A cigar holder assembly includes a filter holder that includes: a first filter holder piece having a first end to connect to a smoking machine and a second end, and a second filter holder piece having a first end and a second end, a first opening extending axially into the first end and a second opening extending axially into the second end, and the second end of the first filter holder piece and the first end of the second filter holder piece fit together. The assembly includes a cigar holder having a first end and a second end to receive a cigar, and the second end of the second filter holder piece and the first end of the cigar holder fit together; and a seal has an opening that extends through its entire thickness, the seal configured to fit in the opening in the first end of the cigar holder.