Shopping for Cigars in Puerto Vallarta Xaman Ek - PV Guide
go to original October 2, 2012

Love cigars? Why not consider stopping in at the local cigar shops here in Puerto Vallarta. With so many aromatic cigars to choose from, you are sure to find one that suits your palate.

Mexican Cigars

Mexico offers its own brand of cigars which are known to have a multi-dimensional flavor. Mexico is known for its fine collection of puros, cigars made from the blending of Mexican tobacco with that of other Latin American countries.

Mexican tobacco is harvested from the mountains of Veracruz which are close to the Gulf of Mexico. There, the climate is humid and mild, allowing the tobacco to reach a flavorful concentration. Mexican cigars tend to be less expensive than those of other countries, making them a very affordable luxury and souvenir.

Central or South American Cigars

While Cuban cigars are considered the best in the world, other varieties rival their flavor. In fact, some connoisseurs prefer a Dominican, Honduran or Nicaraguan cigar over a Cuban. The top price for a Dominican or Nicaraguan cigar would be equivalent to that of a mediocre Cuban, making it worth the price to try a good cigar. Some recommend the Padron 1926 (Nicaragua) or the hard to find Arturo Fuente Opus X (Dominican).

Cuban Cigars

Cuban cigars have a certain sexy appeal. They are "forbidden fruit" for Americans who are technically breaking the law to even purchase a Cuban cigar internationally. Also, these cigars are grown in the perfect climate and expertly rolled by torcedores.

Counterfeit Cuban cigars can be found all over Vallarta, but it's best to avoid these sources and head for one of Vallarta's cigar stores that carry authentic Cuban cigars.

1. The Vallarta Cigar Factory has two downtown Puerto Vallarta locations. Visitors can watch the staff hand roll Mexican cigars using a blend of tobaccos for premium flavor. They offer special orders and cigar presentations for special events.

2. El Gato Gordo is a quaint shop located in Old Town Vallarta. They have a nice selection of Cuban cigars such as Cohibas, Monte Christos and H. Upmanns as well as Mexican and house cigars, flavored tobacco, pipes and accessories. Their friendly staff is happy to offer cigar consultation for novice shoppers.

3. La Bodeguita del Medio is not only a source of Cuban cigars, but it is also a Cuban restaurant and bar. Located on the Malecon on the corner of Calle Allende, you can select from their name brand collection of genuine Cuban cigars.

What to Look for When Buying a Cuban Cigar

Because Cuban cigars tend to be more expensive, you can gauge the authenticity by the price tag. Typically, a box of 25 Cohiba Esplendidos go for $200 US in Cuba. Once you add on import tax, shipping and profitability, the price comes to approximately $250 US. All cigars should have a Cuban government seal with a visible watermark only seen with a black light.

How to Select a Cigar

Rival any cigar aficionado with these helpful selection tips:

1. Humidors – The best cigar stores are humidors which control the temperature and humidity for prime flavor and enjoyment.
2. Texture – With a gentle touch, lightly squeeze the cigar. A fresh, high-quality cigar will give slightly. If the outer layer has lumps or soft areas, continue your search.
3. Moisture – If a cigar is too dry, it'll burn too rapidly. If a cigar is too moist, it'll burn unevenly and give off an acidic taste. Look for a cigar that is stored in 68-72% humidity.
4. Origin – Central or South American cigars are superior to European or North American cigars.
5. Size – Length and width vary greatly depending on the brand. Bigger cigars do not mean that the flavor is better. Keep in mind that selection sizes are noted with nicknames such as Corona, Panatela or Presidente. If you're a novice cigar smoker, start on the small end. If you're planning to smoke your cigar for a long time, choose a longer cigar with a larger ring gauge.
6. Look – Cigar etiquette dictates that smelling your cigar prior to purchase is tacky. A mere look will tell you about its quality. Does it have cracks or discoloration? Are there lumps or stems in the leaf wrapper? If you answered yes, find a better cigar. If your selection is smoothly wrapped with a slight oil sheen, then you have a winner.
7. Age – Cigars improve with age. For optimum enjoyment, allow your cigar to age for several months. (Some cigar connoisseurs wait up to ten years to light up a particular cigar.) Invest in a humidor to appropriately age your cigars.

A Word of Caution

Cuban cigars are illegal in the U.S. If you are of international citizenship and have a layover on American soil, do not have a Cuban cigar on your person or in your belongings. Fines can be up to $65,000 per violation.

Sources: articles.cnn.com, shavemagazine.com