long as you can get legitimate Cuban cigars.   There's not really much you can impress someone like that but he wont throw it in the trash.

I can definitely get legitimate Cuban cigars. I fly to Miami very often (visit family) and there is a renowned shop that carries the best brands.

"1"
Title: Re: CIGARS
Post by: JustPlaneJane on March 02, 2022, 07:51:58 AM
Brethren,

I've been charged with the task of buying cigars for a business associate that has been very kind to us over the years. My problem is that I know NOTHING about cigars.

If any of you cigar aficionados can recommend some brands and your favorite places to order from, it would be appreciated.

Thank you.

"1"

I’m not sure you can import real Cuban cigars or liquor into the U.S. anymore, even if purchased in a third-party country ? Maybe check on that, unless you have another way around it ?

I agree with Vince Goodrum, if he is an aficionado and a native Cuban, you might be better off not gifting him cigars.
Title: Re: CIGARS
Post by: beakdoctor on March 02, 2022, 07:56:40 AM
A great brand that you dont hear a lot about is La Flor Dominicana. Very good quality.
Title: Re: CIGARS
Post by: BB on March 02, 2022, 07:58:52 AM
Shot a email to a friend that goes through a lot cigars -

High end - He mentioned the Montecristo Linea that Gthang mentioned above.

Middle - San Cristobal Elegancia, Arturo Fuente 858 Flor Fina, or the Alec Bradley Connecticut Robusto.
Title: Re: CIGARS
Post by: bLuEeYes on March 02, 2022, 08:02:13 AM
He must swim on cuban cigars you'll never find in Miami or you'll find their fakes. Dominicans/nicaraguans cigars are not on par with the cubans and he might get angry getting them.

I don't know your budget but I'll go for a nice humidor or cigar cases. Elie Bleu humidors are fancy but very expensive. A nice ST dupont lighter or Xikar cutter are also good ideas.
Title: Re: CIGARS
Post by: OneMoreRep on March 02, 2022, 08:03:15 AM
I’m not sure you can import real Cuban cigars or liquor into the U.S. anymore, even if purchased in a third-party country ? Maybe check on that, unless you have another way around it ?

I agree with Vince Goodrum, if he is an aficionado and a native Cuban, you might be better off not gifting him cigars.

To be fair and very honest, the owner of this store smuggles the stuff, amongst other things. Crazy, but I even think they smuggle in Cocaine. So the product is real to say the least.

I just want to make sure that if I get Cigars, I don't get him garbage that he will not really like. Also, I know there is a science to this stuff and that the highest price cigars doesn't translate to better quality.

Since I'm out of my wheelhouse, what better place to ask than here. Half of the people here smoke cigars (from what I've noticed over the years).

"1"
Title: Re: CIGARS
Post by: Grape Ape on March 02, 2022, 08:04:33 AM
I can definitely get legitimate Cuban cigars. I fly to Miami very often (visit family) and there is a renowned shop that carries the best brands.

"1"

Dumb question, but why not ask them?

Either way, the gesture shows thoughtfulness and will be worth more than the actual product.  VVV's suggestion of a cutter is cool too.

Here's a combo tool - golf  tool + cigar cutter.

https://www.printglobe.com/carabiner-golf-tools-with-cigar-cutter/101344
Title: Re: CIGARS
Post by: OneMoreRep on March 02, 2022, 08:05:36 AM
A great brand that you dont hear a lot about is La Flor Dominicana. Very good quality.

I was reading online that cigars from the Dominican Republic are good, but don't know what's best. I guess because it's all in the Caribbean the quality might be similar to some extent.

"1"
Title: Re: CIGARS
Post by: OneMoreRep on March 02, 2022, 08:07:35 AM
Shot a email to a friend that goes through a lot cigars -

High end - He mentioned the Montecristo Linea that Gthang mentioned above.

Middle - San Cristobal Elegancia, Arturo Fuente 858 Flor Fina, or the Alec Bradley Connecticut Robusto.

That keeps coming up, must be good!

"1"
Title: Re: CIGARS
Post by: OneMoreRep on March 02, 2022, 08:11:23 AM
Dumb question, but why not ask them?

Either way, the gesture shows thoughtfulness and will be worth more than the actual product.  VVV's suggestion of a cutter is cool too.

Here's a combo tool - golf  tool + cigar cutter.

https://www.printglobe.com/carabiner-golf-tools-with-cigar-cutter/101344

Our goal is to give the cigars to this guy by Sunday. Unfortunately, while I can call the guy in Miami, I won't be flying down until maybe next month and he does carry stuff that's hard to find online (apparently). I would hate to call, he recommends a great product that he has on limited supply, but can't ship for whatever reason. Then it would seem like I just used him for recommendations.

Of note, I only know the guy because I was the accountant his son used here in NYC for many years. I was introduced to the store owner once in person and he gave me his card. As per his son, the father has a way of obtaining "rare" products.

"1"
Title: Re: CIGARS
Post by: Grape Ape on March 02, 2022, 08:13:55 AM
Our goal is to give the cigars to this guy by Sunday. Unfortunately, while I can call the guy in Miami, I won't be flying down until maybe next month and he does carry stuff that's hard to find online (apparently). I would hate to call, he recommends a great product that he has on limited supply, but can't ship for whatever reason. Then it would seem like I just used him for recommendations.

Of note, I only know the guy because I was the accountant his son used here in NYC for many years. I was introduced to the store owner once in person and he gave me his card. As per his son, the father has a way of obtaining "rare" products.

"1"

If you have local family, they can buy, then fedex it.
Title: Re: CIGARS
Post by: OneMoreRep on March 02, 2022, 08:20:48 AM
If you have local family, they can buy, then fedex it.

I thought about that earlier, but then read this:

https://www.fedex.com/en-us/shipping/guidelines-for-shipping-tobacco.html (https://www.fedex.com/en-us/shipping/guidelines-for-shipping-tobacco.html)

Is this a rule, that isn't enforced in your opinion?

"1"
Title: Re: CIGARS
Post by: Spike on March 02, 2022, 08:21:48 AM
 :)
Title: Re: CIGARS
Post by: Grape Ape on March 02, 2022, 08:22:13 AM
I thought about that earlier, but then read this:

https://www.fedex.com/en-us/shipping/guidelines-for-shipping-tobacco.html (https://www.fedex.com/en-us/shipping/guidelines-for-shipping-tobacco.html)

Is this a rule, that isn't enforced in your opinion?

"1"

Unless they xray, no idea how they would know. Could easily wrap in a sweatshirt or something.
Title: Re: CIGARS
Post by: carl164 on March 02, 2022, 08:47:43 AM
Long-term best brands are the following: Padron, La Flor Dominicana, My Father Cigars and sometimes Cuban Cohiba when they have a consistent blend.
Title: Re: CIGARS
Post by: TheShape. on March 02, 2022, 08:54:51 AM
I’m sure grape flavored ones from the corner store will do.
Title: Re: CIGARS
Post by: Tapeworm on March 02, 2022, 09:09:24 AM
I'd welcome sticks way more than a snip or other paraphernalia. Anyone who smokes cigars already has the accoutrements.

I haven't partaken for a few years but Ramon Alones was a good Cuban. Monte #2 is the world's #1 premium cigar, I think, but that means it's a plain vanilla choice for a regular smoker.

If the dude is Cuban, I'd be tempted to buy from elsewhere, since it's unlikely you'll hit on something from his country that he doesn't know about. And, don't repeat this to him, but I had a rotten run of Cubans that were rolled way too tight. Montecristo and Romeo were the prime suspects, as I recall.

I can't remember a particular brand, it's been so long, but Hondurans and Nicaraguans (edit: + Dominicans) are generally well regarded. On the other hand, I suspect all the latinos kinda all hate each other, like asians do, so you don't want to piss the guy off, lol.

I'd go for a domestic. American cigars aren't nearly as earthy and heavy as a Cuban, but that can be a good thing, even for a daily smoker. I was often in the mood for a lighter smoke on summer nights after lighter fare. Again, I couldn't recommend any particular brands but I suspect Connecticut Shade wrappers are generally a sign of premium quality. I've never tried a "dutch" filler but I've heard good things, and it might even be something he hasn't experienced. I think it's uniquely American, despite the name. It was actually Deutsche, grown by German immigrants, but the dumbass Americans thought they said Dutch and the name stuck.

Sorry I can't be more helpful but the taxes here are beyond obscene so, much as I like 'em, I'm out of the loop. A true cigar specialist store, particularly in NY, will steer you right, I'm sure. 

Idk if this will be relevant but my understanding is that demand has been outpacing well matured production for awhile, so "go to" brands have been rushing things to market a bit and not cellaring the way they used to. If the sommelier (is he a fumarier?) is on top of things maybe he can point you to a Goldilocks maker, big enough to be serious with a solid flagship smoke, but not so discovered as to get bought out.

I'd play it safe with a down the middle style. There's a hundred names for shapes and sizes but go mid length and mid to mid large girth unless you know different. Nothing skinny since they can't contain enough leaf mix to give it depth and development. Basic brown wrapper (of excellent quality tho). Oscuros and candelas and other exotics are best avoided unless, again, you know he digs 'em. Definitely avoid, imo, "nifty" rolls, like entwined serpents and such, unless the dude is an incorrigible attention whore or something. Rock solid basic > than cool looking shit.

I don't believe in "bloom." Maybe I'm wrong but I say it's fucking mold. Idk if I'd buy anything with bloom on it.

Just be sure to ask them to wrap them up well, and let them know you're not on the way home to a humidor. You don't want them to dry out between purchase and presentation. 
Title: Re: CIGARS
Post by: Grape Ape on March 02, 2022, 09:18:38 AM
I'd welcome sticks way more than a snip or other paraphernalia. Anyone who smokes cigars already has the accoutrements.

 

Do they have the $500 golf/cutter combo tool I posted.

Huh, do they, huh?
Title: Re: CIGARS
Post by: Tapeworm on March 02, 2022, 09:28:01 AM
Lol.  ;D  For the discerning plaid clad man.

PUTTERSNIP!
Title: Re: CIGARS
Post by: JustPlaneJane on March 02, 2022, 09:56:42 AM
I thought about that earlier, but then read this:

https://www.fedex.com/en-us/shipping/guidelines-for-shipping-tobacco.html (https://www.fedex.com/en-us/shipping/guidelines-for-shipping-tobacco.html)

Is this a rule, that isn't enforced in your opinion?

"1"

If the shipping time is a concern, could you have them purchased for you at a store on the Canadian side of the border and mailed to you ? Someone on Getbig must live near the NY/Canada border ?

Me personally, I would consider alcohol as a more apt gift than cigars. It’s not hard to find a really good bottle of whiskey to procure. I don’t drink whiskey or smoke cigars, but I have given alcohol out as Christmas gifts in the past.

Assuming a soiled male bodybuilding thong is not appropriate on this occasion ?
Title: Re: CIGARS
Post by: IroNat on March 02, 2022, 10:29:35 AM
Instead of cigars or other accessories just give cash.
Title: Re: CIGARS
Post by: That_Dude on March 02, 2022, 10:40:33 AM
To be fair and very honest, the owner of this store smuggles the stuff, amongst other things. Crazy, but I even think they smuggle in Cocaine. So the product is real to say the least.

I just want to make sure that if I get Cigars, I don't get him garbage that he will not really like. Also, I know there is a science to this stuff and that the highest price cigars doesn't translate to better quality.

Since I'm out of my wheelhouse, what better place to ask than here. Half of the people here smoke cigars (from what I've noticed over the years).

"1"

Fuck the cigars give him some blow
Title: Re: CIGARS
Post by: Tapeworm on March 02, 2022, 10:50:05 AM
Btw, be on guard if you mention the dutch thing in a shop. The internet thinks I'm asking for Dutch Masters, which looks like an over-the-bar horror made from floor sweepings and reconstituted pulp.

The dutch varieties I meant are Ohio and Little. It seems awfully niche, possibly a thing of the past.

Here's one he might get a kick out of:

https://www.jcnewman.com/the-american-cigar-history/

Geez I didn't realize just how hard it would be to find a hand rolled American cigar from domestically grown tobacco these days. And I think I was mistaken, during a trip to NC many moons ago, in believing that what I was smoking was local. I just assumed, being in the Carolinas, but... shows you what I know.
Title: Re: CIGARS
Post by: ThisisOverload on March 02, 2022, 01:18:37 PM
I agree with some others.

If he is Cuban, i wouldn't get him a Cuban cigar.

Typically people take their cultural items very seriously.

Kind of like you don't buy a Mexican Tequila or Mescal.

Get him something new or something he hasn't tried before.
Title: Re: CIGARS
Post by: OneMoreRep on March 02, 2022, 01:20:32 PM
You guys have been phenomenal with the recommendations. Also, some of you have sent me PMs with particular recs that seem promising.

Thank you all very much!

"1"
Title: Re: CIGARS
Post by: deadz on March 02, 2022, 01:28:29 PM
Cigars..one word.....GROSS.
Title: Re: CIGARS
Post by: Taffin on March 02, 2022, 01:34:12 PM
Instead of cigars just give him cash.

Fuck the cigars just give him blow

Fuck the blow just give him BitCoin


Cigars..one word.....GROSS.

Never understood the fuss, until I inhaled one the first time.... whew!  Dizzy and warm or what!  ;D

Title: Re: CIGARS
Post by: Taffin on March 02, 2022, 01:40:41 PM
If he is Cuban, i wouldn't get him a Cuban cigar.

Kind of like you don't buy a Mexican Tequila or Mescal.

Bit like you don't buy an Irishman Guiness

Just like you don't cook an Indian some curry

And you don't gift a Belgian chocolate

Like you don't give the Japanese weirdly pixellated hard-core scat p0rn...





Hmm... this idea has potential... ;D
Title: Re: CIGARS
Post by: bLuEeYes on March 02, 2022, 01:50:34 PM
Cigars..one word.....GROSS.

You still never smoked an authentic Cohiba BHK 52 or an aged Robusto.

I do smoke them when I'm a bit drunk and it helps you to relax and just forget about life for a while. It makes me feel nostalgic about childhood. Montecristos has that wet earth aromas and smells that make feel like a kid playing outside in the rain and jumping on the mud. Magical.
Title: Re: CIGARS
Post by: deadz on March 02, 2022, 02:43:10 PM
You still never smoked an authentic Cohiba BHK 52 or an aged Robusto.

I do smoke them when I'm a bit drunk and it helps you to relax and just forget about life for a while. It makes me feel nostalgic about childhood. Montecristos has that wet earth aromas and smells that make feel like a kid playing outside in the rain and jumping on the mud. Magical.
Cannabis tastes wayyy better and the effects are wayyy better.
Title: Re: CIGARS
Post by: chaos on March 02, 2022, 07:48:19 PM
Unless they xray, no idea how they would know. Could easily wrap in a sweatshirt or something.
I've had quite the assortment of cigars confiscated. >:(

OMR, it really depends on the person. The Davidoff that Vince posted is a lighter flavored cigar vs the Ramon Allones. The Padron 1964 Anniversary is still one of my favorite cigars. The Ramon Allones being hit and miss for me to get. Also the Liga Privada Dirty Rat is a tasty choice. beware though, I prefer a smoky, flavorful cigar. Do you know of any brands that your friend smokes? Might be a clue as to what kind of suggestions people can throw out.
Title: Re: CIGARS
Post by: OneMoreRep on March 02, 2022, 07:53:03 PM
OMR, it really depends on the person. The Davidoff that Vince posted is a lighter flavored cigar vs the Ramon Allones. The Padron 1964 Anniversary is still one of my favorite cigars. The Ramon Allones being hit and miss for me to get. Also the Liga Privada Dirty Rat is a tasty choice. beware though, I prefer a smoky, flavorful cigar. Do you know of any brands that your friend smokes? Might be a clue as to what kind of suggestions people can throw out.

Unfortunately, I don't.

He supposedly has numerous Cuban cigar stocked in his home. I'm assuming he hits the Dominican cigars a tad as well, but without capturing a label to share with you, hard to tell for certain.

I few folks have suggested some good brands so far, but if you had to narrow it down to 2 cigars that are pretty much great options, what would you suggest?

Tape came through with some great options. Another board member via PM sent me the idea of trying either Flor de las Antillas Toro OR Partagas, both seem good upon reading reviews.

"1"
Title: Re: CIGARS
Post by: chaos on March 02, 2022, 07:57:10 PM
Unfortunately, I don't.

He supposedly has numerous Cuban cigar stocked in his home. I'm assuming he hits the Dominican cigars a tad as well, but without capturing a label to share with you, hard to tell for certain.

I few folks have suggested some good brands so far, but if you had to narrow it down to 2 cigars that are pretty much great options, what would you suggest?

Tape came through with some great options. Another board member via PM sent me the idea of trying either Flor de las Antillas Toro OR Partagas, both seem good upon reading reviews.

"1"
The Partagas wasn't very memorable to me but the Flor de las Antillas is another good one.
My opinion my top 2 would be the Padron 1964 Anniversary or the Ramon Allones.
Title: Re: CIGARS
Post by: Walter Sobchak on March 02, 2022, 08:06:09 PM
I've had quite the assortment of cigars confiscated. >:(

Stop smuggling them in your vagina.

Title: Re: CIGARS
Post by: Tapeworm on March 02, 2022, 11:48:57 PM
I've had quite the assortment of cigars confiscated. >:(


This, plus thousands in fines, would be my fate if I tried to order from overseas to skip the taxes. Dont think it hasn't crossed my mind. All cigars are a rich man's luxury at this point. :(

You'll lol @ these prices. Monte 2. $96.50.

https://www.devlinsonline.com.au/collections/cigars?page=2

Title: Re: CIGARS
Post by: wes on March 03, 2022, 01:29:14 AM
(https://www.holts.com/media//categoryimage//m/i/middleton-black-and-mild.jpg)

These would be a very high quality gift.

/thread
Title: Re: CIGARS
Post by: bLuEeYes on March 03, 2022, 03:31:42 AM
Cannabis tastes wayyy better and the effects are wayyy better.

I'm a fan of both. Lately I got some Moroccan hashich and kif from a friend. Kif tastes GREAT and you should smoke it on the sebsi pipe.

(https://i.pinimg.com/originals/fb/17/52/fb1752ab3545036ffacd3d1744a1997d.jpg)

Title: Re: CIGARS
Post by: CalvinH on March 03, 2022, 05:52:30 PM
The Partagas wasn't very memorable to me but the Flor de las Antillas is another good one.
My opinion my top 2 would be the Padron 1964 Anniversary or the Ramon Allones.

I would also add Arturo Fuente Opus X.

...Pardon is a really good cigar.
Title: Re: CIGARS
Post by: Pet shop boys on March 04, 2022, 06:46:06 AM
But, is this even healthy?


Are you concern about health ........................ ..In a bodybuilding forum ?




WoooSHHHHHHHHHH   LE VRO NEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE
Title: Re: CIGARS
Post by: funk51 on March 04, 2022, 06:52:16 AM
 
   
   you got to get them special dipped ones. ::) ::) ::) ::)
Title: Re: CIGARS
Post by: youandme on March 04, 2022, 07:17:48 AM
Instead of cigars or other accessories just give cash.

No it’s for an older refined gentleman that likes putting erect cylinderic shaped objects in his mouth and sucking.

Title: Re: CIGARS
Post by: Sissysquats on March 04, 2022, 07:44:59 AM
No it’s for an older refined gentleman that likes putting erect cylinderic shaped objects in his mouth and sucking.

 Sometimes a cigar is just a cigar…….Sigmund Freud
Title: Re: CIGARS
Post by: pamith on March 05, 2022, 11:26:26 AM
Why are you guys smoking cigars when it's not healthy?  ???