Exclusive Interview with Suhayfa Bhamjee
When did you start smoking cigars?
My first adventure into cigars was when I was at varsity. Started out with those cherry-flavoured ‘cigars’. Certainly did make a statement. And that’s how it grew on me. Then, as I got more into it, and did a bit of reading, I realised that these weren’t ‘actual’ cigars. So I started trying out different sticks. And the rest is a happy cloud of smoky history.
What is your opinion ON smoking cigars?
This is a great question. One that can be quite polarising. It’s the type of thing that you either like or hate. Obviously, I’m one who likes it, a lot. As I’ve gotten into it, and met a lot of fellow people-of-the-leaf, it’s been such a liberating and fulfilling experience. Smoking cigars is certainly not about being rich, or snooty, or pretentious. It really is just a great way to unwind, and have some ‘me-time’. It’s also a great conversation starter. But, with anything, I’d still say, enjoy responsibly. The community of POTL is so vast and varied – people from all walks of life and skill-sets enjoy cigars; and despite our philosophical or ideological differences, we can all find some common ground on which to commune.
Of course, there are heated debates about which cigars are ‘better’, but that’s also a big part of what makes the conversations fun.
I don’t know many women who enjoy cigars, and I wish there were more. But that being said, I will say that I’ve never been treated or made to feel like my opinions on cigars do not matter. The gentlemen in our Cigar Club have always been real gentlemen, and have treated me as an equal. Many didn’t know I was a lady until much later, lol. Goes to show that cigars aren’t reserved for any particular gender or class. We are just a group of people who enjoy cigars. And that’s ALL that matters.
Do you have a favourite or preferred cigar that you always smoke?
Another great question that I’m not sure how to answer. For me, the cigar I choose depends a lot on my mood, the time I have, even the weather! So there’s a lot of thought when I dip into my humidor and decide which stick to light up. I suppose, if I’m pressed for an answer, I’d have to say that my go-to cigar is the Davidoff Escurio (petit robusto). This Davidoff is an easy 45 minute herf, smooth and chilled. It’s the one I’m smoking now, as I answer these questions Well, I rotate between three actually, the Davidoff, the Drew Estate Undercrown Maduro (corona pequena), and the AJ Fernandex Last Call Maduro. Gosh, tough choice! But these three are definitely permanent features in my humidor, and ones I reach for when I’m at my desk, doing some deep-thinking.
What is your favourite vitola and why?
I’m partial to the robusto and belicoso. They feel comfortable in the hand. But, the ‘flying-pig’ is also a firm favourite. So these are the vitolas I’m drawn to. I don’t box myself in though, because over the years, I’ve learnt that the vitola also makes a difference to the flavour. So try the same cigar in different vitolas and see what works best for you. Also, the vitola itself can be quite a head-turner! You should have seen the looks I got when I lit up the Aganorsa Leaf Lunatic!
You should have seen the looks I got when I lit up the Aganorsa Leaf Lunatic!
What is your favourite cigar brand?
I have a list of 5 that I will always have at hand and in my humidor, and they’re in no particular order of favourite’ness:
Davidoff, Drew Estate, My Father, Room 101, Black Label Trading Company, and Arturo Fuente.
I’m not a great fan of Cubans… but we can debate that another day lol.
If you had to influence other women to take up smoking cigars, what would your advice be?
Well, I’d say, try it. You’ll only know if it’s the pass-time for you if you do. Cigar Club SA is a great place to ask questions and find out what type of cigars are out there. The members have a wealth of knowledge that they are all eager to share. It’s a safe-space in which to try something new, and learn what all the ‘hype’ is about.
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