The darker the cigar, the sweeter and stonger the flavor is likely to be, in addition, the wrapper will have a greater oil and sugar content. Darker wrappers have spent longer time on the tobacco plant or have come from higher altitudes, extra exposure to sunlight produces both oil and sugar. They will also have been fermented longer. Colorado cigars are reddish brown in color, usually aromatic and also associated with well-matured cigars. They are also thought of as the traditional Cuban color.
Oscuro cigars are black, very stong with little bouquet and are very rare.
To light a cigar, cut the un-cut end but not too near the bottom. Light the cigar by holding the end 1-2 inches from a slow burining flame then put the cigar to your mouth, making sure to light it evenly. Etiquette states the band should be removed prior to smoking - but opinions vary. Cedar helps to preserve cigars and aids the maturing process. For more information see our Glossary of Cigar Terms.