Cigar Aficionado
A cigar aficionado is a person who has a deep appreciation for cigars and possesses knowledge about cigar types, flavor profiles, tobacco origins, and proper smoking techniques. More than just a casual smoker, an aficionado is someone who treats cigars as a craft—valuing nuance, tradition, and experience.
The term also refers to Cigar Aficionado magazine, a highly influential publication in the premium cigar industry that helped shape modern cigar culture since its launch in 1992.
What Defines a Cigar Aficionado?
- Knowledgeable about wrappers, fillers, and regions of origin
- Appreciates flavor complexity, aging, and construction quality
- Keeps cigars properly stored in a humidor
- Follows cigar etiquette and smoking techniques
- Often maintains a personal collection or journal
- May participate in herfs, online forums, or tasting groups
Being an aficionado isn’t about price or status—it’s about curiosity, respect, and discernment.
Cigar Aficionado Magazine
Launched in 1992 by Marvin R. Shanken, Cigar Aficionado magazine played a pivotal role in reviving cigar culture in the U.S. during the 1990s “Cigar Boom.”
The magazine features:
- Cigar ratings and reviews
- Interviews with celebrities known for cigar appreciation
- Pairing guides (e.g., cigars and whiskey)
- Lounge and destination recommendations
- Political and legal coverage of the cigar industry
Its 100-point cigar rating scale has become a widely recognized standard in the industry.
“We don’t just write about cigars. We celebrate the people and passions behind them.”
— Cigar Aficionado Magazine
www.cigaraficionado.com
How to Become a Cigar Aficionado
- Experiment with different brands and blends
- Learn the characteristics of various wrappers and regions
- Keep a cigar journal to track flavor notes and preferences
- Read reputable sources (books, blogs, magazines)
- Visit lounges and talk with more experienced smokers
- Learn proper storage, cutting, lighting, and puffing techniques
- Join herfs or online cigar communities
Being a cigar aficionado is an ongoing journey, not a destination.
Cigar Aficionado vs. Casual Smoker
| Trait | Cigar Aficionado | Casual Smoker |
| Knowledge | Deep understanding of cigars | Basic or occasional exposure |
| Storage | Uses humidors and RH controls | May store improperly or casually |
| Selection Process | Chooses cigars based on profile | Chooses by price or availability |
| Community Engagement | Active in events or forums | Rarely involved |
| Puffing Technique | Controlled, temperature-aware | Inconsistent or overly aggressive |
Related Glossary Entries
Summary
A cigar aficionado isn’t defined by what they smoke—but how they smoke. With a deep appreciation for the craft, culture, and community of cigars, aficionados elevate the experience from a habit to a hobby, and from a product to a passion.