If you’re just dipping your toe into the world of cigars, you’ve likely asked the question: “what cigar should I try first?” Whilst a lot depends on your personal preference, we’ve got some great tips and recommendations for those looking to smoke their very first cigar. After all, you don’t want to smoke the wrong cigar as your first and be put off! Whilst it might be tempting to grab an iconic Churchill, there are plenty of milder options that are perfect for beginners.
The world of cigars doesn’t have to be daunting, in this blog we’ll take you through what makes the perfect cigar for beginners and some of our personal favourites.
What makes a good beginner cigar?
As a beginner, it’s always best to start off with a mild cigar, that way, you can determine what you enjoy and slowly work up to fuller-bodied cigars. Mild doesn’t mean bland or boring – whilst the strength may be less, the flavour is still there, so you can decide which flavours you enjoy most. Essentially, mild cigars have a lower nicotine content than strong cigars, giving you a smoother smoking experience.
Another thing to consider is a cigar’s ring gauge. The ring gauge determines the diameter of a cigar and can greatly impact the flavour and experience. Thinner ring gauges tend to burn hotter and faster, meaning the flavour can be more concentrated. Alternatively, thicker ring gauges burn cooler and slower, often with a milder flavour and smoother smoke, which can be preferable for beginners.
The shape and size of a cigar will also impact the smoking experience. Traditionally, cigars have a parejos shape, which burns evenly, perfect for beginners. It’s important to note that the size of a cigar doesn’t always represent strength. Often, larger cigars can feel milder as they smoke cooler.
So, let’s explore our top five cigars for beginners that’ll offer a great introduction to the world of cigars:
Romeo y Julieta Mille Fleur Petit Coronas Cigar
Romeo y Julieta is a well-loved and highly respected cigar brand, producing some of the best smokes for cigar fans. The term “mille fleur” translates to “thousand flowers”, which wonderfully describes the floral bouquet of this cigar. This petit coronas provides a consistent smoke, with a hint of sweetness and spice. Offering a mellow vanilla flavour in the first half of the smoke, this light and cedary cigar is perfect for beginners.
Montecristo Media Corona
The Montecristo Media Corona is truly a treat for beginners and seasoned cigar smokers alike. Launched at Hunters & Frankau’s recent 225th anniversary party, this cigar represents a celebration. This half-corona offers a consistent shorter smoke, ideal for beginners who are testing the waters. The iconic bittersweet flavour of Montecristo cigars is what makes them so popular – with the Montecristo Media Corona boasting coffee, cocoa, orange, cinnamon and vanilla notes – it’s quite the tasty smoke that beginners will love.
Hoyo De Monterrey Petit Robustos
An exceptional smoke for beginners, the Hoyo De Monterrey Petit Robusto produces mild and earthy flavours that gradually evolve throughout the 40-minute smoke. The spicy, rich and sweet aromas develop delicately, offering great flavour and complexity in a beginner-friendly accessible way. This small corona has a consistent draw with such high quality that both newbies and cigar aficionados love it.
La Aurora Principes Corona Caribbean
For those beginners who don’t want to fully commit to the more expensive handmade cigars, the La Aurora Principes Corona Caribbean is a fantastic alternative. Made in the Tabacalera La Aurora factory, the oldest and most established Cigar factory in the Dominican Republic, these La Aurora Principes don’t compromise on quality. This mild smoke has a wonderful flavour being top-dressed with rum, adding to the smooth quality of the cigar. The perfect entry-level option.
Oliva Serie O Toro Tubos
For slightly more adventurous beginners, the Oliva Serie O slowly progresses in strength – starting with cherry, chocolate and cedar notes before developing a layer of pepper and spice the longer you smoke. This level of complexity and strength builds slowly, rewarding those who pace themselves and fully enjoy the experience. The Oliva Serie O is a classic cigar that many beginners fall in love with.
Entering the world of cigars is exciting, with so many different flavours and smokes to enjoy. Easing yourself in with our top five cigars for beginners will guarantee that you enjoy the experience. You’ll develop an appreciation for high-quality cigars before gradually moving on to those bigger, bolder flavours.
