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More than just a venue for upscale gatherings, Sorae Sushi Sake & Lounge is also the meeting point for those who enjoy the extravagant pastime of cigar indulgence.
More precisely, this is the gathering place for members of the Saigon Cigar Enthusiasts Club.
The term “Cigar,” or its Vietnamese phonetic equivalent “xì gà,” originates from the Mayan language, meaning “smoke.” The use of these tobacco leaves spread throughout Europe, reaching Spain, where it transformed phonetically into cigarro and cigarra, both meaning tobacco.
Native Americans have been indulging in cigars since ancient times, using them as ceremonial offerings in divine rituals and as a natural form of 'spirit medicine.' Christopher Columbus, the explorer who discovered the Americas, was also the first to introduce cigars to the world.
It wasn't until the 1800s that the modern cigar shape we know today gained acceptance and popularity. Since then, cigars have become a symbol of luxury for the elite worldwide.
Cigar indulgence – an extravagant delight of the high society
In contemporary times, cigars are cultivated in various South American countries like Brazil, the Dominican Republic, Nicaragua, and even in the Philippines and Indonesia. However, when it comes to premium cigars, Cuba takes the spotlight, a land blessed with the perfect combination of soil, temperature, humidity, and climate to produce the finest quality. The Vuelta Abajo valley in southern Cuba is truly a paradise for crafting exceptional cigars.
The cultivation of cigars typically kicks off during the hottest months of the year, June and July. Once the cigar plants reach a specific height, the meticulous process of leaf harvesting begins. Each plant undergoes a careful leaf-cutting procedure, allowing only 2-3 leaves to be harvested from the bottom up. The smaller leaves are picked first and utilized in crafting mini cigars.
After each round of leaf harvesting, several days of waiting are necessary before proceeding. Consequently, the cigar harvesting process often spans an entire month. However, on average, each cigar plant yields only 16 to 18 of the finest leaves, reserved for the production of premium cigars.
Cigars and whisky - a perfect match made in heaven
Following meticulous selection, the tobacco leaves are expertly paired and bound with special threads before being stored in the warehouse. Regular temperature checks are crucial to ensure the quality of the leaves is consistently maintained.
Undergoing a natural fermentation process lasting 30 days, the tobacco leaves must not endure temperatures exceeding 35°C. High temperatures can darken the leaves, intensifying the flavor. Inadequate fermentation can lead to a harsh and bitter taste, while prolonged fermentation results in a milder cigar.
Hence, fermentation stands as one of the pivotal stages in cigar production. The typical tobacco core comprises three leaf types. The innermost leaf, harvested from the top, burns slowly and accentuates the flavor. The second leaf, from the middle of the plant, contributes to the cigar's taste. The outermost leaves, responsible for even combustion, are harvested from the lowest part of the plant.
Each rolled leaf is carefully stacked on wooden shelves, covered with palm leaves – a distinctive Cuban touch – for the second fermentation lasting 1 to 3 months, depending on the intended cigar type. During this phase, the leaves are misted with water to maintain optimal moisture. Finally, they are moved to a drying area to regain elasticity. Skilled craftsmen manually separate the leaves, trim the stems, and proceed to the rolling phase.
Understanding the intricacies reveals the hidden beauty and meticulous craftsmanship within a cigar.
In Cuba, a cigar roller is regarded as an artisan, requiring a minimum of 2 years of apprenticeship to master the techniques and understand the nuances of cigars before becoming a professional.
Labeling cigar makers as artisans is not an exaggeration, given that flavor blending depends on the rolling technique, burn rate, and distinctive aromas of various cigar types. This craftsmanship has birthed numerous prestigious and renowned cigar brands.
A touch of whisky enhances the unique flavor of your cigar, not to mention the flavor wizards in the world of cigar craftsmanship.
Cigars are associated with illustrious figures such as George Burns, President Fidel Castro, national hero Che Guevara, former British Prime Minister Winston Churchill, literary giant Mark Twain, and even Whoopi Goldberg, thanks to the timeless allure and beauty behind the veils of hand-rolled cigar smoke.
Smoking cigars differs from cigarettes; instead of inhaling smoke into the lungs, one sips the smoke and holds it within the mouth's palate before exhaling slowly, savoring the rich aroma, unique fragrance, and intense flavor.
Timen Swijtink, co-owner of the Saigon Cigar Club, once remarked: '(Cigars) are crafted for enjoyment, not merely a pastime. You can smoke them as you please – fast or slow, paired with water or whiskey – do whatever you desire.'
Indulging in cigars with black coffee – have you ever tried?
Cuban cigar enthusiasts in Saigon don't need to fly halfway around the world for a premium cigar experience. They simply ascend to the 25th floor of AB Tower (76A Le Lai, District 1). A luxurious space reserved for you by Sorae Sushi Sake & Lounge awaits.
On the 25th floor of AB Tower, within Sorae Sushi Sake & Lounge, lies a perfect fusion of authentic Japanese ambiance, Scottish whisky, and Cuban cigars.
The ambiance, service, and cigars here are all superb.
The Saigon Cigar Club is a haven storing hundreds of renowned cigar varieties.
What could be better than relishing a space with one of the most beautiful views in Saigon, accompanied by sophisticated melodies, enjoying exquisite cigars, and sipping on top-tier spirits.
Saigon Cigar Club at Sorae Sushi Sake & Lounge, 25th floor, AB Tower, 76A Le Lai, District 1
[Photo: The Saigon Cigar Club]
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