The Finer Things In Life

Indulgence in the forbidden has always been a major element of my life. The simple fact that something is taboo will make it more appealing to me. Tell me I shouldn't do something, and I will make it a point to do exactly that. If it's bad for me, then it must be really good.

Cigars are probably my biggest guilty pleasure. About 5 years ago, I decided to take up this new hobby, and I haven't looked back since. It's been one of the most rewarding, relaxing, and expensive hobbies I've found. A close second (expense-wise) would be brewing beer...but that's mostly equipment start up. Cigars have proved to not only be a relaxing pastime, but an added common link in which to connect with my father. We go out in the yard with a six pack of beer and a couple Cubans, and just talk. I can't really think of any finer moments than that.

Anyways, I present my latest acquisition: A box of Cuaba Distinguidos from 2007; The most, in my opinion, underrated cigar on the market. As you can see, these things are big. They usually take about an hour and a half to smoke. I've smoked everything from Fonseca's to Cohiba's. Montecristo, Bolivar, Ramon Allones, La Gloria Cubana, Partagas and on and on and on. I've had the cheapest of the cheap and I've had cigars that go for over $30 a piece, but this remains my favorite. This is actually the third box I've bought of this particular cigar, and I've never bought more than one box of any other. As far as flavor profiles, my pallet is not sophisticated enough to detect all the nuances of a cigar. I know what I like, and I know what I don't like, but I'll be damned if I could tell you which ones are "earthy" or not.

I purchased this particular box in anticipation of yet another few memorable smoking sessions. My brother is coming up this week, so that is a special occasion in and of itself. I hardly even get to see him once a year, so I'm looking forward to smoking a cigar with him and my dad. I've offered up a copule of pictures for you to be jealous over, and I'll be sure to document their demise. Part two will follow.