The Legacy and Heritage of Pappy Van Winkle Cigars
Cigar 101: Cigar Lingo
In much the same way that bourbon aficionados seem to have their own language (perhaps the terms on the rocks, with a twist, or neat are coming to mind), the lingo that accompanies cigar enjoyment can often feel as if it requires its own dictionary for translation.
So let’s break it down - whether you are a true cigar enthusiast and could teach your own master class, or you are just beginning to experience what it means to linger with enjoyment over a new stick - we’ve got a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the wonderful world of cigars.
Cigars are made from tobacco; that’s it. In the same way that a small set of ingredients, under the care of intentional traditions and the simple nature of time, produce bourbon, cigars have a similar pedigree that starts with pure tobacco. Ingredients grown in nature and only aided by natural techniques, time-honored traditions, and time-sweet time. Therein lies the true beauty and enjoyable nature of cigars.
Cigar 101: The Terminology
Cigar:
These terms essentially refer to the overall size and shape of the cigar, which will determine the level and intensity of flavor and the length of smoke time.
Size is determined by length (inches) and ring gauge (diameter).
RingGauge:The thickness of the cigar (diameter) is measured in the same way that jewelers measure rings - in increments of 64ths/of an inch.
Composition:
A cigar is comprised of three elements: the filler, binder, and wrapper. Together, these create the overall flavor of the cigar. The filler, binder, and wrapper are referred to by their color, country or place of origin, and length.
Filler:The layers of tobacco that make up the inner part of the cigar. Tobacco leaves are folded in an accordion style by the rollers (torcaderos). Most premium cigars use long filler (whole tobacco leaves provide a more even burn and better flavor).
Wrapper: The outside layer of a cigar that is wrapped around the filler. This layer is visible, so the tobacco leaves are selected not only for their aesthetic appearance but also for their flavor. The wrapper's taste is the initial flavor experienced when smoking a cigar.
Binder:The wrapped tobacco used to keep the filler leaves together. Binder leaves need to burn quickly and evenly with a neutral flavor that doesn’t overpower.
Origin:Where tobacco is grown, and therefore originates from.
Color: Cigars are often classified by the color of their wrapper, which is achieved via their origin and curing methods.
Foot: The open end of the cigar - this is the end that you light.
Head: The closed end of the cigar.
Footband: Placed around the end of the cigar for decorative and identifying purposes.
Flavor/Enjoyment:
Just as the initial welcoming notes of bourbon set the stage for the sipping and tasting experience, the aroma and tasting notes of the tobacco blend are tantamount to the smoking ritual.
Aroma:the scent or smell of the cigar can enhance the experience, usually described as sweet and floral or spicy and earthy.
Blend:The combination of tobacco leaves used, which determines its overall flavor. Master blenders select and mix certain tobacco leaves to achieve their desired and unique flavor profile.
Draw: The air flow through a cigar as you smoke it.
Cutter:An Instrument used to cut off the cap before smoking.
So, just what do all of these terms mean for our collection of signature Pappy Van Winkle premium cigars? Pappy & Company Cigars: Much like a finely crafted bourbon, a great cigar results from time, craftsmanship, and tradition. A partnership between Pappy & Company and master cigar experts, Drew Estate, our collection of premium cigars is crafted to be experienced, enjoyed, and savored. Our two blends begin with carefully selected tobacco. Tobacco that is then fire-cured and barrel fermented in the retired Pappy Van Winkle Bourbon Barrels that once aged our family’s legendary bourbon - resulting in our Pappy Van Winkle Barrel Fermented Blendfor a rich, complex smoke that’s as smooth and rewarding as a perfect pour. Or our Pappy Van Winkle Tradition Blend, selected to represent the legacy of fine bourbon and offer a fragrant and full-bodied smoke with balance and depth.
