Most Helpful Customer Reviews
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9 of 9 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
The smoking lamp is lit!, September 5, 2006
As I'm fond of telling whoever will listen, I never touched alcohol until I went to seminary. Cigars are an even more recently acquired vice. My older brother got me into Macanudos, and since then I've enjoyed Avos, Buteras, and Arturo Fuentes. I'm even a regular at a Portland cigar bar, where I unwind after a long workweek with tawny port, long stogie, and a good book. I've learned enough about cigars to be dangerous, so I wanted a more formal knowledge base about them. Therefore, I decided to pick up this guide.
"The Complete Idiot's Guide to Cigars" is a fine introduction to the cigar world. Tad Gage has a deep affection for cigars, and he writes in a clear, enthusiastic manner about them. He explains the different types of cigars, the procedure for smoking one, and proper storage. In addition to this practical advice, Mr. Gage reveals the history of cigars, how they are made, and the reality behind the whole Cuban tobacco mystique. He even devotes a chapter to pipe smoking for those so inclined. At the book's end is a rating list of many common brands, along with a mild to full-bodied flavor chart. So far Mr. Gage's tastes have mirrored my own, so I look forward to trying more of his favorites (such as Davidoff and Fuente Fuente OpusX).
I understand that there's a backlash towards tobacco, and one should count the cost before indulging. But life is short, and certain pleasures in moderation aren't a bad thing. It's a shame that my home state (Washington) has banned smoking in public places. I patronized a number of Seattle's cigar bars back in the day, and I miss them. But at least Oregon hasn't jumped on the prohibition bandwagon. At any rate, if you are interested in becoming a cigar aficionado, then start with "The Complete Idiot's Guide to Cigars." Long ashes to you!
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9 of 9 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
Wonderful Entry Point Into World of Cigars, November 6, 2003
For one just beginning to "seriously" get into cigars, this has provided a most helpful resource.From the monumental tips on determing what cigar size and shape for you to how to cut, light, purchase, store, revive and rate cigars, this is just a great and "fun" resource to turn to. There's also a neat section on matching drinks with cigars and just a wonderful section on Cuban cigars: are they what everyone says they are! Recommended place to start.
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8 of 8 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
A must-read for cigar-loving idiots and geniuses alike!, June 18, 2001
This book is obviously the work of authors who are genuinely interested in educating and informing their readers, as opposed to merely showcasing their expertise (which they both possess). The text is organized in an intuitively obvious way that is user-friendly without being boring, redundant, or insulting to the reader's intelligence.... Penned in a clear, concise writing style that makes for an effortless, entertaining read which invites one back for future reference. The authors' insight instills the reader with the self-confidence to consistently make quality selections, observe appropriate tobacciana decorum, and maximize the enjoyment of any cigar-smoking opportunity. Well done -- I give it 5 humidors!
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