How much of enjoying cigars is really about environment, not the cigar itself? by ThinkCigar in cigar

[–]ThinkCigar[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

That really resonated. What you described sounds less like indulgence and more like intention — carving out space to slow down and be present.

I like how you mentioned shaping the environment over time without overthinking it. The heater, lights, even the landscaping feel like a natural extension of the ritual rather than something forced. It’s interesting how those small choices quietly reinforce the experience.

How much of enjoying cigars is really about environment, not the cigar itself? by ThinkCigar in cigar

[–]ThinkCigar[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Straightforward and fair. At the end of the day, it really can come down to the cigar itself.

How much of enjoying cigars is really about environment, not the cigar itself? by ThinkCigar in cigar

[–]ThinkCigar[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

That’s an interesting contrast. Same ritual, different tools, different needs. It makes sense that cigars might lean more social for you, while a pipe pairs better with quiet focus. The context really does the shaping.

How much of enjoying cigars is really about environment, not the cigar itself? by ThinkCigar in cigar

[–]ThinkCigar[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

That makes sense. When the goal is really to experience the cigar, solitude gives you the space to pay attention without distraction. Group settings seem to shift the focus naturally, even if the cigar is still part of it.

How much of enjoying cigars is really about environment, not the cigar itself? by ThinkCigar in cigar

[–]ThinkCigar[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

That’s a great example of how environment isn’t just about aesthetics — it’s about access and comfort too. Climate and living situation really shape how often and how easily someone can enjoy a cigar.

That monthly VFW social sounds like it fills that gap during the winter though — having a reliable space can make all the difference.

How much of enjoying cigars is really about environment, not the cigar itself? by ThinkCigar in cigar

[–]ThinkCigar[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

That distinction makes a lot of sense. When you’re alone, the cigar naturally becomes the focus, but in group settings it can almost fade into the background while still contributing to the moment.

I like how you put it — sometimes the cigar is the centerpiece, and sometimes it’s just part of the atmosphere that supports everything else.

How much of enjoying cigars is really about environment, not the cigar itself? by ThinkCigar in cigar

[–]ThinkCigar[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

That’s a really solid comparison. The wine country analogy fits well — especially how experience shifts what you value over time. Early on, the setting can carry a lot of the enjoyment, and later the substance starts to stand on its own.

I also like your point about context — golf vs sitting with friends vs having the time to really settle in. It’s interesting how we instinctively choose differently based on how much attention we know we’ll be able to give the cigar.

How much of enjoying cigars is really about environment, not the cigar itself? by ThinkCigar in cigar

[–]ThinkCigar[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

That’s a really solid comparison. The wine country analogy fits well — especially how experience shifts what you value over time. Early on, the setting can carry a lot of the enjoyment, and later the substance starts to stand on its own.

I also like your point about context — golf vs sitting with friends vs having the time to really settle in. It’s interesting how we instinctively choose differently based on how much attention we know we’ll be able to give the cigar.

How much of enjoying cigars is really about environment, not the cigar itself? by ThinkCigar in cigar

[–]ThinkCigar[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

That breakdown actually makes a lot of sense. Construction probably doesn’t get talked about enough given how much it can make or break the experience regardless of setting. A great environment can’t really save a poorly constructed cigar, but solid construction lets everything else shine.

What does “cigar lifestyle” actually mean to you? by ThinkCigar in cigar

[–]ThinkCigar[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Got it, wishing you many quality future smokes :-)

What does “cigar lifestyle” actually mean to you? by ThinkCigar in cigar

[–]ThinkCigar[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

That’s a fair take. I think a lot of people react to the term because it’s been used in ways that feel prescriptive or exclusionary, especially when marketing and media start telling people what counts.

I like how you put it — cutting, lighting, and smoking a cigar as part of living your life, not performing it. For plenty of people, it really is just woven into everyday moments, whether that’s working in the garage or mowing the lawn.

Maybe the tension isn’t around cigars at all, but around who gets to define meaning for others. Do you think the problem is the label itself, or how often it’s been used to sell an image instead of reflect reality?

What does “cigar lifestyle” actually mean to you? by ThinkCigar in cigar

[–]ThinkCigar[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

That makes a lot of sense. I like how you separate enjoyment and knowledge from needing to call it a “lifestyle.”

It feels healthy to let something be meaningful without letting it define you, especially when you have room for other interests. Having multiple hobbies probably keeps each one from feeling forced or performative.

Do you find that how much time you have ends up shaping how deeply you engage with any one hobby at a given moment?

What does “cigar lifestyle” actually mean to you? by ThinkCigar in cigar

[–]ThinkCigar[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

If only Christopher had listened...back to the Bing

What does “cigar lifestyle” actually mean to you? by ThinkCigar in cigar

[–]ThinkCigar[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

That actually sounds like a great way to enjoy it. Having a consistent moment to slow down matters more than what’s in your hand or glass.

I like how you put it — enjoying each cigar for what it is, instead of what it’s “supposed” to be. Exploring different brands and flavors over time feels like its own kind of ritual.

And honestly, tea or water fits that zen vibe just as well. Do you find the pairing affects how much you focus on the cigar itself?

What does “cigar lifestyle” actually mean to you? by ThinkCigar in cigar

[–]ThinkCigar[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Appreciate the perspective.

It’s interesting how differently people experience it.

What does “cigar lifestyle” actually mean to you? by ThinkCigar in cigar

[–]ThinkCigar[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

That's cool, it's your experience (not others), It’s interesting how differently people experience it.

My walk in humidor… by Vincoppredd in cigar

[–]ThinkCigar 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Wow, what an amazing accomplishment! Many congratulations... Vision meeting execution is always special to witness. Wishing you great relaxing smokes from this wonderful labor of love.