I had the pleasure of interviewing Ken Jacobs of Santa Barbara Cigar in Houston, TX. In this interview we discussed the questions of:
Why a woman would want to smoke a cigar?
Is it all right to know nothing about cigars when you walk into a cigar shop?
What are some good questions to have for your tobacconist?
This is part one of the interview where you will find answers to the questions listed above. More answers and the rest of this interview will be launched soon. If you are a member of The Private Lounge you will find the complete interview available without interruption on your member’s page right now.
To contact Ken Jacobs or find out more about his cigar shop, Santa Barbara Cigar, call 281-293-0609.
Just wanted to say thanks for the great interview. Ass a relatively novice smoker it is always good to hear from tobacconists that know their stuff, and are willing to talk at length about the cigar smoking experience.
I do not know if I had a chance to say hello, but we were both at the Cigar Emporium Cusano event this past Thursday. I purchased three of their cigars and have tried one so far.
My favorite so far is the Rocky Patel 1990 Vintage and the 1992 Vintage cigars. I just find them delicious and smokable all the way to the nub without ever getting overly bitter. I wish they would never end!
What is your favorite cigar brand and why? I am interested since you are far more knowledgable than I. It is always good to hear different opinions.
Thanks again and keep up the good work. I have linked to you site from mine, -FUPPETS-
Rob
Thank you, Roberto! I don’t know if we were formally introduced but I do remember you from the event. Rocky Patel is great- the decade is probably my favorite from him. Definitely worth a taste.
My favorite is Tatuaje, I love Nicaraguan cigars and he is very traditional in his cigars. They are lovely smokes that are full of flavor, and I never want them to end. The reservas are my favorites when you can find them- the Noellas especially. The La Riquezas are pretty tasty too I must say, earthy and with velvety hints of dark chocolate- nom.
I like medium to full body cigars in general, and size can vary for me based on the cigar and my mood. Sometimes the smaller ones are nice for the wrapper to filler ratio- you can enjoy more of the wrapper flavors. There is never a bad decision though, only a new experience.
Oliva and Padron are some others I enjoy regularly as well, but honestly I would say be open to trying everything- and try a cigar at least twice before making judgment.
Speak with your tobacconist, that is what they are there for and they are they are more than delighted to guide you along as I will here as well. Ken from Santa Barbara and Van from Cigar Emporium are a great and both make it a very comfortable and interesting experience.