The Myths
The name Vicente Blends, says it all!
~ Vincent “Vicente” McGlone
myth
/miTH/
noun
“definition”
“definition explanation”
Breaking Down the Myths
There are myths, legends, stories, and tall tales surrounding cigar smoking. Of course, those who truly embrace the aficionado lifestyle don’t pay any attention to what others say, but I’d like to take a minute to dispel some false assumptions.
As you experience the cigar culture for yourself, it can be overwhelming to go down every rabbit hole. Remember to set your own ‘gold standard.’
Top Myths
Myth:
Cutting torpedoes must be done at a slant to create a wider draw.
FACT:
Straight or at an angle, both ways work fine if done well. Some cut at an angle to aim the smoke directly to the tongue while others prefer a straight cut to gently fill the mouth with smoke.
OPINION:
Depends on personal preference.
Myth:
The more expensive the cigar, the better…Cigars are only for the wealthy.
FACT:
There are also plenty of high-quality blends in the $5 – $10 US dollars range that can easily compete with any luxury brand.
OPINION:
Expensive or cheap, make sure you get what you pay for.
Myth:
In terms of health, cigars are as harmful as cigarettes.
FACT:
Research supports that cigars are safer. The curing of handmade cigar leaves is a natural process with natural ingredients, while producing cigarettes involves chemicals.
OPINION:
Every human body is different, and harmful reactions can happen to a cigar smoker or a burger lover.
Myth:
White ash is a sign of quality.
FACT:
The color of the ash depends on the terrain. It’s the result of the combustion of minerals from the soil and isn’t related to cigar quality. Calcium, phosphorous, and magnesium make the ash lighter, while potassium makes it darker.
OPINION:
You will find lots of high-end cigars that make a beautiful salt-and-pepper ash.
Myth:
You should always warm a cigar before lighting it.
FACT:
If you like your cigars BBQ and crunchy, go ahead, but beware. Getting the flame too close to the wrapper may burn the outer leaf, contaminate the flavor, the smell, and just F@€k up a good cigar.
OPINION:
Why risk ruining it? If the cigar is still humid, just save it in your humidor and wait for the right moment to enjoy it properly or change your supplier.
Myth:
The darker the wrapper, the stronger the smoke.
FACT:
Strength depends on the filler. The wrapper actually becomes darker due to the segregation of sugars in self-preservation against exposure to the sun and the aging process. This makes the flavor turn softer and sweeter and the texture thicker and more oiled.
OPINION:
Perhaps this comes from a common false association of dark colors with strength and light shades with softness.
Myth:
Cuban cigars are rolled on the naked thighs of virgins.
FACT:
You wish! Imagine how twisted the cigar would become if it were rolled up on such a voluminous surface.
OPINION:
It’s a good story that worked as marketing before the age of internet porn.
Myth:
Cuban cigars are the best in the world.
FACT:
Pure romanticism. There are good Cubans, bad Cubans, and everything in between. After the embargo, international regulations on tobacco production and handmade cigars, consumer demands, and improved quality standards have driven good practices worldwide. You can easily find a good cigar inside or outside Cuba.
OPINION:
This myth has been perpetuated by Hollywood and fake aficionados.
Myth:
You should store cigars in the refrigerator.
FACT:
Cigars require humidity and cool temperatures. Refrigerators provide a cold and dry climate that is harsh for cigars.
OPINION:
Just the thought of precious cigars adopting the smell of leftovers should send chills up your spine.
Myth:
It’s best to lick the entire cigar before lighting it.
FACT:
Some connoisseurs use natural water as a ritual or for tastings. But this isn’t necessary as long as the cigar is fresh or well-conserved.
OPINION:
This might have been common practice in the past, when humidors did not exist and transportation was slow. They would moisten the havanos with cognac, whiskey, or other available liquor to help maintain the cigar’s humidity. Today, you’d probably get strange looks for licking a cigar.
Myth:
There’s no need to use a humidor to keep cigars in good condition.
FACT:
A humidor is the only stable way to keep cigars safe for long or short periods.
OPINION:
If you just buy one stick to smoke it the same day, there is no need to use a humidor If you plan to save cigars for later, however, you will need a humidor for storage.
Myth:
Softer cigars are fresher.
FACT:
A soft construction mostly means overly moist or under-filled. Well-made cigars should present a firm and homogeneous structure.
OPINION:
This urban legend comes from false appreciation among starters.
Myth:
“I’ve found the perfect blend.”
FACT:
The essence of handmade cigars is their beautiful imperfection. Weather, soil, and internal factors such as fermentation, impact each crop and blend differently.
OPINION:
Each cigar is perfect because of its unique flavors and aromas.
Myth:
The Story about the lost cuban batch.
FACT:
This is pure legend that represents one of the best word-of-mouth strategies in the history of advertising. OpinionDon’t believe what you hear; find a trusted source to recommend good cigars that fit your taste. There are many options to really enjoy a puro, compadre!
Fresh air makes me throw up. I can’t handle it. I’d rather be around three cigars blowing in my face all night.
~ Frank Sinatra