Expert: James Yee - 9/4/2008

Question
Hi James,
Saw one of your previous posts about beginners not inhaling cigar smoke as that is for more experienced smokers.
Does that mean that you inhale cigar smoke?? Im just curious because ive been smoking cigars for a while now and never even attempted to inhale!!!
Just curiousity i guess on my part on how you smoke!

Also,just curious on your thoughts for Monte #2 (Cuban). I would like to pick up a box but just wanted your personal opinion on this stick.

Thanks James all the best!
Peter

Answer
Hi Peter,

Yes, I usually prefer to inhale the cigar smoke, especially for large cigars with extremely rich flavours.  When smoking cigars, it's acceptable to inhale AND not inhale the cigar smoke.  Inhaling the cigar smoke actually allows you to fully assess a cigar's strength and flavours.  Inhaling cigar smoke however, is less desired by novice and intermediate smokers because it can still make you sick.  Experienced cigar smokers with iron stomachs usually inhale.

Not inhaling the cigar smoke however, is still perfectly fine and practiced by the majority of all cigar smokers.

Many years ago, I met a Habanos SA executive and a senior Partagas factory catador at a cigar tasting event and they revealed to me that the best way to taste a Cuban cigar is to take a small draw of smoke and let the smoke slowly flow down your throat - about halfway - before slowly and softly expelling it through your slightly-moistened lips.  This will allow you to detect the strength of the cigar as well as taste the many flavour subtleties in the cigar’s tobacco.  To get me used to this practice, I was advised to start with mild to medium-bodied cigars such as Romeo y Julieta, Sancho Panza and El Rey du Mundos.  Because cigars are capable of creating thick and heavy smoke, I was also told to start out with small cigars and slowly work my way up to larger cigars.

In regards to Montecristo #2, it's a great cigar and one of my Top 10 favourite Cuban cigars.  If you're picking up a box, try to find a dark batch as they are loaded with oils (excellent for plume), age incredibly well and are usually full of rich, defined flavours.  If you like Montecristo #2, also try Bolivar Belicoso Finos, San Cristobal de La Habana La Punta and Vegas Robaina Unicos.

Hopes this answers your questions. As always, if you have any more questions, please feel free to just ask and I will be happy to help.

Regards,
James