Top 5 Myths About Cigars – Busted!
Whether you’re new to the cigar world or a seasoned aficionado, you’ve probably come across a few cigar “facts” that don’t quite hold up. Misinformation spreads easily, especially in a culture as rich and nuanced as cigar smoking. In this post, we’re setting the record straight by busting the Top 5 Myths About Cigars.
1. The Darker the Cigar, the Stronger It Is
False!
This is perhaps the most widespread cigar myth. Many smokers assume that a dark, oily wrapper automatically means the cigar is full-bodied or ultra-strong. While some dark wrappers (like Maduro or Oscuro) can contribute a richer sweetness or spice, wrapper color is not a reliable indicator of strength.
The strength of a cigar is primarily determined by the blend of filler tobaccos inside—not just the wrapper. You can have a dark cigar that’s mild and a light cigar that packs a punch. So, don’t judge a cigar by its color.
2. You Should Inhale Cigar Smoke Like a Cigarette
Absolutely not.
Cigars are not cigarettes. Inhaling cigar smoke can be unpleasant and potentially harmful. The flavors and nuances of a cigar are best enjoyed by drawing the smoke into your mouth, savoring it, and then exhaling. That’s how you experience the complexity of a well-blended cigar.
3. A Long Ash Means Better Quality
Not necessarily.
While a long, solid ash might look cool and can be a sign of good construction, it doesn’t always indicate superior quality. A well-made cigar burns evenly and draws well, regardless of how long the ash holds. Some tobaccos naturally produce flaky ash, and that’s perfectly okay.
4. All Premium Cigars Are Expensive
Not true.
There are many high-quality cigars that won’t break the bank. While there are luxury cigars priced in the hundreds (or thousands), you can easily find excellent, hand-rolled cigars in the $5–$12 range. Brands like Bobalu Cigar Company produce fantastic smokes at wallet-friendly prices—especially if you buy directly from their shop or online store.
5. Cuban Cigars Are the Best in the World
Debatable at best.
Cuban cigars have long been romanticized, but the truth is that many non-Cuban cigars rival—and often surpass—Cuban cigars in flavor, consistency, and construction. Nicaraguan, Dominican, and Honduran cigars (just to name a few) have evolved dramatically and dominate today’s premium cigar market.
Cigars from boutique manufacturers like Bobalu offer unique blends and aging techniques that compete with—or outperform—Cuban cigars in blind taste tests.
FAQs: Cigar Myths & Misconceptions
Q: Does a bigger cigar mean it’s stronger?
A: Not necessarily. Size affects the smoking time and how the cigar burns, but strength still comes down to the filler blend.
Q: Is it okay to relight a cigar that went out?
A: Yes! Just tap off the ash, purge the cigar by blowing gently through it, and relight. It’s common for cigars to go out if you’re smoking slowly.
Q: Are machine-made cigars just as good as hand-rolled cigars?
A: Generally, no. Hand-rolled cigars use long-filler tobaccos and offer better craftsmanship, flavor, and overall experience.
Q: Do flavored cigars count as “real” cigars?
A: They’re real cigars, but usually made with short-filler tobaccos and flavor infusions. They’re fun for beginners but differ from traditional premium cigars.
Q: Is there a “right” way to cut and light a cigar?
A: Yes—and no. There are recommended methods (straight cut, V-cut, punch), and using a butane torch or soft flame is ideal, but the best way is the one that gives you the best experience without damaging the cigar.
Final Thoughts
Cigar smoking is about personal enjoyment, tradition, and exploration. Don’t let myths steer you away from trying new things or developing your own preferences. The more you learn, the more rewarding each cigar becomes.
Ready to discover a quality smoke without the myths? Visit Bobalu Cigar Company and explore handcrafted cigars made in Austin, Texas—no hype, just great cigars.