Bourdeaux Tastes, Hoboken Budget

I may come across as an elitist to some. After all, I frequently complain about people buying cigars in gas stations or serving wine from a box. However, these two pet peeves actually run contrary to one of my life philosophies, "do what makes you happy." My complaint has never been about Dutch Masters cigars, merely that people think they are the finest. To me, that is like asking a person what their favorite restaurant in New York is only to have them reply, "McDonalds!"

Think Outside the Box

Indeed, lower budgets need not destroy the ambiance of the evening, nor does it mean you have to compromise your tastes. Indeed, I will gladly share a glass of a Black Box Wine with any generous patron. There exist few things which kill the mood for me as when the box of wine sits on the table just waiting to be poured. However, if you really love that boxed wine, it would be foolish to avoid serving it. Consider pouring enough for your guests to enjoy into a wine decanter. The decanter seems to be falling by the wayside, most likely because people wish to avoid making more of a mess to clean up. However, allowing your wine to breathe, even if it came in a bottle, will enhance the flavor experience.

Ask About House Brands

On a trip through Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania I stopped in at one of the finest smoke shops outside of of New York City called El Humidor. While there the owner offered me the opportunity to try the El Humidor store brand. I found it to be comparable to Romeo y Julieta, superior to Macanudo and half the price of either. The same may be true for house wines in restaurants and dealers. Just because you haven't heard of it does not mean it isn't enjoyable. While I enjoy a Monte Cristo, I recognize that I am mainly paying for a name.

Monthly Clubs

I have belonged to both monthly wine clubs and monthly cigar clubs. For the latter, I am particularly fond of Thompson Cigars. The prices are generally slightly lower than your average smoke shop and free promotional items can be had at the drop of a hat. Thompson has graciously given me lighters, sample cigars and even humidors for free. Even if you opt to go with another club, consider sampler packs as a means of trying new things and keeping an eclectic assortment in your humidor, wine rack or other personal collection. I have found many great deals in various wine clubs as well, being introduced to previously unheard of brands that are now household names in my home.

I'm not an elitist, really, I'm not. But I do enjoy a fine cigar and a glass of wine (no matter the vessel it was sold in). If you are going to entertain, remember that presentation makes it all happen. If you insist upon Dutch Masters but keep them in your well kept humidor then I'm sure Winston Churchill would be proud to strike one up at your next affair. However, serving Dom Perignon in an old jelly jar would probably fail to impress. You don't need to cash in the kid's college fund, just use a little common sense and let your own tastes guide you.