10 Best Cigars for Beginners: What Should You Buy?
Stepping into the world of cigars can be an exciting yet overwhelming journey, especially for beginners. With countless brands, flavors, and sizes to choose from, finding the right cigar can feel like a daunting task. But don’t worry—this guide is here to help! Whether you're seeking mild flavors, shorter smoking sessions, or an introduction to the art of cigar smoking, we’ve rounded up the 10 best cigars perfect for beginners. Alongside this list, you’ll find tips on choosing accessories, learning proper smoking techniques, and making your first cigar experience truly enjoyable.
Why Choose Beginner-Friendly Cigars?
Not all cigars are created equal, and for a novice, choosing the right one is crucial. Beginner-friendly cigars are designed to enhance the smoking experience without overwhelming the senses. Factors like flavor, strength, and size play a pivotal role in ensuring that first-timers enjoy their cigar rather than struggle with it. Here’s what makes a cigar beginner-friendly:
Milder Flavors
Cigars with subtle, creamy, or slightly sweet flavors are ideal for acclimating to the taste and aroma. New smokers often prefer mild, creamy, or slightly sweet flavors. These profiles are less likely to overwhelm the palate and provide a smooth introduction to the world of cigars.
Lower Strength
Cigars with low nicotine content or mild strength are perfect for avoiding a harsh experience. Too much nicotine can be overpowering, especially for someone unaccustomed to it.
Manageable Sizes
Smaller cigars provide a shorter smoking session, making them less intimidating for newcomers.Smaller sizes like Robusto or Petit Corona are excellent for beginners. They allow for a shorter smoking session (around 20–45 minutes) without committing to an extended time investment.
Top 10 Best Cigars for Beginners
Finding the perfect cigar for your first experience doesn’t have to be complicated. The following list highlights cigars chosen for their mild flavors, manageable sizes, and beginner-friendly strength levels. These cigars are trusted by novices and seasoned smokers alike, providing an approachable and enjoyable introduction to the world of cigars.
1. Macanudo Cafe Hyde Park
- Flavor Profile: Mild, nutty, and slightly sweet.
- This classic choice offers a smooth smoking experience, perfect for those seeking a mellow start.
2. Arturo Fuente Hemingway Short Story
- Flavor Profile: Mild to medium, with hints of cedar and leather.
- Known for its unique Perfecto shape, this cigar delivers consistent flavor in short, manageable size.
3. Ashton Classic
- Flavor Profile: Creamy, with cedar and almond notes.
- A hallmark of smoothness, the Ashton Classic is a favorite among beginners for its easy draw and balanced taste.
4. Perdomo Champagne 10th Anniversary Champagne
- Flavor Profile: Creamy with hints of vanilla and cedar.
- This cigar offers a gentle complexity that’s perfect for first-timers, combining a smooth draw with mild strength.
5. Romeo y Julieta Reserva Real
- Flavor Profile: Sweet cream with notes of leather.
- A balanced and reliable option for beginners, offering a taste of slightly more complex flavors without overwhelming the palate.
6. Arturo Fuente 858 Natural
- Flavor Profile: Mild to medium, with nutty and earthy undertones.
- This iconic cigar is loved for its consistent flavor and smooth smoking experience, ideal for beginners who want to explore something slightly richer.
7. Arturo Fuente Hemingway Signature Sungrown
- Flavor Profile: Smooth, with hints of spice and cedar.
- Known for its craftsmanship and distinctive Sungrown wrapper, this cigar offers an approachable medium-bodied flavor.
8. E.P. Carrillo New Wave Connecticut
- Flavor Profile: Mild and creamy with hints of almond and toast.
- A beautifully balanced cigar that’s easy to smoke and perfect for those dipping their toes into the world of Connecticut wrappers.
9. Plasencia Reserva Original
- Flavor Profile: Organic, with nutty and creamy notes.
- Made with 100% organic tobacco, this cigar delivers a pure and natural flavor, making it a great choice for those who appreciate authenticity.
10. La Flor Dominicana Suave
- Flavor Profile: Mild, creamy, with floral notes.
- A beautifully smooth option that’s ideal for beginners seeking an easy introduction to Dominican cigars.
Beginner-Friendly Accessories to Enhance Your Experience
Enjoying cigars isn’t just about choosing the right one—it’s also about having the right tools. Beginner-friendly accessories can make your smoking session smoother and more enjoyable. Here are the essentials every novice should consider:
Cutters
A sharp, easy-to-use guillotine cutter is ideal for creating a clean, precise cut. Choose a beginner-friendly guillotine cutter or a V-cutter for clean, precise cuts. Avoid scissors or improvised tools that can damage the cigar cap.
Lighters
Torch lighters are preferred for even lighting, but soft flame lighters work well for smaller cigars. Invest in a reliable torch lighter for even lighting, or use a soft flame for smaller cigars. Avoid using matches or standard lighters, which can affect flavor.
Humidors
Proper storage is essential to keep your cigars fresh and flavorful. Start with a small humidor to store your cigars at optimal humidity (around 70%). Look for one with a built-in hygrometer for easy monitoring.
Ashtrays
A good ashtray is more than just a place to collect ash—it’s a functional and stylish addition to your setup. Choose an ashtray with grooves designed for cigars, ensuring stability during your smoking session. Durable materials like glass or ceramic are ideal for long-term use.
How to Smoke a Cigar Like a Pro
Mastering the basics of smoking a cigar is essential for a good experience. Follow these simple dos and don’ts to enjoy your first cigar like a seasoned aficionado.
Dos for First-Time Smokers
1. Cut Carefully
Use a sharp cutter to make a clean cut at the cigar’s cap. Avoid cutting too much, as it can cause the cigar to unravel.
2. Toast the Foot
Before lighting, gently toast the foot of the cigar to warm it evenly. This ensures a consistent burn.
3. Draw Gently
Take slow, steady puffs to savor the flavor. Avoid inhaling the smoke into your lungs—let it rest in your mouth to appreciate the taste.
Don’ts for First-Time Smokers
4. Don’t Rush
Cigar smoking is meant to be relaxing. Puff too quickly, and you risk overheating the cigar, which can alter the flavor.
5. Don’t Tap the Ash
Unlike cigarettes, cigar ash naturally holds longer. Let it fall naturally to avoid disrupting the burn.
How long should my first cigar session last?
As a beginner, it’s best to keep your first cigar session manageable. The ideal duration for a beginner-friendly cigar is around 20 to 45 minutes, depending on its size and how you pace yourself.
Final Thoughts: Starting Your Cigar Journey
Beginning your cigar journey can be both exciting and rewarding, especially with the right guidance. By choosing beginner-friendly cigars like the ones on this list, you’ll set yourself up for a positive and enjoyable experience. Don’t forget the importance of proper accessories and techniques to enhance your smoking sessions.
If you’re ready to explore these cigars or browse additional beginner-friendly options, visit TRP Cigars. TRP Cigars offers a curated selection of premium cigars, accessories, and rare finds tailored to both beginners and seasoned smokers. Their expert recommendations and top-quality products ensure a seamless introduction to the world of cigars.
Above all, remember that cigar smoking is an art meant to be savored. Take your time exploring different brands, flavors, and sizes to discover what suits your palate. With patience and curiosity, you’ll find that cigars offer not just a hobby, but a rich and fulfilling tradition to enjoy.
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