Look, Touch, Smell: The Art of Choosing a Premium Cigar

For both beginners and seasoned cigar lovers, knowing how to identify a quality cigar is an essential skill. Whether you’re selecting a single stick at a lounge or building a collection for your humidor, using your senses—smell, feel, and appearance—can guide you toward a satisfying smoke. A premium cigar isn’t just about price; it’s about craftsmanship, consistency, and the experience it delivers.

The appearance of a cigar is the first clue to its quality. Look for a smooth, evenly colored wrapper without blemishes, tears, or large veins. High-quality cigars are usually hand-rolled and wrapped in leaves that show a light oil sheen, which indicates proper aging and storage. The cigar should also be well-packed from head to foot—no soft spots or uneven bulges—which signals expert construction.

Next is the feel of the cigar. When gently squeezed, it should be firm with just a slight give. If it feels dry and brittle, it may have been poorly stored and will likely burn too fast. On the other hand, if it’s overly soft or spongy, it might be over-humidified or poorly rolled, which can affect the draw and overall burn. Consistency in firmness from one end to the other is a sign of solid craftsmanship.

Smell plays a crucial role in identifying a great cigar even before lighting it. Bring the cigar close to your nose and inhale its unlit aroma, especially near the foot (the open end). A quality cigar will release rich, earthy, woody, or even chocolatey notes depending on its blend and origin. A bland or musty scent may suggest that the cigar is old, improperly aged, or has been exposed to moisture or mold.

Pay attention to the cap and construction, too. A neatly applied triple cap on the head of the cigar is often a sign of hand-rolled craftsmanship, especially with Cuban-style cigars. The foot should also be clean and well-cut, showing a tightly packed filler that burns evenly. Ragged edges or loose tobacco can be red flags.

In the end, identifying a quality cigar is about trusting your senses and gaining experience through exploration. As you smoke more cigars and visit more lounges or shops, you’ll naturally develop a better eye—and nose—for excellence. Whether you’re lighting up to celebrate or simply unwind, starting with a well-made cigar ensures a smoother, more enjoyable journey from the first draw to the last ash.

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