Imagine trying to puff on a cigar while galloping in polo, dribbling in soccer, or hitting a home run.
Sounds like a comedy sketch, right?
Now, switch that scene to the golf course.
There you are, cigar in one hand, golf club in the other, cruising in your cart or waiting to tee up.
That cigar isn’t just an accessory; it’s the cherry on top of your golfing day.
Some sports and cigars mix like oil and water, but golf? It’s like peanut butter and jelly.
A quality cigar can really jazz up your game.
Victor Long, the former president at Victor Sinclair Cigars, nailed it in a chat with Cigar Aficionado. He said, "A round of golf gives people the time to enjoy cigars without interference. You're playing with friends, feeling the camaraderie. You're outside, enjoying the scenery. And cigars, of course, are all-natural, a part of nature. You probably couldn't find a more comfortable place to be with friends and smoke a cigar than a golf course."
Whether you're practically a pro or just starting to not totally embarrass yourself on the course, the right cigar can take your game from 'meh' to 'amazing.'
Here's our expert picks so you have them right away:
- Perdomo 10th Anniversary Champagne Epicure
- Romeo y Julieta Reserva Real Churchill
- Spanish Galleon Classic Presidente
- Ashton Classic Churchill
- 601 Blue Label Toro
Keep reading if you want to learn how to pick the perfect cigars for golf and discover some top-notch choices that’ll have you feeling like a champ, even if your golf game says otherwise.
Key Takeaways
- Consider the size, strength, and burn time of your cigar for an optimal golfing experience
- Factor in the weather and wind conditions of the golf course when choosing cigars, and save pricier options for better smoking conditions
- Follow cigar etiquettes on the golf course, respecting both the game and your fellow players
Factors to Consider when Choosing Cigars for Golf
Before you hit up your friends for a competitive golf session with cigars, you have to choose the right one that will make the game even more memorable.
Here are some important factors to consider when choosing the best cigars for golf:
Size and Duration
When selecting a cigar for the golf course, keep in mind the average time it takes to play a round — usually over 4 hours for 18 holes.
The size of a cigar plays a major role in how long a cigar burns.
Consider your preference: do you lean towards a larger cigar, such as a Churchill, or do you favor something more modest, like a Corona?
Strength and Flavor
Tailor the strength of the cigar to the preferences of the typical golfer.
Lighter, milder cigars are perfect for daytime rounds, ensuring you enjoy the flavor without overwhelming your senses or causing a buzz that might have you shanking balls into the woods.
Construction and Burn
Golf involves movement and exposure to outdoor elements such as wind, so prioritize well-constructed premium cigars that burn evenly.
A cigar that can maintain a consistent burn even in light wind will enhance your enjoyment during the game.
Climate Considerations
Take into account the climate of the golfing environment. Cigars that thrive in humid, hot conditions may differ from those suitable for cooler, drier climates.
Additionally, since golf courses are often windy, choose cigars that won't be too affected by breezy conditions. You can save the more costly options for calmer smoking environments.
Cigar Etiquette on the Golf Course
Ready to up your golf game with a touch of class? Here are some key points to keep in mind:
- Mindful Placement: Enjoying cigars on the golf course is a pleasure, but be mindful of your fellow players. Avoid standing downwind and taking a puff, especially when others are about to shoot.
- Respecting the Grounds: Leaving cigar butts on the course is unsightly. Proper disposal in a trash can or a portable ashtray shows your respect for the golf course and nature. Make sure the cigar is completely out before disposing of it or pour water over the lit end just to be safe.
- Consider Others: Remember that not everyone shares the same enthusiasm for cigars. Be aware of your surroundings and fellow players to ensure everyone enjoys their time on the golf course.
- Use a Cigar Holder: Placing your cigar on the ground or on the grass can damage the course and leave unsightly marks. Additionally, you probably don't want to expose your cigar to fertilizer and chemicals used to maintain a golf course. Using a cigar holder or clip is a practical way to enjoy your cigar without harming the course.
Our Expert Picks of the 5 Best Golf Cigars
Whether you're a scratch golfer or someone who thinks 'birdie' is just a cute bird, our love for golf and cigars unites us!
With this in mind, we've teed up a list of the 5 best cigars for the golf course.
Perfect for celebrating that hole-in-one or forgetting the ball in the pond.
1. Perdomo 10th Anniversary Champagne Epicure
Country of Origin: Nicaragua
Shape: Toro
Size: 6 x 54
Strength: Mild - Medium
Grade: Hand Rolled / Long Filler
Color: Colorado Claro
Binder / Filler: Nicaragua / Nicaragua
Wrapper Type: Connecticut Shade
Nicaragua might bring to mind those bold, full-bodied cigars.
But, not all Nicaraguan smokes follow that script.
Introducing the Perdomo 10th Anniversary Champagne Epicure – it's a delightful surprise.
Is it Mild? Sure. But lacking in flavor? Not a chance.
This premium cigar boasts an intricate blend of Nicaraguan Cuban-seed binder and filler tobaccos.
The crowning glory is a six-year-old golden Connecticut shade wrapper, adding a touch of sophistication for your enjoyment.
For flavor profile, you'll find richness and depth, with hints of cocoa, cedar, leather, and nutty notes that end with a creamy finish.
It's the perfect mellow companion for a relaxing round of golf.
2. Romeo y Julieta Reserva Real Churchill
Country of Origin: Dominican Republic
Shape: Churchill
Size: 7 x 50
Strength: Mild - Medium
Grade: Hand Rolled / Long Filler
Color: Colorado Claro
Binder / Filler: Nicaragua / Dominican Republic, Nicaragua
Wrapper Type: Ecuadorian Connecticut
Strut onto the golf course in style with the 7 x 50 Romeo y Julieta Reserva Real Churchill.
It's a smooth, medium-bodied treat with a slick finish.
Crafted in the Dominican Republic's famous Tabacalera de Garcia factory, they're wrapped in a shiny, golden Ecuadorian Connecticut wrapper for an extra dash of elegance.
What makes these Connecticut-style cigars stand out is their blend of fuller-bodied tobaccos, offering a richer, more aromatic experience than its milder counterparts.
Decked out with a beautiful red band reminiscent of the classic 1875 Romeo y Julieta, the Reserva Real Churchill is definitely a conversation starter on the golf course.
3. Spanish Galleon Classic Presidente
Country of Origin: Dominican Republic
Shape: Presidente
Size: 7 1/2 x 54
Strength: Mild - Medium
Grade: Hand Rolled / Long Filler
Color: Colorado Claro
Binder / Filler: Dominican Habano / Dominican Republic, Nicaragua
Wrapper Type: Ecuadorian Connecticut
Meet the Spanish Galleon Classic Presidente, a budget-friendly cigar designed to elevate your 18-hole golfing experience without breaking the bank.
Crafted with precision, this cigar boasts a high-grade Ecuadorian Connecticut Seed wrapper, ensuring a rich and enjoyable journey of flavors.
As you tee up for your golfing session, the Spanish Galleon Classic promises a palate-pleasing performance.
A harmonious blend of Dominican and Nicaraguan filler tobaccos unfolds, delivering creamy and smooth flavors to accompany you through each swing and putt.
This cigar offers the perfect balance, offering just the right amount of spice and strength to elevate your golfing experience without overpowering it.
4. Ashton Classic Churchill
Country of Origin: Dominican Republic
Shape: Churchill
Size: 7 1/2 x 52
Strength: Mild - Medium
Grade: Hand Rolled / Long Filler
Color: Colorado Claro
Binder / Filler: Dominican Republic / Dominican Republic
Wrapper Type: Connecticut Shade
The Ashton Classic Churchill is truly a classic that challenges other cigars in the mellow category.
It's a smooth, mellow experience wrapped up in a sleek, creamy Connecticut shade wrapper.
Featuring a blend of the finest Dominican tobaccos aged 3-4 years, expect a rich, yet not overpowering, flavor.
On the palate you'll be greeted with delightful tastes of nuts, creaminess, and peppery spice.
The burn is slow and the construction is perfect, making the Ashton Classic Churchill an optimal candidate for one of the best mild cigars for golf.
5. 601 Blue Label Toro
Country of Origin: Nicaragua
Shape: Toro
Size: 6 1/4 x 54
Strength: Medium - Full
Grade: Hand Rolled / Long Filler
Color: Maduro
Binder / Filler: Nicaragua / Nicaragua
Wrapper Type: Connecticut Broadleaf Maduro
For golfers craving a cigar with a bit more oomph to match their swings, the 601 Blue Label Toro steps up to the tee.
While the previous options leaned towards the lighter side, this one is crafted for those who appreciate a stronger smoke to match their 300 yard drives.
Every cigar under the 601 brand is a creation by the one and only Erik Espinosa, a seasoned veteran in the tobacco industry.
Having collaborated with innovative brands like Drew Estate, Alec Bradley, and Gurkha, Espinosa brings his expertise to the forefront in each premium creation.
Handcrafted at Espinosa's La Zona factory in Nicaragua, the 601 Blue Label Maduro boasts a sleek, semi-box-pressed shape.
A dark, oily Connecticut broadleaf maduro wrapper adds a visually striking element and infuses a ripe, sweet accent to the flavor profile.
If you want something with a little more power, conquer the golf course while indulging in a 601 Blue Label Toro.
Teeing Off with Your Cigars Ready
As we approach the 18th hole of our cigar-golf journey, it's clear that choosing the right cigar is as important as selecting the right club.
Whether you're puffing on a mild classic while perfecting your putt or lighting up a bold beauty to celebrate that eagle, cigars add a dash of swagger to your swing.
Remember, the best golf cigar isn't just about taste; it's about turning each round into a story worth sharing at the 19th hole.
It doesn't matter if you're out driving your buddy by 30 yards or looking for your ball in the woods for the 10th time, a quality cigar will keep your spirits high and your stories even livelier.