Monte’s
Journal
Welcome to Monte’s Journal, where we embark on a journey through the world of premium cigars and expert tips.
Tobacco Topics
Cigars
Pipes
Events
Featured Products
Tobacco Legislation
Community
Advocacy
Maintenance
Finding the Right Cigar Based on Your Experience
Cigars come in a wide variety of shapes, sizes, and flavors, making them a versatile choice for smokers at all experience levels. Whether you're just getting started or you're a seasoned enthusiast,...
Lighting Up for Veterans: Honoring Our Troops with Cigar Traditions
Celebrating Veterans Day provides a meaningful opportunity to honor the courage, commitment, and sacrifices made by America’s military members. Many veterans, from past and present conflicts, have...
Types of Cigars – A Beginner’s Guide to the Most Common Cigar Types
Cigars come in different shapes, sizes, and even flavors, just like how there are many types of candy! Some of the most popular types of cigars are called Churchill, Robusto, Maduro, and Torpedo....
How Humidors Are Made: Keeping Cigars Safe and Fresh
If you’ve ever seen a cigar box that’s specially designed to keep cigars fresh, you’ve seen a humidor! Humidors are like homes for cigars, keeping them at the right temperature and humidity to make...
What’s the Difference Between Cuban Cigars and Non-Cuban Cigars?
Cuban cigars have held an almost mythic status in the cigar world for decades. Known for their craftsmanship, flavor profiles, and rich history, they are often considered the gold standard by many...
How Long Can a Cigar Last if Stored Properly?
Cigar lovers take great care in preserving their prized collection, understanding that cigars, like fine wine, age and improve over time if handled correctly. But how long can a cigar actually last...
How Cigars Are Flavored: The Art of Infusion and Flavoring Techniques
Cigar smoking is an experience driven by more than just the tobacco. For many aficionados, the subtle nuances and rich variety of flavors that cigars offer are what set them apart from other forms...
Why Cigars Come in Different Shapes and Sizes: A Guide for Enthusiasts
Cigars are not just a smoking product—they’re an experience. One of the first things you might notice when you explore the world of cigars is the sheer variety in their shapes and sizes. From the...
How to Cut a Cigar: Types of Cuts and Their Purpose
Cutting a cigar is a critical first step before lighting up. A well-executed cut preserves the integrity of the cigar, allows for smooth airflow, and ensures the best smoking experience. With so...
Are Cigars Better Than Cigarettes? What Are The Differences Between Them?
When it comes to the long-standing debate between cigars and cigarettes, the two often get lumped together simply because they involve smoking tobacco. However, the experiences, health risks, and...
The Best Guide to Keeping Cigars: Longevity, Storage, and How to Spot a Bad Cigar
Cigars are more than just a smoking experience—they are a work of craftsmanship, culture, and history. Whether you're a seasoned aficionado or just starting your cigar journey, knowing how to store...
Monte’s Cigars & Pipe Tobacco: Re-Launch Celebration on August 30th!
At Monte's Cigars & Pipe Tobacco, we are immensely proud to have served our customers and the Albuquerque community for 48 incredible years. It’s been our pleasure to provide a quality cigar...
Exciting News: Monte’s Is Here to Stay and Welcomes New Partner
We are thrilled to announce that Monte’s Cigars & Pipe Tobacco will continue to serve our loyal customers and the vibrant cigar community. This decision comes after much careful consideration...
Your Guide to Unlocking the Secrets of Cigar Flavor
For cigar enthusiasts, discerning the intricate flavor profile of a cigar is akin to savoring a fine wine or gourmet meal. From earthy undertones to hints of spice and sweetness, cigars offer a rich...
What’s Hot in the World of Cigars in 2023-2024?
As cigar enthusiasts, we are constantly intrigued by the evolving landscape of the cigar industry. From innovative blends to cutting-edge accessories, the world of cigars is always buzzing with new...
Cigar Pairing: Matching Cigars with Beverages and Foods
Cigar aficionados understand that the pleasure of smoking a fine cigar goes beyond just the tobacco itself. Pairing your cigar with the right beverage or food can enhance its flavors and create a...
Lighter Fluid vs Butane: Choosing the Right Fuel for Smoking
When it comes to lighting up your favorite cigar or pipe, the choice of fuel can significantly impact your smoking experience. While both lighter fluid and butane are commonly used for smoking, they...
Exploring the Growth of Tobacco Plants Around The World
Tobacco, the cornerstone of cigar and pipe tobacco production, undergoes a meticulous cultivation process in various regions worldwide. From the sun-soaked fields of the Caribbean to the fertile...
The PCA24 Convention & International Trade Show
Our Trip To The PCA 2024 Trade Show The PCA24 Convention & International Trade Show was an exciting trip for our team. Stepping into the convention center, we were greeted by the vibrant...
How To Master the Art of Keeping A Tobacco Pipe Burning
Smoking a pipe is not just an activity; it's an art form. From selecting the right tobacco blend to packing the bowl with care, every step in the process contributes to the overall smoking...
Understanding Boveda: A Comprehensive Guide
Humidity control is paramount when it comes to preserving the quality and flavor of your cigars and pipe tobacco. Whether you're a seasoned aficionado or just beginning to explore the world of...
Humidor Maintenance: How to Preserve Fine Tobacco
Maintaining a humidor and storing tobacco properly are essential tasks for any enthusiast of premium cigars and pipe tobacco. Proper storage not only ensures that your tobacco retains its flavor and...
Pipe Tobacco vs Cigars: Exploring the Key Differences
Pipe tobacco and cigars, both revered for their rich flavors and timeless appeal, hold distinct places in the world of tobacco enjoyment. While they share certain similarities, such as their use of...
Decoding Excellence: How to Identify a Good Cigar
For aficionados and newcomers alike, the pursuit of a good cigar is an art form in itself. It involves deciphering subtle nuances, understanding the language of tobacco, and appreciating the...
