Feeling the Burn

Much like the game of golf, cigar smoking is enjoying a bit of a renaissance. Perhaps the two are causally linked. After all, a languid round of golf and a leisurely smoked cigar do make for a great pairing on sun-splashed weekend afternoons.

Of course, it might just be a sign of the times, another example of the ways in which people are allowing themselves to more frequently indulge in life’s pleasurable vices. All things in moderation, they say. If that’s true, add expertly rolled tobacco to the top of the list.

Regardless of the how and why of it, cigar smoking is trending upward, and Cigora, a burgeoning online retailer of ultra-premium and boutique cigar brands—plus a slew of accessories that includes cutters, lighters, and humidors—is poised to be the go-to resource for novice and seasoned smokers, alike. “Cigars have always been something that bring people together,” says Matt Pysher, the company’s merchandising manager. “But with more people getting into the hobby, we feel there is an opportunity to really help foster the next generation of cigar smokers.”

That help can take many forms. It can be as straightforward as access to a diverse selection of ultra-premium and boutique brands (Cigora’s collection currently boasts five dozen producers and is steadily growing). It can manifest as a compendium of in-depth articles and how-to primers. Curious about pairing cigars with tequila, beer, or whiskey? This is the page for you. Looking for beginner tips or cigar lounge etiquette? Cigora has you covered there, too. It’s also a source for sampler packs that are organized using several different criteria—brand, featured tobacco, region, flavor profile, and more.

In a nod to the synergies between golf and cigars, Cigora’s Fairway Favorites Sampler is the perfect companion for a round with friends. Priced at just $69.99, this sampler offers exceptional value for a premium experience. The collection includes two cigars each of five different blends: Tatuaje Havana VI, Pledge by E.P. Carrillo, Oliva Serie V, Plasencia Reserva Original, and Cohiba Riviera.

Cigora’s next-generation approach to online cigar shopping (which includes free shipping on every order all the time) is designed to improve your smoking experiences, no matter where they take place. The staff is knowledgeable and passionate about what they do, which results in a wide-ranging selection of products to choose from. Rest assured, there’s a sampler pack to satisfy all interests and preferences, from full-bodied smokes to a 10-cigar collection curated specifically for newcomers to the hobby.

“It is always our goal to create a shopping and community environment that is inclusive of new smokers,” Pysher says. “We want Cigora to be the go-to home for any enthusiast who wants to experience everything that this exciting industry has to offer.”

Cigora even has a loyalty program, where regular shoppers can earn and redeem points based on their purchases, as well as their online engagement with the brand. Those interested in joining the Cigora community can create a profile here. Joining early could have its perks, as the Cigora team has big plans for the future, especially as it relates to those dedicated consumers. “We’re working on enhancing our loyalty program to provide long-term incentives for our customers,” says Pysher, “as well as developing new brands and exclusive products.”