Comradery, sharing and living in the moment are all words that are found popular in the world of cigars. Over the last year, I’ve had quite a privilege to get to know some of the well-known personalities on Instagram that have a knack and great knowledge about cigars. As an outsider, what I initially saw was a skewed perception of cigar aficionados. Snobs who wear suits, expensive flashy jewelry, smoking an old vintage Cuban cigar, while eating their filet minion covered in gold at a high-end steakhouse, looking down on the little people smoking a drew estate cigar.
Little did I know just how wrong I have been. It was only through the pure sheer experience of my own adventures with cigars, that I realized the cigar world is probably the most inclusive tribe you can belong to. The plethora of knowledge and hospitality, the sharing of rare cigars and the humbling conversations you have with the #Botl and #Sotl equally are unforgettable experiences.
This journey has taught me that life is all about experiences. It does not matter what you have or don’t have, it’s more about slowing down and taking the time to just enjoy good company while smoking a cigar and drinking a dram of good whisky. On our deathbeds in the near future (and we will all be there, some sooner than later), we will look back on those memories and comprehend the true meaning of what it’s meant to be alive.
Today’s interview is with Ingvar or as he’s known on Instagram @Ingvarscigarpage.
Ingvar please tell us a little about yourself and how you found yourself in the world of cigars.
IL: My name is Ingvar! I live south of Guthenburg on the west coast of Sweden with my Wife Jeanette. We have two grown children. One who still lives at home with us. I run an IT company so I’m very happy to work with my hobby. I have smoked cigars most of my life, but until 10 years ago mostly during holidays or on occasions. During winter 4 and half years ago I lost both my parents and cigars gave me a perfect way to sit and contemplate by myself while burning a stick or two.
We’re sorry to hear Ingvar, losing parents never gets easier. Your Instagram page @ingvarscigarpage features some rare and vintage Cuban cigars. Are you only a fan of Cuban cigars or do you explore cigars from all over the world? If Cubans only, what is it about these sticks that you find so appealing?
IL: I’m really fond of Regional Edition Cubans and try to find local boxes whenever I travel. I smoke Cubans most often but far from exclusive. I really like Non-Cuban cigars too like for example the OpusX from Fuente. It all depends on what I pair with it.
We see that you love to pair your cigars with espresso or coffee beverages even whisky or rum sometimes. Which cigar and pairing have been the most memorable for you and why?
IL: Yes I do. I love a medium Cuban in the morning paired with a nice espresso. At night if I feel for a smoky whisky like an Ardbeg and I need a stronger cigar to balance it like an Opus.
The third important thing for me is where I smoke! My favorite pairing was and still is the Montecristo EL2008 paired with a Ron Zacapa XO when on my yearly summer holiday in Palma de Mallorca, Spain
What is the most important thing your followers should know about you? And what are you most proud of in your life?
IL: I always try to be as polite as possible and try to answer all questions and comments. I think people today think too much about themselves and not enough about others. Always be a gentleman…
I’m proud of my family and that all I have, I have created myself.
Money is for buying stuff, what was the last purchase you made where it was more about the experience and not about the price tag.
IL: Don’t get me wrong but it is never about the money. I’m not rich but I get by. It’s all about what you prioritize right?
Tell us your favorite cigar and why?
IL: As I said earlier the Monte EL2008 but it depends on how much time, and with what. I was lucky to get a few boxes back in 2013-14 and it’s just the right age for a Cuban in my opinion.
As you know, many people consider whisky that is older to be far superior to the younger stuff. Would you say from personal experience smoking some fantastic cigars that this holds true in the cigar world as well? Or have you found yourself being surprised by some younger sticks? If so which ones?
IL: In General 5-6 years on Cubans is the sweet spot. I think but it’s plenty of cigars that are good after a few months! They usually get better though. Non-Cuban sticks, in my opinion, don’t have to be stored that long.
Besides cigars and spirits what else do you enjoy doing in your free time?
IL: Besides the most important, my family I do enjoy to travel. If I can find the time I try to stay healthy with Tennis, running, and go a few miles on my bike.
Let’s get into proper way of cutting the cigar, tasting it and finally lighting it. There are far too many rules what’s the best way to do this. What is your process like from picking out the cigar to lighting it
IL: This is the least important for me! I have been known to cut it with my nails or bite it off. I’ll try to light it with a good torch lighter or cedar sticks though! Never with a butane lighter. Regarding what to pick I often pick what to pair with first and after that, I pick the cigar.
Anything else you want to share with our readers?
IL: Be kind to everyone regardless of color, religion, sex or orientation.
Mr. Ingvar I like the true spirit of your healthy mind. The best thing is cigar made you philosophically strong. Thanks to your good companion.