In the second installment of Katsuhiko Shimaji's aphorisms, I will share an incident that took place within the salon.

The store opened at 2 PM that day.

*Please note that Ms. Shimaji's visit schedule varies from week to week.

The salon was very lively with people enjoying pleasant conversations with Ms. Shimaji.

One female customer said:

"Well, I've got a cigarette in my hand, so I'll be taking my leave now."

Since smoking is not allowed inside Salon de Shimaji, the customer was about to leave.

Now, a word from Mr. Shimaji.

"Shall I teach you how to smoke a cigar? You can smoke any cigar sold at Salon de Shimaji in this bar, so please give it a try."

The female customer seemed delighted to be offered the opportunity to learn.

Shimaji-san chose a cigarillo from among the cigars.

These are machine-rolled cigars. Unlike hand-rolled cigars, they don't require humidification and are relatively inexpensive, so I often recommended cigarillos to women trying cigars for the first time.

Then I lit the cigarillo for him.

"Don't inhale it into your lungs; just roll the smoke around in your mouth, puffing slowly."
If you like single malt whiskey, you should also like cigars."

The woman, who was trying a cigar for the first time, was surprised by the different aroma compared to cigarettes and was delighted that it paired well with the single malt whiskey.

This week's quote
The bar counter is a study desk for life.

This week's recommended drink: Ardbeg on the rocks

Incidentally, the image at the beginning is a collection of cigar labels displayed inside Salon de Shimaji.
It's extremely rare and apparently no longer available. Please be sure to take a look when you visit the store.

Next time, we'll share a story from one of Salon de Shimaji's regular customers.

*Drinking alcohol and smoking are prohibited by law for those under 20 years of age.
*Please refrain from drinking alcohol or participating in tastings if you are driving a vehicle (including motorcycles and cars) or are underage.