1. What does the term 'ring gauge' mean and how is it measured?

The ring gauge or 'girth' is the diameter of a cigar and is measured in 64ths of an inch. Therefore a ring gauge of 42 measures 42/64 inch or 16.67mm. Likewise a cigar with a ring gauge of 50 has a diameter of 50/64 inch or 19.84mm.


2. Does the colour of the wrapper give an indication to the strength of a cigar?

No - though wrapper colours vary between boxes of Havanas, from Claro (light brown) to Maduro (black), it is the blend of the filler leaves that dictates the intensity of flavour and aroma. If anything the wrapper leaf provides a 'top-taste'; dark wrappers add a touch of sweetness and light wrappers a hint of dryness.


3. What is the best temperature to store cigars in a humidor?

Havanas should be stored at between 16-18C and 65-70% relative humidity (RH). The humidity is most crucial. If a Havana becomes too wet it will not smoke. If it dries out it will taste harsh.


4. How can I check if Havanas are being stored in perfect smoking condition?

A simple and reliable way to test the condition of a cigar is to hold it between your thumb and index finger and squeeze gently. If it feels firm but springy then it is in good condition; hard and brittle means too dry, soft and spongy means too wet.


5. A white mould-like substance appears on my cigars periodically. Is this harmful?

No - this is called 'bloom' and occurs naturally on Havanas when they are subjected to a sudden increase in humidity. It is a sign that the cigars are alive and well and should simply be removed with a brush.


6. Can I store Havanas in a fridge?

No - fridges are dry environments that will only serve to remove all the natural moisture within a Havana cigar. Also, fine cigars readily absorb smells that are in abundance in refrigerators.


7. Do tubed Havanas need to be stored in a humidor?

Tubed cigars maintain their condition out of a humidor longer than un-tubed cigars. The cedar-lined aluminium tubes help preserve the cigars from damage and drying out. Decant the cigars from the tubes if they are to be placed in a humidor.


8. Should the band be removed before lighting a Havana?

No - removing the band at this stage can damage the delicate wrapper leaf. If you wish to remove the band do so after smoking for around five minutes, when the cigar has warmed up and the band easier to remove. Even then the band should be peeled off rather then pulled off like a ring off a finger.


9. Can you re-light a Havana cigar if it goes out?

Yes tap it gently in an ashtray to remove any excess ash. Now apply a flame to end that was lit to burn away the edge of the wrapper. Re-light as with a new cigar, first blowing through it to clear out any stale, residual smoke that may linger within the filler. This is only recommended if the cigar has been extinguished for less than an hour. Any longer and the flavour and aroma will have been lost.


10. Are there any guidelines when recommending Havana cigars to newcomers?

Novices should start with lighter flavoured Havana brands like H.Upmann or Rafael Gonzalez for example. A slender ring gauge is also advised as the heavier gauged cigars offer fuller flavours, even within the same marque, which may prove too strong for the untrained palate