Cigars Body vs Flavor

 

Cigars: Full Body vs Full Flavor

One thing I have learned over the past six years of smoking cigars is that there are a lot of opinions and options out there in cigar land. Some will impress and some will disappoint.

One topic that people are confused about is the difference between body and flavor.  

So what the heck does 'the body of a cigar' or 'the flavor of a cigar' mean and how does it differ?

Now, this is one of the few things I DO know but I was wondering what information is on the Internet. I did a search and found that lo-and-behold there is a lot of misinformation (also known as 'wrong') out there. I decided then that explaining the difference between body and flavor was going to be the topic for the next blog.

Here it is in simple terms.

The best way I can think of the difference is this. Full bodied cigars will basically 'kick your ass'. You end up with a swagger or stagger in your step. You probably start smiling at everyone around and if anyone asks you a question, you usually take a long time before answering. This is all from smoking legal, in all fifty states, tobacco.

Now a full bodied or 'strong' smoke does not mean the taste will be harsh, have too much of a pepper flavor, or taste like you are sucking on ash. I guess one can compare it to 20proof, 40proof, or 60proof alcohol. The flavor can be the same in a lower proof drink, (mild to medium body smoke), as it is a higher proof drink (full bodied cigar).

Flavor is pretty easy to understand. The smoke should present an array of flavors. Some the these are nuts, cedar wood, fruits, or spices. A cigar can also have dark chocolate, coffee, leather, or sweetness as part of its bouquet. It all depends on how the tobacco was blended at the factory.

When introducing someone to cigar smoking, suggest a mild bodied stick with medium to full flavor. That way they can enjoy the 'taste' experience that is cigar smoking. After showing them how to cut the cap and light up, give them a chance to take a few puffs then ask what are they tasting. I prefer to NOT tell them what flavors to expect because everyone has a different experience – and – it is just more fun that way.

Any questions? Just ask and I will do my best to answer.

Until next time my friends, may you always have long ashes!