The search for balance between quality and frugality can be quite difficult in these trying and troubled times. As cigar enthusiasts we have the responsibility (and fortune) of enjoying high quality smokes, but at what point can you draw the line to separate your “top shelf” stock from your everyday sticks. In an imaginary perfect world I would smoke a couple Anejo Reserva No. 55’s a day, and what a world that would be. Unfortunately though cigars like that are usually reserved for special occasions and really bad days at the office. Even your “everyday” premium cigars can help drain your money bags quicker than you realize.

  With this mindset I have come up with an interesting quest suited for the Blog Of The Leaf. The search for a high quality “dog walker”. Now I know the term dog walker already has some negative connotations in the cigar world, but I’m taking a more literal viewpoint with this. I want a low priced—high quality cigar to smoke while walking my dog at night. Below are the guidelines that I’ll be using in this search.

1. The cigar has to be considered a fine cigar/quality cigar. Any asshole can buy a three-pack of Philly Blunts or Lysol flavored Dutch Masters, but we’re not animals so we’re not going to travel that path.
2. The first half of the cigar should be the dominant half. At any point this cigar can fall in a puddle, down a sewer drain or into a pile of my dog’s fresh work. It shouldn’t be a catastrophe if the smoke is cut short.
3. In constrast, the second half shouldn’t be painful or pointless. I should be able continue the cigar to completion, with or without a glass of scotch.
4. The price should be south of the $5 line.

  This is my mission for the next couple months or until the new england nights get too cold. Stay tuned, I expect to have the first list of contenders ready and hopefully in-hand for next week.

Edit: The Contenders have been announced.