cabs v boxes. quality.

Ken Gargett · June 3, 2005

a while back, there was some discussion about the quality of cigars from boxes and those from cabinets. as mentioned at the time, said i'd try and get some thoughts from havana. just got this from one of my mates and he is keen for thoughts/news on the smoking restrictions in australia. if anyone has anything that they'd like to say, will pass it on.

"As regards to the fact you mentioned that (cabinet) Slide Lid Boxes zgrs are better than semi plain boxes zgrs, I would like to mention there’s no much difference at all. See, the cigars taken to the Sorting Table to be grade them by colour shades come from different rollers’ tables doing the same size either for 25 and 50 units boxes. Maybe the wrapper may look different but undoubtedly the flavour doesn’t. Generally speaking, the thicker the cigar the fuller the flavour although each brand has its own characteristics. For instance, Ramón Allones is known for its rich flavours regardless of the size or shape, H. Upmann, by contrast, is often regarded as a lighter, more delicate smoke. The aim of the wrapper is to please the eye of the beholder. Silky cigars are more attractive, showy and make people salivate while in their hands. Some are more tasteful than others without mentioning the limited editions. But at the end, it’s a matter of likings.

I would like to hear more about the regulations against cigars approved in Australia. I haven’t heard anything but bad news. Our regulations are being implemented now a little bit harder than February, when the new laws banning smoking in public areas started. We don’t agree on putting cigarettes and cigars in the same pack and under the same health restrictions. It’s like banning paella in Spain, or drinking champagne in France."