Monday, November 29 1999
Q. I have been smoking cigars now for 13 years. I smoke one cigar per day, and have since the beginning. It's usually a
toro size, but sometimes it's something smaller. It seems I have developed what I call "cigar mouth." On the upper inside of my mouth it is starting to feel as though I'm wrinkling right around where I place the cigar to
draw on it. What feels like creases are starting to feel deeper. I would like to draw on your experience as a long time cigar smoker and find out if this is natural as one continues to enjoy cigars or if there is cause for concern here?
- Kirk in Lincoln, NE
A. As far as the physiological effects of your palate are concerned, since I’m not a doctor, I can’t speak to that. Moreover, I haven't noticed any change in my palate as a result of smoking so many cigars over the years. If you’re that concerned, no doubt the best cource of action would be to see a physician.
What I can tell you is something most experienced cigar smokers tend to agree upon with regard to the palate in general, which is, you tend to develop a taste for more full-flavored cigars over time. There are some cigars I smoked years ago that were too strong for me at the time, but which I now consider more medium-bodied, or mild in some cases.
If anyone reading this question feels qualified to comment on Kirk's condition, please send me an email, and I'll post a follow-up.
