What to Smoke: Rocky Patel

Cigar smoking is among the most refined of habits. Like fine wine they take time to appreciate. They must be savored and allowed to rest. They have depth and dimension that escapes a novice. There are dozens of good cigar makers, but Rocky Patel can be counted among the absolute best. The decade (pictured) is my favorite for their rich flavor and easy draw, but they're a limited, anniversary edition and increasingly hard to come by. Patel makes some outstanding vintage cigars as well, but their Edge maduros are excellent and a great value at around $5 a stick. They have a certain richness and spice, a medium to easy draw, and a supple feel in the hand. If you're going to irritate everyone around you at the bar, these are the cigars to do it with.