As the days grow longer and the sun shines brighter, summer presents an ideal opportunity to relax and enjoy life's pleasures, and what better way to do so than with a fine cigar? Summer's warmth calls for light, refreshing cigars, and perfect for pairing with your favorite summer activities. Whether you're at a beach party, hosting a barbecue, or simply lounging in your backyard, selecting the right cigar can enhance your experience. Here's a curated list of the best cigars to enjoy during summer.
When choosing a cigar for summer, consider the heat and the overall ambiance. Summer cigars should be lighter in body and flavor, making them more enjoyable in warm weather. You'll want to avoid overly strong or full-bodied cigars, which can be overwhelming in the heat. Instead, opt for cigars with smooth, creamy profiles or those with subtle hints of sweetness and fruitiness that complement the season's light and fresh vibe.
The Ashton Classic Churchill is an excellent cigar for those summer days when you want something mild yet flavorful. This cigar is known for its creamy, smooth taste with notes of almond, cedar, and a slight touch of sweetness. Its mild strength makes it a perfect choice for smoking in the sun, as it won't overpower your palate. The Churchill size offers a long, relaxing smoke, ideal for unwinding during a lazy summer afternoon.
The Perdomo 10th Anniversary Champagne is another fantastic summer option. This mild to medium-bodied cigar has a silky Connecticut Shade wrapper that provides a smooth and creamy smoke. The Champagne offers a delicate balance of flavors, including hints of honey, vanilla, and a subtle nuttiness, making it an ideal companion for a sunny day by the pool or a leisurely evening on the porch. Its elegant flavor profile pairs beautifully with light summer beverages like sparkling wine or a citrus cocktail.
For a cigar that embodies the spirit of summer, the CAO Gold is a top pick. This mild to medium-bodied cigar has a smooth Ecuadorian Connecticut wrapper that delivers a mellow and creamy smoke. The CAO Gold offers flavors of toasted nuts, wood, and a hint of sweetness, making it a versatile choice for any summer occasion. Whether you're having a picnic in the park or a quiet evening under the stars, the CAO Gold provides a satisfying and easygoing smoking experience.
If you're looking for a cigar with a bit more complexity but still suitable for summer, the La Aroma de Cuba Mi Amor is an excellent choice. This medium-bodied cigar features a dark, oily Mexican wrapper that delivers rich flavors of cocoa, espresso, and a touch of earthiness. The Mi Amor is perfect for those summer nights when you want to savor something special. Its rich, complex flavor profile pairs wonderfully with a dark rum or a robust coffee, making it an ideal after-dinner smoke.
The Hoyo de Monterrey Excalibur is a classic cigar that has been a favorite for summer smoking for decades. This mild to medium-bodied cigar has a Connecticut Shade wrapper that provides a smooth and creamy smoke. The Excalibur offers flavors of cedar, spice, and a hint of sweetness, making it an enjoyable and relaxing smoke for any summer occasion. Its larger ring gauge allows for a cool, slow burn, perfect for enjoying a long afternoon with friends.
For those who prefer a shorter smoke without sacrificing flavor, the Nub Connecticut is an excellent summer choice. This mild to medium-bodied cigar has a brief, stout shape that delivers a full, flavorful experience in a shorter time. The Nub Connecticut offers creamy notes of cedar, coffee, and a touch of sweetness, making it a perfect companion for a quick break during your summer activities. Its compact size makes it convenient to take along on any summer adventure, whether hiking, boating or just relaxing in the sun.
To enjoy your summer cigar fully, pair it with a refreshing beverage that complements its flavor profile. Light, crisp beers, white wines, and cocktails hinting at citrus or fruit are great options. For non-alcoholic choices, iced tea, sparkling water with a twist of lime, or chilled fruit juice can enhance the smoking experience. The key is to select a drink that enhances the cigar's flavors without overpowering them, creating a harmonious balance perfect for summer.
Smoking cigars in the summer heat can be enjoyable if you take a few precautions. Keep your cigars in a well-maintained humidor, preferably at a slightly lower humidity level, around 65%, to prevent them from becoming too moist in the summer humidity. Choose to smoke during the cooler parts of the day, such as early morning or late evening, to avoid the discomfort of the midday heat. And remember to stay hydrated, especially if you're pairing your cigar with an alcoholic drink, as dehydration can diminish the enjoyment of both the cigar and the drink.
Summer is the season to kick back, relax, and enjoy the finer things in life, and a good cigar can make those moments even more special. Choosing the right cigar can elevate your summer experiences, whether basking in the sun, hosting a gathering, or simply savoring a peaceful moment. So, pick your favorite from the list, light up, and let the summer vibes take over.