Ask any cigar expert what the main components for a good cigar are, and you will usually receive a variety of answers. The general consensus is that the two main components of a better cigar are the tobacco and the construction. If you have ever had the misfortune of smoking a fake Cuban cigar. then you will know exactly what a bad cigar tastes like.
For the cigar novice, the variety of cigars on the market can be bewildering. There is a huge variety of brands, sizes and flavors of cigars available. The price can range from a few dollars for a cheaper cigar to around $30 US dollars for one good cigar.
The construction of the cigar is important because this will aid the taste and draw of the cigar. If a cigar has been made with less leaves in the filler then it will be smoked easily, which may not always be a good thing. Underfilled means that when you draw on the cigar it will burn faster. This may be caused by too many air pockets in the cigar.
Overfill the cigar and it will be much harder to draw a smooth smoke. So the correct amount of filler in the construction is essential to a good cigar. When properly lit, a better cigar will burn evenly. If the cigar does not burn evenly, then the rolling process is likely of an inferior quality.
Another sign of a good cigar is the ash. You should be able to smoke a cigar without the ash falling off frequently. A better cigar should also have springy yet firm touch. They should feel smooth to the touch and a better cigar should really have only one shade of leaves covering it.
The tobacco used in a good cigar should be of the highest quality. If the taste is harsh, burning to the mouth or unpleasant, then the tobacco will no doubt be of inferior quality. The major cigar brands have been in business for many years. Their reputation is second to none when producing a better cigar. Rumor has it that Davidoff rejects more cigars than they actually sell in the production process.
Consistency in cigar making is a must for the top brands. The big brands have a commitment to selling only the best tasting cigars, using the highest quality tobacco. They have a long distinguished reputation to maintain. Although they may be more expensive than the cheaper brands this will be reflected in the taste and construction of the cigars. With over 40 types of Cuban cigar alone to choose from, the more expensive brands are a safer option for a good cigar.