Asylum Cigars
Looking for the best Asylum cigars? This guide reviews the top picks, offering detailed insights on their flavors and strengths, including the unique appeal of boutique cigars, to help you make an informed choice.
Introduction to Asylum Cigars
Asylum Cigars is a brand that has been making waves in the cigar industry with its unique approach to cigar-making. Founded by Tom Lazuka and Christian Eiroa, Asylum Cigars is known for pushing the boundaries of traditional ring gauge sizes and creating cigars that are truly one-of-a-kind. With a focus on using high-quality Nicaraguan tobaccos, Asylum Cigars has established itself as a brand that is not afraid to take risks and challenge the status quo.
Tom Lazuka and Christian Eiroa, both seasoned veterans in the cigar world, have combined their expertise to craft cigars that stand out in both flavor and construction. Their commitment to quality and innovation has earned Asylum Cigars a loyal following among enthusiasts who appreciate bold, flavorful smokes. Whether you’re a seasoned smoker or new to the world of cigars, Asylum offers something unique for every palate.
Overview of Top Asylum Cigars
Here are the top Asylum cigars, each excelling in its category.
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Best All-Rounder: Asylum 13 Nicaragua
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Best for Balanced Flavors: Asylum 13 Authentic Corojo
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Best for Balanced Smoking Experience: Asylum 13 Connecticut
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Best for Flavor Complexity: Asylum 13 Ogre
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Best for Beginners: Insidious Connecticut by Asylum
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Best for Full-Bodied Flavor: Insidious Maduro by Asylum
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Best for Complex Flavors: Asylum Medulla Oblongata
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Best for Long Smoking Sessions: Asylum 13 Pandemonium
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Best for Rich Flavors: Asylum Nyctophilia
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Best Budget-Friendly Option: Asylum Schizo in Maduro and Natural
Each of these cigars is meticulously handcrafted to ensure the highest quality and smoking experience.
Asylum Cigar Lines
Asylum Cigars offers a range of cigar lines that cater to different tastes and preferences. Some of the most popular lines include:
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Asylum 13: This line is known for its bold flavors and large ring gauges. Made with premium Nicaraguan tobaccos, Asylum 13 cigars feature a dark, oily wrapper that delivers a rich and robust smoking experience. The flavor profile includes notes of earth, pepper, and espresso bean, making it a favorite among those who enjoy a full-bodied smoke.
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Asylum Insidious: Designed for the more adventurous smoker, the Asylum Insidious line focuses on complex flavors and a cool burn. These cigars offer a unique blend of sweet and spicy notes, with hints of cocoa and coffee that evolve throughout the smoking session. The Insidious line is perfect for those who appreciate a dynamic and engaging flavor profile.
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Asylum Schizo: For those looking to try Asylum Cigars without breaking the bank, the Asylum Schizo line is a more affordable option. Known for its smooth, gentle flavor profile, Schizo cigars are available in both Maduro and Natural wrappers. Despite their budget-friendly price, these cigars do not compromise on quality, offering a consistent burn and a satisfying smoke.
Best All-Rounder: Asylum 13 Nicaragua
Specifications:
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Medium-full to full strength
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Available in sizes: 7 x 38 Lancero, 5 x 50 Robusto, 6 x 52 Toro, 6 x 60 Toro Gordo, 7 x 70, 7 x 70 Box Pressed, 6 x 80, 8 x 80
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Rich, earthy flavors
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Balanced spice and citrus zest
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Suitable for a variety of smokers
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Large ring gauges may not appeal to everyone
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Medium-strength might be too robust for beginners
The Asylum 13 Nicaragua offers a versatile and rich smoking experience. As one of the premium cigars, it presents a robust blend of earthy notes and pepper, evolving to reveal hints of espresso and leather. Its medium-full to full strength caters to a wide range of smokers, and the various sizes, including rare big ring gauges, suit different preferences, showcasing the quality of Nicaraguan tobaccos.
The Asylum 13 Nicaragua boasts impeccable construction, ensuring an even burn and smooth draw. While its large ring gauges and medium strength might not suit all, those who enjoy a bold and evolving flavor profile will find it a must-try.
Best for Balanced Flavors: Asylum 13 Authentic Corojo
Specifications:
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Medium strength
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Available in sizes: 5 x 50 Robusto, 6 x 52 Toro, 6 x 60 Toro Gordo, 6 x 70, 7 x 70, 6 x 80, 8 x 80
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Complex flavor profile
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Smooth and creamy smoke
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Consistent burn
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Medium strength may be too mild for some
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Larger sizes might be overwhelming for new smokers
The Asylum 13 Authentic Corojo, a Nicaraguan puro, presents a balanced flavor profile. Initial toast and pepper notes evolve into coffee, fruit, sweetness, cocoa, and cedar, ending with a spicy kick—ideal for those who appreciate nuanced flavors derived from aged tobaccos.
Featuring a dark maduro wrapper, the Authentic Corojo’s construction is top-notch and smooth. Its creamy smoke enhances the experience. Though its medium strength might be mild for some, it offers a long and enjoyable session, perfect for those who enjoy complex yet balanced flavors.
Best for Balanced Smoking Experience: Asylum 13 Connecticut
Specifications:
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Mild to medium-bodied
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Available in sizes: 5 x 50 Robusto, 6 x 52 Toro, 6 x 60 Toro Gordo, 7 x 70 Large Cigars
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Mild to medium-bodied, suitable for various smokers
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Silky, golden Ecuadorian Connecticut wrapper
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Smooth draw and consistent burn
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May be too mild for full-bodied cigar enthusiasts
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Larger sizes might be overwhelming for beginners
Handcrafted at the El Aladino factory in Honduras, the Asylum 13 Connecticut offers a balanced smoking experience with a silky Ecuadorian Connecticut wrapper leaf and Honduran long-fillers. It provides a mild to medium-bodied smoke with hints of pepper and cream, making it a delightful option for full-bodied cigar fans.
Its impeccable construction ensures a consistent burn and smooth draw. While it might be too mild for robust flavor enthusiasts, it provides a heartier experience for those who prefer milder cigars, making it a versatile choice.
Best for Flavor Complexity: Asylum 13 Ogre
Specifications:
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Available in sizes: 5 x 50 Robusto, 6 x 52 Toro, 6 x 60 Toro Gordo, 7 x 70, 6 x 80, 8 x 80
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Unique dual-wrapper design
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Complex blend profile
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Consistent burn
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Larger sizes may not suit all smokers
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Medium strength might be too mild for some
The Asylum 13 Ogre’s unique dual-wrapper design adds complexity to its flavor profile. Initial flavor notes of earth and pepper evolve into cedar and cream, providing a fascinating blend of flavors throughout the smoking session.
The Asylum 13 Ogre’s impressive construction ensures an even burn and smooth draw. The dual-wrapper enhances both visual appeal and flavor complexity, making it a favorite for those who enjoy a multifaceted smoke.
However, the larger sizes might be overwhelming for some, and the medium strength may not satisfy those looking for a more robust cigar. Nevertheless, for those seeking a complex and engaging smoke, the Asylum 13 Ogre is a fantastic choice.
Best for Beginners: Insidious Connecticut by Asylum
Specifications:
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Medium strength
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Available in sizes: 6 x 44 Corona, 7 x 48 Churchill, 5 x 50 Robusto, 6 x 52 Toro, 7 x 64 Super Toro
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Sweet, nutty, and toasty flavor profile
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Effortless draw
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Accessible for beginners
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Medium strength might surprise some beginners
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Sweet tip may not appeal to all
The Insidious Connecticut by Asylum is ideal for beginners. With a sweet tip and medium strength, it offers a blend of earthy base flavors, maple, and chocolate, creating a sweet, nutty, and toasty profile. Its effortless draw enhances the beginner’s experience.
The Insidious Connecticut’s excellent construction ensures a smooth draw and consistent burn. While its medium strength might surprise novices, the sweet tip and flavor profile make it a welcoming entry into cigars for beginners.
Best for Full-Bodied Flavor: Insidious Maduro by Asylum
Specifications:
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Available in sizes: 7 x 48 Corona, 5 x 50 Robusto, 6 x 52 Toro, 7 x 64 Super Toro
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Robust flavor profile
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Notes of cream, spice, and cocoa
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Consistent burn
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Full-bodied flavor may not suit all smokers
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Sweet cap might not appeal to everyone
Building on the success of the Connecticut-shade Insidious line, the Insidious Maduro by Asylum offers full-bodied flavor. With a maduro wrapper and Honduran long-fillers, it boasts notes of cream, spice, and cocoa, providing a robust smoking experience with a razor-sharp burn and consistent draw.
The Insidious Maduro’s everyday price point makes it accessible for regular smokers. While its full-bodied flavor and sweet cap might not suit everyone, it’s an excellent choice for adding robustness to your smoking rotation without breaking the bank.
Best for Complex Flavors: Asylum Medulla Oblongata
Specifications:
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Near full strength
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Well-constructed with a solid ash and consistent burn
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Complex flavor profile
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Consistent burn
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Solid construction
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Near full strength may be too intense for some
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Complex flavors might not suit all palates
Known for its complex flavor profile, the Asylum Medulla Oblongata features notes of pepper, sweet lime zest, earth, toasted bread, berry sweetness, coffee, and dark chocolate, offering a rich and multi-layered smoking experience that evolves over time.
The Medulla Oblongata’s impeccable construction ensures a solid ash and consistent burn. Its near-full strength might be too intense for some, but its complex flavors make it a favorite for those who appreciate a rich, dynamic smoke.
Best for Long Smoking Sessions: Asylum 13 Pandemonium
Specifications:
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Available in sizes: 8.5 x 52, 8.5 x 60, 8.5 x 70
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Ecuadorian Sumatra wrapper
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Nicaraguan binder and filler
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Long smoking duration
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Rich and complex flavor profile
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Consistent burn
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Size may be intimidating for some
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Requires a significant time commitment
The Asylum 13 Pandemonium is perfect for long, leisurely smoking sessions, with sizes ranging from 8.5 x 52 to 8.5 x 70 and a smoking duration of about 2.5 hours. The blend of Nicaraguan binder and filler, along with an Ecuadorian Sumatra wrapper, provides a rich flavor profile of spicy, woody, leathery, and earthy notes.
With its large size and extended smoking duration, the Asylum 13 Pandemonium is ideal for dedicated smokers seeking a prolonged experience. Its excellent construction ensures a consistent burn throughout. For those with the time and passion for a long, intricate smoke, this cigar is a worthy investment.
Best for Rich Flavors: Asylum Nyctophilia
Specifications:
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Mexican San Andrés (Maduro) wrapper
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Full strength
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Rich and creamy flavor profile
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Cool burn with thick smoke
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Consistent construction
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Full strength may be too intense for beginners
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Dark flavors might not appeal to all
Standing out for its rich and creamy flavor profile, the Asylum Nyctophilia features a Mexican San Andrés Maduro wrapper. It offers a blend of oats, wheat, earth, bittersweet chocolate, salty notes, and pepper, with a sweet finish, creating a robust and satisfying experience.
The Asylum Nyctophilia’s cool burn and thick smoke enhance its rich flavors. Its consistent construction ensures a pleasant session from start to finish. While full strength might be intense for some, those who enjoy rich, dark flavors will find it immensely satisfying.
Best Budget-Friendly Option: Asylum Schizo in Maduro and Natural
Specifications:
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Available in sizes: 5 x 50 Robusto, 6 x 50 Toro, 6 x 60 Toro Gordo, 7 x 52, 7 x 70
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Affordable price
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Generous amount of tobacco
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Consistent burn
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Flavor profile might be less complex
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Construction may vary
The Asylum Schizo is a budget-friendly option that doesn’t compromise on quality. Known for being one of the most affordable cigars, it provides substantial tobacco for its price, making it a cost-effective choice for regular enjoyment. Available in both Maduro and Natural wrappers, it caters to various preferences.
The Schizo provides a consistent burn and a decent flavor profile, though it may not be as complex as higher-end options. While construction can vary, it generally delivers a satisfying experience, especially for its price. For a reliable, everyday cigar that’s easy on the wallet, the Asylum Schizo is a solid choice.
Asylum Cigar Prices and Availability
Asylum Cigars are available for purchase online and in select cigar shops. Prices vary depending on the line and size of the cigar, but here are some general price ranges to expect:
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Asylum 13: $10-$20 per cigar
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Asylum Insidious: $12-$25 per cigar
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Asylum Schizo: $4-$8 per cigar
Asylum Cigars are widely available online, and can be purchased through various retailers such as 2 Guys Cigars. They are also available in select cigar shops and lounges, making it easy for enthusiasts to find and enjoy these exceptional smokes. Whether you’re looking for a premium cigar for a special occasion or an everyday smoke that offers great value, Asylum Cigars has something to suit your needs.
How to Choose the Right Asylum Cigar for You
Choosing the right Asylum cigar requires knowing your flavor preferences and experience level. Cigar flavor comes from quality tobacco and is influenced by cultivation, curing, fermentation, blending, and aging. The tobacco blend plays a crucial role in determining the cigar's flavor profile. Common flavors include earth, coffee, pepper, spice, cocoa, licorice, and leather. Match cigars to occasions: lighter cigars for quick smokes, complex ones for leisurely enjoyment.
Construction quality is crucial as it affects burn consistency and overall smoking experience. Buying cigars in bulk can lower prices per cigar, making it cost-effective for enthusiasts.
Advice from knowledgeable tobacconists can offer personalized recommendations. Understanding your preferences and making informed choices will help you find the ideal Asylum cigar.
Understanding Cigar Strength and Flavor Profiles
Cigar strength, indicating nicotine content, categorizes cigars into:
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Mild, often recommended for beginners, offering a more enjoyable introduction
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Medium, providing a balanced experience for experienced smokers
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Strong, reflecting higher nicotine content, significantly influencing the smoking experience
Understanding the body and strength of a cigar is important; a cigar can have strong flavor but be mild in nicotine strength. The body refers to the texture and weight of the smoke, with cigars exhibiting varying characteristics based on their body.
The source of tobacco leaves on the plant can determine a cigar’s strength and flavor profile. Understanding these aspects helps in better appreciating and selecting cigars that match your preferences.
Construction Quality and Burn Consistency
Construction quality and burn consistency are essential for a pleasant smoking experience. Asylum emphasizes quality, ensuring high hygiene standards in their facilities, certified by Bayer Cropscience. Primarily produced in Esteli, Nicaragua, with some blends crafted in Honduras, Asylum cigars should have a smooth wrapper and firm feel; inspect for soft spots or lumps before buying.
A well-constructed cigar burns evenly, indicating quality craftsmanship. Under-filled cigars burn too quickly and can produce harsh smoke due to air pockets, while overfilled cigars can result in a difficult draw.
The burn performance of Asylum cigars, such as the Corojo Lobotomy Toro and Insidious, has been impressive, with no burn issues and a firm grey ash. Attention to construction quality can significantly enhance your smoking experience.
Value for Money: Finding the Best Deals
Finding the best deals on Asylum cigars involves considering various factors like price, quality, and availability. The Asylum Schizo is known as a great budget-friendly option for those looking for quality cigars at an affordable price. The Asylum Insidious is also perceived as irresistible for the quality relative to its pricing. Purchasing cigars in bulk often leads to lower prices per cigar, making it a cost-effective option for enthusiasts.
Shopping during major holidays or making bulk purchases can yield significant discounts on premium cigars due to retailer promotions. Utilizing price comparison websites enables consumers to swiftly identify the best deals from various retailers.
Clearance sections of online cigar shops often feature overstocked or discontinued products at greatly reduced prices. By being strategic in your purchases, you can find excellent deals and get the most value for your money.
Final Tips for Selecting Your Perfect Cigar
Selecting the perfect cigar involves understanding your flavor preferences and exploring different options. Try different cigars to discover what resonates with your palate. Different regions produce cigars with unique flavor profiles, so researching the origin can enhance your selection. Aging can improve a cigar’s quality, leading to more complex flavors, but not all cigars age equally well.
Budgeting is important; prices vary widely, and while higher prices often correlate with quality, it’s not a strict rule. Trusting your own instincts and preferences is key; keeping a journal of your cigar experiences can help refine your taste.
By considering these tips and trusting your palate, you can select the perfect cigar that meets your expectations and enhances your smoking experience. Keeping a cigar journal can also help you track your preferences and make more informed choices.
Summary
Navigating the world of Asylum cigars reveals a diverse range of options, each with its unique flavor profile and smoking experience. From the versatile Asylum 13 Nicaragua to the budget-friendly Asylum Schizo, there’s a cigar for every palate and occasion. Understanding your preferences and considering factors like strength, flavor, and construction quality can help you make informed choices. With the insights and tips provided in this guide, you’re well-equipped to explore and enjoy the rich offerings of Asylum cigars. Happy smoking!