PCF Cigars (8 Viewers)

[Vintage1974]

Super new to cigars, but how does the intersection of $3-4 and premium cigars work out?

Also, how many is a lot?

Cigar connoisseur here LOL. Here’s a long-winded answer. There’s a lot of debate between the intersection of $3-4 cigars and the premiums. However, there are only a handful of $3-4 cigars that are any good and they’re usually off brand. A few that come to mind are from Cigars International (Reposada 96 and Original Cubans). A few years back I bought them and let them rest in my humidor for 6 months before smoking them. They were surprisingly good! That being said you really need to move up to the $8-10 range to get anything good. For example, anything by AJ Fernandez is going to be excellent! He has his own line and collaborates with many others. His San Lotano line of cigars are excellent and a box of 20 will cost $155. Although you can buy $3-4 cigars which can be good, they don’t compare IMO to something like AJ Fernandez, Oscar Valledares (Island Jim), Perdomo, Montecristo, Arturo Fuente, Ave Maria, etc.

The more expensive cigars like Davidoff (my personal favorite), Diamond Crown, Oliva Melanio, Liga Privada #9, etc. are expensive because they’re worth every penny! The process for preparing the tobacco typically takes years and a lot of sweat equity. The cigar rollers at those factories are some of the best in the world. That’s why you pay too dollar for them.

 

[Vintage1974]

I think I'd like these two lanceros: https://halfwheel.com/oliva-serie-v-melanio-maduro-lancero/414254/

But not really enough to buy a sampler pack just for the two. Anyone had them?

I typically smoke toros and torpedoes, but I saw the Oliva Serie V Melanio lancero and thought it looked kinda sexy. I purchased a 5 pack and enjoyed the hell outta each one!!

 

[JustDave]

Fuente Claro 8-5-8. Never had a candela cigar before. Was interesting, very light but not hay and grass. Not woodsy at all.

 

[Vintage1974]

View attachment 1002551

View attachment 1002552

Fuente Claro 8-5-8. Never had a candela cigar before. Was interesting, very light but not hay and grass. Not woodsy at all.

They’re really good!!

 

[Hot Nuts]

I typically smoke toros and torpedoes, but I saw the Oliva Serie V Melanio lancero and thought it looked kinda sexy. I purchased a 5 pack and enjoyed the hell outta each one!!

I don't buy a lot of lanceros because of the shorter smoke time than what I usually smoke, but lanceros are typically the best sticks as you get more wrapper flavor. It's the opposite with larger ring gauges. That is not always true though as some wrappers are not a good fit to not have enough counterbalance with filler.

I have a friend that said if he wins the lottery, he's only going to smoke lanceros.

 

[Hot Nuts]

Cigar connoisseur here LOL. Here’s a long-winded answer. There’s a lot of debate between the intersection of $3-4 cigars and the premiums. However, there are only a handful of $3-4 cigars that are any good and they’re usually off brand. A few that come to mind are from Cigars International (Reposada 96 and Original Cubans). A few years back I bought them and let them rest in my humidor for 6 months before smoking them. They were surprisingly good! That being said you really need to move up to the $8-10 range to get anything good. For example, anything by AJ Fernandez is going to be excellent! He has his own line and collaborates with many others. His San Lotano line of cigars are excellent and a box of 20 will cost $155. Although you can buy $3-4 cigars which can be good, they don’t compare IMO to something like AJ Fernandez, Oscar Valledares (Island Jim), Perdomo, Montecristo, Arturo Fuente, Ave Maria, etc.

The more expensive cigars like Davidoff (my personal favorite), Diamond Crown, Oliva Melanio, Liga Privada #9, etc. are expensive because they’re worth every penny! The process for preparing the tobacco typically takes years and a lot of sweat equity. The cigar rollers at those factories are some of the best in the world. That’s why you pay too dollar for them.

Not a fan of Davidoff or Diamond Crown (expect for the Maximums - I get pissed off when the JC Newman rep has an event, but never brings Maximus his best cigar). I was perusing a Davidoff lounge one day and the sign said by the Davidoff display, "By Appointment Only." Man that was huge turnoff right there. Overpriced mellow sticks and you can't get one without an appointment.

I smoke a lot of AJ Fernandez. Best value out there. I like My Father, Don Pepin and Tatuaje's more, but the price keeps me from buying very many. I've been buying a lot of Oliva lately (lots of sales recently). My favorite Olivas in order Master Blend 3, Oliva V, Melanio (yeah I know it's supposed to be better than the regular V, but I like the strength of the V more). Cains are decent too.

 

[Jonesey07]

Victory cigar!

 

[Hot Nuts]

Oliva V Melanio 15 Count Sampler​

Was: $94.99
Now: $79.99

(You save $133.16 )

https://cigarsamplers.com/oliva-v-melanio-15-count-sampler/

 

[JustDave]

Oliva V Melanio 15 Count Sampler​

View attachment 1002700
Was: $94.99
Now: $79.99

(You save $133.16 )

https://cigarsamplers.com/oliva-v-melanio-15-count-sampler/

Sampler…

If you want 5 or each to sample!

 

[johnjohn]

thankful for my austin visit and the great State of Texas

 

[Vintage1974]

Not a fan of Davidoff or Diamond Crown (expect for the Maximums - I get pissed off when the JC Newman rep has an event, but never brings Maximus his best cigar). I was perusing a Davidoff lounge one day and the sign said by the Davidoff display, "By Appointment Only." Man that was huge turnoff right there. Overpriced mellow sticks and you can't get one without an appointment.

I smoke a lot of AJ Fernandez. Best value out there. I like My Father, Don Pepin and Tatuaje's more, but the price keeps me from buying very many. I've been buying a lot of Oliva lately (lots of sales recently). My favorite Olivas in order Master Blend 3, Oliva V, Melanio (yeah I know it's supposed to be better than the regular V, but I like the strength of the V more). Cains are decent too.

I'm so sorry you had that experience in the Davidoff lounge. I've never been in one...I get all my Davidoff cigars at brick and mortars or online. I love the Davidoff Winston Churchill and the Colorado Claro. In fact, I was in Put-in-Bay Ohio this weekend and smoked a Cuban Montecristo and a Davidoff Winston Churchill. I thought the Davidoff was better. Granted, they're two different profiles but as far as the construction and burn, the Davidoff way outperformed the Cuban Montecristo. I'm gonna try the Master Blend 3...never had one before. Thanks for letting me know about it.

 

[Vintage1974]

I have a friend that said if he wins the lottery, he's only going to smoke lanceros.

LOL...kind of like Kevin Spacey in the movie, "Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil".

 

[thetikiking]

Hey y'all -- question for you. I'm the host of a monthly home game, where we typically play outside to facilitate several adult beverages and cigars. For several (me included), the game is more about the fellowship and the smokes than it is the poker.

That being said, it puts a hurting on my humidor. A few of our guests like to have two (and sometimes three) depending on how late the night drags on. While I am more than happy to share sticks, three guys smoking two or three cigars will burn through half a case in a night.

This is a long winded way of saying -- any recommendations on the cheaper end of the spectrum? Something where I can gently encourage my buddies to move off the Fuentes or Rocky Patels after they've had their first, but is still an enjoyable stick?

 

[Hot Nuts]

Hey y'all -- question for you. I'm the host of a monthly home game, where we typically play outside to facilitate several adult beverages and cigars. For several (me included), the game is more about the fellowship and the smokes than it is the poker.

That being said, it puts a hurting on my humidor. A few of our guests like to have two (and sometimes three) depending on how late the night drags on. While I am more than happy to share sticks, three guys smoking two or three cigars will burn through half a case in a night.

This is a long winded way of saying -- any recommendations on the cheaper end of the spectrum? Something where I can gently encourage my buddies to move off the Fuentes or Rocky Patels after they've had their first, but is still an enjoyable stick?

Buy some cheap bundles like these: https://atlanticcigar.com/oliva-flor-de-oliva-bundles-original-robusto/

I tried one one time and couldn't make it past 2 puffs. That should get them to start bringing their own.

It's ok to be up front with them and let them know cigars aren't cheap. It's like you are handing out $10 bills. Have them either bring their own or charge them $10 a stick or so. I bet they won't have 2 or 3 sticks then.

 

[BNM]

Hey y'all -- question for you. I'm the host of a monthly home game, where we typically play outside to facilitate several adult beverages and cigars. For several (me included), the game is more about the fellowship and the smokes than it is the poker.

That being said, it puts a hurting on my humidor. A few of our guests like to have two (and sometimes three) depending on how late the night drags on. While I am more than happy to share sticks, three guys smoking two or three cigars will burn through half a case in a night.

This is a long winded way of saying -- any recommendations on the cheaper end of the spectrum? Something where I can gently encourage my buddies to move off the Fuentes or Rocky Patels after they've had their first, but is still an enjoyable stick?

Seconds for the win here.

 

[FestiveKnight]

Hey y'all -- question for you. I'm the host of a monthly home game, where we typically play outside to facilitate several adult beverages and cigars. For several (me included), the game is more about the fellowship and the smokes than it is the poker.

That being said, it puts a hurting on my humidor. A few of our guests like to have two (and sometimes three) depending on how late the night drags on. While I am more than happy to share sticks, three guys smoking two or three cigars will burn through half a case in a night.

This is a long winded way of saying -- any recommendations on the cheaper end of the spectrum? Something where I can gently encourage my buddies to move off the Fuentes or Rocky Patels after they've had their first, but is still an enjoyable stick?

Factory seconds/bundled sticks, especially if you can get a good deal on cbid as others have mentioned

But I completely agree with @Hot Nuts, I’d start by just being honest with the group about the cost. Maybe there’s even a way to generate even more excitement and engagement if it becomes group buy style. People give cash at the end of each game and you show up to the next game with a box bought with that money. You’d need a super consistent group for that but just tossing out ideas.

Then it’s less of paying you for sticks and more of a group appreciation and buy in

 

[BlueChipSpecial]

I think I'd like these two lanceros: https://halfwheel.com/oliva-serie-v-melanio-maduro-lancero/414254/

But not really enough to buy a sampler pack just for the two. Anyone had them?

I bought a couple of sampler packs - one for me and one for my dad. I had the melanio maduro lancero. Fantastic smoke. It was a total chocolate bomb. Lots of great flavor throughout all 3 thirds. The first 3rd was like smoking a dark chocolate candy bar. The 2nd third still had strong chocolate notes, but also with some earthiness, hay and some almond notes. The final 3rd was chocolate and almonds. Would definitely buy a box if they become available as a standalone item. Probably won't buy more samplers just to get this 1 cigar, though.

 

[JustDave]

I bought a couple of sampler packs - one for me and one for my dad. I had the melanio maduro lancero. Fantastic smoke. It was a total chocolate bomb. Lots of great flavor throughout all 3 thirds. The first 3rd was like smoking a dark chocolate candy bar. The 2nd third still had strong chocolate notes, but also with some earthiness, hay and some almond notes. The final 3rd was chocolate and almonds. Would definitely buy a box if they become available as a standalone item. Probably won't buy more samplers just to get this 1 cigar, though.

it's tempting but I'd basically be spending like 30 a stick because I likely wouldn't find a good opportunity with everything else I have to smoke the other sticks in the sampler

just not that much of a degenerate

 

[JustDave]

Hey y'all -- question for you. I'm the host of a monthly home game, where we typically play outside to facilitate several adult beverages and cigars. For several (me included), the game is more about the fellowship and the smokes than it is the poker.

That being said, it puts a hurting on my humidor. A few of our guests like to have two (and sometimes three) depending on how late the night drags on. While I am more than happy to share sticks, three guys smoking two or three cigars will burn through half a case in a night.

This is a long winded way of saying -- any recommendations on the cheaper end of the spectrum? Something where I can gently encourage my buddies to move off the Fuentes or Rocky Patels after they've had their first, but is still an enjoyable stick?

not gonna lie, that's a dick move on their part. sounds like time for a reality check with some freeloaders.

 

[BNM]

not gonna lie, that's a dick move on their part. sounds like time for a reality check with some freeloaders.

Yeah, a little odd that haven’t brought a box to share.

 

[BNM]

I thought I posted this but it must not have gone through. Looking for a good, proven travel humidor option. Probabaly 5 count, but definitely max 10.

Any suggestions?

 

[BruceWayne]

I thought I posted this but it must not have gone through. Looking for a good, proven travel humidor option. Probabaly 5 count, but definitely max 10.

Any suggestions?

Elevate Bar Co.™ Travel Carrying Case - 5- Count- Waterproof, Crushproof, Airtight Seal, Durable Black Portable Case https://a.co/d/1Ku8dl2

Other comparable 10 stick options.

Throw a Boveda pack in with them and you're good.

 

[FestiveKnight]

I thought I posted this but it must not have gone through. Looking for a good, proven travel humidor option. Probabaly 5 count, but definitely max 10.

Any suggestions?

https://www.amazon.com/Xikar-Travel-Carrying-Humidifier-210Xi/dp/B001CZF1ZG

This is what I have

 

[Vintage1974]

not gonna lie, that's a dick move on their part. sounds like time for a reality check with some freeloaders.

I agree with Dave. Men who smoke cigars, should know how much cigars cost. Smoking more than one of yours is taking advantage and definitely NOT cool. That being said, a couple of things you can do. Encourage your guest to bring their own cigars (i.e. hey guys, I'm running low so feel free to bring your own cigars since we'll be outside). Or you can go to Cigars international and order the Po Boy II sampler for $49.99. I would actually do both...encourage guys to bring their own and if they don't you'll have 30 cheap cigars on hand to give them.

 

[Vintage1974]

Oliva V Melanio 15 Count Sampler​

View attachment 1002700
Was: $94.99
Now: $79.99

(You save $133.16 )

https://cigarsamplers.com/oliva-v-melanio-15-count-sampler/

Thanks for this post...just bought the sampler. I LOVE these cigars!!

 

[FestiveKnight]

I'm a relative n00b as well. I've been drinking bourbon for about a year and I like what I like but can't really tell you why LOL. However, I have found that bourbons with higher amounts of rye such as Brother's Bond, Four Roses, Basil Hayden, Jefferson, etc. I am a cigar connoisseur (over 20 years), so if you ever need a recommendation for a good cigar in any price range. Feel free to PM me

Okay, @Vintage1974, I’m really curious to hear more about cigars in your life.


I like cigars a lot and do my best to know a lot about them and interact with a bunch of friends/family who are similar but the word “connoisseur” doesn’t get thrown a lot. What does that mean to you? Happy to take this to PMs if you want but I’d love to get some more stories going in this thread

 

[BNM]

Okay, @Vintage1974, I’m really curious to hear more about cigars in your life.


I like cigars a lot and do my best to know a lot about them and interact with a bunch of friends/family who are similar but the word “connoisseur” doesn’t get thrown a lot. What does that mean to you? Happy to take this to PMs if you want but I’d love to get some more stories going in this thread

Yeah, more knowledge here, and not in PMs!!

 

[Vintage1974]

Okay, @Vintage1974, I’m really curious to hear more about cigars in your life.


I like cigars a lot and do my best to know a lot about them and interact with a bunch of friends/family who are similar but the word “connoisseur” doesn’t get thrown a lot. What does that mean to you? Happy to take this to PMs if you want but I’d love to get some more stories going in this thread

I'd be happy to share what being a connoisseur means to me...

1. I enjoy sharing and teaching people about cigars and how to properly smoke them. It's really not that complicated LOL
2. I enjoy recommending to a beginner where and how to start (humidors, different humidification strategies/devices, cigars, cutter, lighters, etc.).
3. I can recommend new cigars to an experienced smoker based on what they typically smoke.
4. I'm able to tell you how to properly age an average or beat up cigar and have it smoke/taste pretty good.
5. I can tell you which off brand (i.e. cheap) cigars are actually really good compared to some name brand $8-12 cigars.
6. I can pair cigars with food and drinks (very subjective though haha).
7. I know little tricks about smoking that some people aren't aware of. For example, how many times to you see people prematurely ash the cigar and then wonder why their throat feels like someone torched it after they're done with smoking? How do you properly relight a cigar (I just learned how this summer...been doing it wrong for over 20 years LOL).

 

[FestiveKnight]

I'd be happy to share what being a connoisseur means to me...

1. I enjoy sharing and teaching people about cigars and how to properly smoke them. It's really not that complicated LOL
2. I enjoy recommending to a beginner where and how to start (humidors, different humidification strategies/devices, cigars, cutter, lighters, etc.).
3. I can recommend new cigars to an experienced smoker based on what they typically smoke.
4. I'm able to tell you how to properly age an average or beat up cigar and have it smoke/taste pretty good.
5. I can tell you which off brand (i.e. cheap) cigars are actually really good compared to some name brand $8-12 cigars.
6. I can pair cigars with food and drinks (very subjective though haha).
7. I know little tricks about smoking that some people aren't aware of. For example, how many times to you see people prematurely ash the cigar and then wonder why their throat feels like someone torched it after they're done with smoking? How do you properly relight a cigar (I just learned how this summer...been doing it wrong for over 20 years LOL).

I’m a connoisseur it seems! We have a lot in common, like with everything for me, cigars is not just about the thing/activity itself but also very much about the knowledge and sharing there of. I think that’s where these types of “hobbies” shine (I mean, wtf are we all doing on here???).

I’ll bite on #7, what’s the trick? If you can explain by words over the internet. My strategy for relighting is to avoid letting it happen. If you smoke to quickly it doesn’t risk needing a relight

What’re some recent smokes you’ve liked? I had a Laranja Azulejo recently that really struck me. I also recently revisited a Caldwell Anastasia from 2016 that had been tossing around the bottom of a humidor since release that wasn’t anything too special but was incredibly pleasant.

 

[Vintage1974]

I’m a connoisseur it seems! We have a lot in common, like with everything for me, cigars is not just about the thing/activity itself but also very much about the knowledge and sharing there of. I think that’s where these types of “hobbies” shine (I mean, wtf are we all doing on here???).

I’ll bite on #7, what’s the trick? If you can explain by words over the internet. My strategy for relighting is to avoid letting it happen. If you smoke to quickly it doesn’t risk needing a relight

What’re some recent smokes you’ve liked? I had a Laranja Azulejo recently that really struck me. I also recently revisited a Caldwell Anastasia from 2016 that had been tossing around the bottom of a humidor since release that wasn’t anything too special but was incredibly pleasant.

LOL...yeah, the trick is to smoke it fast enough that it doesn't go out. I learned that when relighting, you blow out instead of suck in the smoke until you get a decent plume of smoke from the foot. Then suck in once and you're good to go. Works like a charm and the cigar doesn't end up tasting like a dirty ashtray!

Forgot to mention the cigars I like.
Super premium: Padron 1926 or 1964, Davidoff, Diamond Crown, Liga Privada #9

Premium: Montecristo, anything by AJ Fernandez, Hoyo De Monterrey, San Cristobal, Fuente, Romeo y Julieta, Oscar Valledares (Island Jim is my favorite of his), H. Upmann, Oliva Serie V Melanio, Ave Maria (AJ Fernandez), San Lotano (AJ Fernandez), Debonaire Cigars (smokes like a super premium...my alternative to Davidoff)

Cheaper Alternatives: Reposado '96 from Cigars International, Original Cubans (Cigars International), Perdomo Mistakes, I absolutely love the "alternative to" cigars from JR Cigars. They're all pretty good for $2-3 per stick!