Tasting whiskey is more than taking a sip — it’s about slowing down and discovering the layers hidden in every glass. In this episode of Smoke Signals Audio, we break down the step-by-step process of how to taste whiskey like a pro.

From choosing the right glassware to nosing properly, from the first acclimating sip to the second sip that unlocks real flavor, you’ll learn how to approach whiskey with confidence. We’ll also talk about why adding a few drops of water can reveal surprising aromas, how to evaluate the finish, and simple ways to sharpen your palate over time.

If you’ve ever wondered why enthusiasts talk about notes of fruit, spice, or oak, this episode will give you the framework to start recognizing them for yourself. Whiskey tasting isn’t complicated — it’s mindful. And once you know the steps, every pour becomes more rewarding.

When you’re ready to take it further, visit CigarAndWhiskeyGuide.com for the full written guide, plus articles on cigar pairings, whiskey reviews, and lifestyle tips for enjoying the leaf and the dram.

Thanks for reading Smoke Signals! Subscribe for free to receive new posts and support my work.

Mark Twain’s 300-Cigar Habit

Mark Twain was more than a writer and humorist — he was one of history’s most notorious cigar smokers. His lifelong love of cigars became a defining part of his personality, and the anecdotes around his habit are as legendary as his novels.

Twain’s Early Start with Cigars

Twain often joked, “I never smoked cigars until I was nine.” That line, part humour and part truth, reflected how early his love affair with tobacco began. By his thirties, he claimed to be smoking around 300 cigars a month. On heavy writing days, he admitted to lighting as many as fifteen cigars in just a few hours at his desk.

Cheap Smokes over Luxury

Unlike today’s cigar enthusiasts who seek out rare and premium blends, Twain was happiest with cheap, strong cigars. He famously turned down expensive Havanas, saying they “tasted terrible” to him. When offered a fine cigar, Twain told him, “I can’t smoke this. It’s too good. Send me something cheap and nasty.”

This preference wasn’t about status — for Twain, cigars were companions, not collectibles.

The Many Quitting Attempts

Twain’s wife, Olivia (Livy), once persuaded him to cut back. For a time, he reduced his intake from dozens of cigars a day to just four. But the moment she left on a trip, Twain returned to his usual pace. He immortalized the experience in one of his best one-liners:

Twain on Quitting

“Giving up smoking is the easiest thing in the world. I know because I’ve done it thousands of times.”

Cigars as Creative Fuel

Cigars weren’t just a pastime — they were part of Twain’s creative process. Friends recalled his study filled with smoke, a fresh cigar always in hand. Twain admitted cigars kept him company during long writing hours, helping shape both his mood and his imagination.

Twain’s Cigar Legacy

Despite doctors’ warnings, Twain lived to 74. When asked if cigars might shorten his life, he replied with another unforgettable line: “If smoking is not allowed in heaven, I shall not go.”

His cigar habit may sound excessive today, but it reflected an unapologetic approach to living. For Twain, cigars weren’t luxuries to be savoured — they were everyday companions that fueled creativity, humour, and resilience.

Thanks for reading Smoke Signals! Subscribe for free to receive new posts and support my work.

Churchill’s Smoke-Filled War Rooms: The Iconic Leader and His Cigars

How Winston Churchill’s Cigars Became Symbols of Power and Resilience

Winston Churchill was rarely seen without a cigar, but his love for premium smokes was far more than just a personal indulgence — it was a part of his persona, his strategy, and even his legend. In this episode of Smoke Signals, we take you deep into the London War Rooms, where the air was thick with both tension and the aroma of Cuban cigars.

Churchill’s preference for Romeo y Julieta cigars, his signature 7-inch “Churchill” size, and his bold habit of smoking through bombing raids all contributed to the image of an unshakable leader. He even had a custom oxygen mask designed so he could smoke mid-flight during World War II, a story that perfectly captures his defiance and charm.

We’ll explore how cigars played a role in his diplomacy with Roosevelt and Stalin, his daily ritual of smoking 8–10 cigars, and how a simple puff of smoke became a symbol of resilience for Britain.

Join us as we uncover Churchill’s cigar legacy and how his smoking habits still influence the culture of fine cigars today.

🎙️ Podcast Episode: The 6 Types of Cigar Smokers

Which Cigar Personality Are You?

Every cigar smoker has a story — and a style that’s uniquely their own. In this episode of Smoke Signals, we dive into the six cigar personalities that bring flavor and character to the lounge.

From Tommy the Traditionalist 🥃 with his love for ritual and fine Scotch, to Wally the Weekender 🍔 who lights up with a cold drink and a laugh, each personality offers a fresh way to see the world of cigars. You’ll meet Calvin the Collector, Sabrina the Sophisticate, Max the Minimalist, and Nico the Newbie — each with their own vibe, preferences, and perfect smokes.

This episode is a fun, insightful look at cigar culture — the quirks, the rituals, and the people behind the smoke. Which personality are you?

👉 Hit play, find your match, and discover why there’s no one “right” way to enjoy a cigar.

https://www.smoke-signals.life/p/6-types-of-cigar-smokers

Podcast Episode: How to Review Cigars Like a Pro

Want to take your cigar game to the next level? Whether you’re just getting started or have years of smoking under your belt, knowing how to review a cigar is a skill that transforms every session into a richer experience.

In this episode of Smoke Signals Audio, we dive into the art of cigar tasting — from appreciating the wrapper and aroma to understanding how flavor evolves across the first, second, and final thirds. You’ll learn why descriptive reviews matter more than numbers, how to hone your palate, and how to pair cigars with drinks like coffee ☕, whiskey 🥃, or craft beer for an unforgettable smoke.

What You’ll Discover in This Episode:

* The essential steps for reviewing cigars like a pro

* How to identify and describe cigar flavor profiles

* Common mistakes to avoid when smoking and pairing

* Why lifestyle-driven reviews matter more than scores

🎧 Hit play to explore the ritual, the flavors, and the art of enjoying cigars.

Want more? Read the full article “How to Review Cigars Like a Pro” on Smoke Signals and subscribe for fresh stories, pairings, and cigar wisdom delivered straight to your inbox.

Welcome to Smoke Signals: The Cigar & Whiskey Podcast

Welcome to Smoke Signals, the Cigar and Whiskey Podcast.

In this first episode, Bo Kauffmann introduces the spirit of the show — a place for cigar lovers, whiskey enthusiasts, and anyone who values the art of slow living.

Discover what to expect in upcoming episodes, from premium cigar reviews to whiskey pairings and the rituals that make every moment worth savoring.