Cigars are timeless indulgences that people have enjoyed for centuries. With so many different cigars to choose from, it can be overwhelming for beginners to choose the right one or even the wrong one :). Some cigars are bold and have complex flavors, others are milder and more smooth, making them a good choice new cigar smokers.
There are a few key factors to consider when choosing a cigar for a beginner. One of the most important is the strength of the cigar. Mild cigars are generally a good choice for beginners, as they are less likely to cause nausea. Additionally, smooth and creamy cigars are typically more enjoyable for new smokers.
In this article, we will explore some of the top-rated, smooth, and mild cigar types that are ideal for beginners. Whether you want to enjoy a relaxing smoke after a long day or want to try something new, these cigars will surely provide a satisfying and enjoyable experience.
Understanding Cigars
Before diving into the world of cigars, it’s essential to understand what they are, the types available, and the various sizes and shapes they come in.
What are cigars?
Cigars are tightly rolled bundles of tobacco leaves designed to be smoked. They are typically wrapped in a tobacco leaf and come in various shapes, sizes, and strengths. Cigars are often associated with luxury and relaxation and are enjoyed by people worldwide.
Cigar Types
There are several different cigars, each with a unique flavor profile and strength. Some of the most common types include:
- Mild cigars are an excellent choice for beginners, as they are typically smooth and easy to smoke. Some popular brands include Romeo Y Julieta Reserva Real Corona and Ashton Classic.
- Medium-bodied cigars have a bit more flavor and strength than mild cigars but are still a good choice for beginners. Some popular choices are Oliva Cain and Henry Clay War Hawk.
- Full-bodied cigars are the strongest and most flavorful of the bunch. They are typically recommended for experienced smokers. Some popular ones include Southern Draw Jacob’s Ladder and Crowned Heads La Coalicion.
Cigar Sizes
Cigars come in various sizes, ranging from small cigarillos to large Churchills. Some common sizes include:
| Size | Length (inches) | Ring Gauge |
|---|---|---|
| Petit Corona | 4.5 | 40-42 |
| Robusto | 5 | 50 |
| Toro | 6 | 50-52 |
| Churchill | 7 | 47-50 |
Cigar Shapes
Cigars come in various shapes, each with its unique smoking experience. Some common shapes include:
- Parejo is the most common cigar shape, with a straight body and round cap. Examples include Robusto and Churchill.
- Torpedo has a pointed head and a bulge in the middle. It offers a unique smoking experience, with different flavors at different points in the cigar.
- Figurado: This is a catch-all term for any cigar, not a Parejo or Torpedo. Examples include the Pyramid and Belicoso.
Choosing the Right Cigar
Factors to Consider
Choosing the right cigar can be overwhelming, especially for beginners. There are several factors to consider. Here are some factors:
- Strength: Beginners should start with mild cigars and gradually move to stronger ones. Strong cigars can be overwhelming and may cause discomfort to new smokers.
- Flavor: Cigars come in different flavors, such as earthy, spicy, and sweet. It is essential to choose a flavor that suits your taste buds.
- Size: Cigars come in different sizes, including Churchill, Corona, and Robusto. The size affects the smoking experience, and choosing a size that suits your preference is essential.
- Wrapper: The wrapper affects the flavor and strength of the cigar. Cigars are rolled in different wrappers such as Connecticut, Maduro, and Habano. Each wrapper has a different taste and strength.
Top-rated Cigars for Beginners
Here are some top-rated cigars for beginners:
| Brand | Strength | Flavor |
|---|---|---|
| Romeo Y Julieta 1875 | Mild | Earthy |
| Arturo Fuente Double Chateau Fuente Natural | Mild to Medium | Nutty |
| Perdomo 10th Anniversary Champagne | Mild | Creamy |
Smooth Cigars for Beginners
Smooth cigars are ideal for beginners who want a milder smoking experience. Here are some smooth cigars for beginners:
Ashton Classic: This cigar has a mild taste and is perfect for beginners. It has a Connecticut wrapper and a creamy flavor.
Macanudo Cafe: This cigar has a mild taste and a smooth finish. It has a Connecticut wrapper and a nutty flavor.
Davidoff Millennium Blend: This cigar has a mild to medium taste and a creamy finish. It has an Ecuadorian wrapper and a woody flavor.
Mild Cigars for Beginners
Mild cigars are ideal for beginners who want a smooth smoking experience. Here are some mild cigars for beginners:
Romeo Y Julieta Reserva Real Corona: This cigar has a mild taste and is perfect for beginners. It has a Connecticut wrapper and a creamy flavor.
Montecristo White Series: This cigar has a mild to medium taste and a smooth finish. It has a Connecticut wrapper and a nutty flavor.
Oliva Connecticut Reserve: This cigar has a mild to medium taste and a creamy finish. It has a Connecticut wrapper and a woody flavor.
How to Smoke a Cigar
Smoking a cigar is a unique experience that requires patience, technique, and a bit of knowledge. Here are the steps to follow when smoking a cigar:
Preparing the Cigar
Before smoking a cigar, inspect it for any flaws. A good cigar should be firm and free of cracks or holes. To prepare the cigar for smoking, follow these steps:
- Use a cigar cutter to cut off the cap of the cigar, leaving about 1/8 inch of the cap intact. Keeping part of the cap intact helps hold the cigar together (prevent the wrapper from unraveling).
- Lightly roll the cigar between your fingers to loosen the tobacco and improve the draw.
Lighting the Cigar
Lighting a cigar is a delicate process that requires patience and care. Follow these steps to light your cigar:
- Hold the cigar at a 45-degree angle and light the foot of the cigar with a butane lighter or a wooden match. Don’t use a zippo lighter.
- Rotate the cigar while lighting to ensure an even burn.
- Avoid touching the flame directly to the cigar, which can cause the tobacco to burn unevenly.
- Once the foot of the cigar is lit, take a few puffs to ensure an even burn or blow on the foot. You want to see a red circle light up around the foot when you blow.
Smoking the Cigar
Smoking a cigar is a slow and relaxing process that could take an hour or more. Here are some tips to get the most out of your cigar:
- Hold the cigar between your index finger and thumb, with your other fingers supporting the cigar from below.
- Take slow, steady puffs, allowing the smoke to linger in your mouth before exhaling.
- Do not inhale the smoke, as this can cause dizziness and nausea.
- Rotate the cigar every few puffs to ensure an even burn.
- When you are finished smoking, allow the cigar to go out independently rather than extinguishing it.
- Caring for Your Cigars
Caring for your cigars is important to stay fresh and flavorful. Follow these tips to keep your cigars in top condition:
- Store your cigars in a humidor to maintain a constant temperature and humidity.
- Keep your humidor away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
- Rotate your cigars every few weeks to ensure an even distribution of moisture.
- Do not store your cigars with other tobacco products, which can affect their flavor.
Conclusion
Choosing the right cigar can be a daunting task, especially for beginners. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to pick the right one. However, by considering the factors discussed in this article, such as flavor, strength, and size, beginners can select a cigar that suits their preferences.
Some of the best cigar types for beginners include the Arturo Fuente Double Chateau Fuente Natural, Ashton Classic, Romeo Y Julieta Reserva Real Corona, and Padron 2000 Natural. These cigars are known for their mild to medium strength, smooth flavor, and affordable price points.
It’s important to note that while these cigars are great for beginners, everyone’s taste is different. It’s recommended to try a variety of cigars to find the perfect one for you. Additionally, beginners should take their time smoking a cigar, savoring the flavors, and enjoying the experience.
Overall, smoking a cigar can be a relaxing and enjoyable pastime; with the right cigar, even beginners can appreciate the art of cigar smoking. By selecting a mild to a medium-strength cigar with a smooth flavor, beginners can start their cigar journey off on the right foot.
