The Stogie Guys

Baby, it’s cold outside. For those of us not lucky enough to be living in a tropical climate, December – with its diminishing humidity and freezing temperatures – is a stark reminder that winter is not the most accommodating season for cigars.

That sad fact is more apparent to smokers this winter than any other in recent history. There are more oppressive, government-imposed smoking bans in effect today than ever before, forcing thousands of decent stogie enthusiasts into the cold and out of private restaurants and bars that would otherwise welcome them with open arms.

As my colleague wrote last January, it isn’t easy to step out into the winter elements for a cigar. Jack Frost does everything he can to make standing still or sitting down intolerable this time of year, one reason why “to brave inclement weather shows true dedication to the wonderful hobby that is cigars.”

So, other than gloves, space-heaters, hats, and long underwear, I’d like to propose the following tip to make this winter a little more enjoyable: Smoke shorter cigars.

As you well know, that seven inch by 50 ring gauge Churchill you’ve been eyeing in your humidor is a serious investment in time. If you smoke slowly – as you should to maximize enjoyment – it could take two or more hours to complete. In this weather, according to authorities, such exposure could lead to frostnip, frostbite, and even hypothermia.

Luckily, we here at StogieGuys.com have reviewed a good number of short cigars lately, providing you with some excellent choices for the winter months. Some of my favorites include:

• Punch Champion
• Oliva Serie G Special
• Montecristo Petit Edmundo (Cuban)
• Don Kiki Brown Label Figurado
• Arturo Fuente Hemingway Short Story

Feel free to share your favorite shorty with our readers by leaving a comment. Who knows? You might even save someone from losing a finger.

–Patrick A

photo credit: Stogie Guys