The Leaf
News, articles, and stories from the cigar world
Featured Stories
Around the World in 80 Cigars: Travels of an Epicure by Nick Hammond
World-respected lifestyle journalist, writer and author, Nick Hammond, takes us on a quarter-century expedition of wonder. Ever been stuck in a minefield? Wondered what a sultry night in Havana is really all about? Wished you could sail in a hot air balloon over Cognac, go lobster fishing of Scotland or dive with Great White Sharks off Gaansbai? All these adventures and more are told in searing detail to delight, amuse and enlighten, in this beautifully packaged, luxury book.
Cigars: A Guide. A fantastically sumptuous journey through the history, craft and enjoyment of cigars
A beautifully illustrated and packaged study of the cigar - its history, its production and its joys - from world-renowned expert Nicholas Foulkes and written in conjunction with Davidoff, the world's leading cigar importer. A fascinating gift for anyone wanting to be educated and entertained...
The Ritual: Enhancing the Experience with Pairings and Etiquette
Smoking a cigar is rarely just about consuming tobacco; it's about the experience, the moment of contemplation, and the camaraderie. This ritual is enhanced by observing a few simple etiquette rules and finding the right accompanying beverage.
Latest Articles
Decoding the Menu: Understanding Cigar Strength, Size, and Shape
Walking into a humidor for the first time can be overwhelming. Cigars are categorized in myriad ways. Knowing how they are labeled will help you select a stick that matches your mood and available time.
Storing Your Stash: The Humidor 101 and Humidity Basics
A premium cigar is a perishable agricultural product. It must be kept at a consistent temperature and humidity level to prevent it from drying out, cracking, or molding. The tool for this job is a humidor.
A Beginner’s Guide to Cuts and Lights: Essential Tools and Techniques
The ritual of preparing a cigar is as important as the smoke itself. A bad cut or a rushed light can ruin even the finest cigar. Mastering this process is about patience and precision.
Understanding the Anatomy of a Great Smoke
A premium cigar is not simply tobacco rolled up; it is a meticulously crafted work of art, a blend of different leaves chosen for specific characteristics. Understanding the anatomy of your smoke is the first step in appreciating the complexities that master blenders work so hard to achieve.