History & craftsmanship
Explore the origins of cigar culture and its development across different countries. Discover tobacco cultivation, fermentation, ageing, blending and construction, and the skill behind a handmade cigar.
Education
Understanding elevates
the experience.
Knowledge for curious adult enthusiasts. Practical training for professionals in cigar service and consultation.
Etiquette & respectful service
Learn about preparation, cutting, lighting, tasting pace, ash management and appropriate conduct in lounges and private or professional settings. Consideration for others, respect for non-smokers and attention to venue policies are central to cigar etiquette.
Origins & national traditions
Explore the cigar-making traditions of Cuba, the Dominican Republic, Nicaragua, Honduras and other producing countries. Understand how growing conditions, tobacco varieties, blending and production choices contribute to character, without assuming that origin alone determines taste or quality.
We also examine cigar culture within Armenian hospitality and the presentation of Armenian brandy, coffee and cuisine.
Product knowledge & care
Topics include cigar formats, wrapper and filler tobaccos, flavour vocabulary, strength and body, storage, humidification and product condition. The emphasis is on accurate understanding and clear communication.
Cigar pairing
A conversation
between flavours.
Pairing explores how a cigar’s character interacts with a drink or culinary accompaniment. Guided sessions consider intensity, aroma, texture and finish, using complementary or contrasting profiles as starting points.
Armenian brandy and coffee offer a local perspective; tea, water and other non-alcoholic choices belong in the conversation too. Individual preference matters more than rigid rules. There is no single pairing for every cigar or every guest.
Pairing education encourages thoughtful description and informed choices, never increased consumption.
Professional development
Training with Association-issued certificates
The Armenian Cigar Association organises training for professional cigar sommeliers and cigar consultants.
Cigar sommelier
For lounge, hotel, restaurant and private hospitality professionals. Focus areas include selection, presentation, tasting vocabulary, pairing principles, humidor care and attentive guest service.
Cigar consultant
For cigar retail, brand representation and advisory roles. Focus areas include product knowledge, understanding customer requirements, selection guidance, storage advice and professional communication.
Certificate pathway
Participants receive an Armenian Cigar Association certificate upon successful completion of the relevant programme requirements. Curriculum, duration, format and completion criteria are provided with each course announcement.
Certificates are issued by the Armenian Cigar Association. No external accreditation or international recognition is implied.
Enquire about training