Learn and Discover: Top 9 Must-Try Cigars for Beginners

Choosing your first cigar should be an informed decision influenced by mildness, flavor, and size. Beginners are typically advised to start with milder cigars, as they provide a gentler introduction to the flavors and sensations of smoking without being overpowering. Sweet or flavored cigars can also be appealing for those not yet accustomed to the robustness of traditional cigars.

Furthermore, the size of the cigar also plays an important role, especially for those new to the experience. Larger cigars typically last longer and produce more smoke, which might be overwhelming for a beginner. Conversely, smaller cigars offer a shorter smoking session, making them a manageable introduction to the world of cigars. 

When venturing into your first purchase, it's beneficial to visit a reputable tobacconist where you can receive personalized advice and have the opportunity to ask questions. Many tobacconists are knowledgeable and can provide recommendations based on your taste preferences and the level of strength you’re comfortable with. This interaction not only helps in making an informed choice but also enriches your understanding of the diverse world of cigars.

1. Macanudo Café

This is one of the best-selling cigars globally and for good reason. It's renowned for its mild flavor and smooth smoke, making it a perfect starter cigar.

2. Monte Cristo No 4

One of the most famous and popular cigars worldwide, the Montecristo No. 4 is a medium-bodied Cuban cigar that serves as a benchmark for quality and craftsmanship. This petit corona offers a balanced and smooth experience with flavors of leather, cocoa, and a touch of spice. Its reputation and accessible flavor profile make it a safe and rewarding choice for beginners wanting to experience a classic Cuban cigar.

3. Arturo Fuente Hemingway Short Story

Perfect for those who don’t want to commit to a long smoke session, this cigar offers a unique shape and a sweet, mild flavor that appeals to new smokers.

4. Perdomo Champagne 10th Anniversary

The Perdomo Champagne 10th Anniversary is celebrated for its smooth, mild to medium-bodied profile, making it an excellent choice for those new to cigar smoking. This cigar features a blend of Nicaraguan fillers and a golden U.S. Connecticut shade wrapper that offers creamy, rich flavors with hints of vanilla and cedar. Its gentle complexity doesn’t overwhelm the palate, which is ideal for someone who is just starting to appreciate the nuances of premium cigars.

5. Kristoff 1885 Woodland

The Kristoff 1885 Woodland is a relatively newer offering that may appeal to beginners due to its medium body and rich, flavorful profile. It features a unique blend of tobaccos that provide a smooth draw and even burn, delivering earthy tones complemented by notes of spice and wood. This cigar is well-suited for those starting to explore more complex flavors but still prefer a cigar that isn't too overpowering.

6. Flor De las Antillas

Awarded the Cigar of the Year by Cigar Aficionado in 2012, the Flor De las Antillas is a beautifully crafted all-Nicaraguan puro that is medium-bodied with a sun-grown wrapper. It presents a sweet profile with subtle hints of spice, making it complex yet not too challenging for a novice. The flavors are robust but smooth, ideal for beginners eager to try a top-rated cigar that balances strength and subtlety.

7. Flor De Copan Churchill 

The Flor De Copan Churchill is a Honduran cigar known for its mild to medium strength, which is perfect for those just starting out. It generally offers a smoother and lighter smoking experience with flavors that can include wood, nuts, and a subtle sweetness. The Churchill size also provides a longer smoking time, allowing new enthusiasts to practice the art of savoring a cigar over a more extended period.

8. Rocky Patel Edge Maduro

This cigar is a bit more robust, featuring a full-bodied profile that comes from its Maduro wrapper. The Rocky Patel Edge Maduro delivers rich, deep flavors of chocolate, espresso, and spice, which might be more suitable for a beginner looking to step up in intensity and explore bolder tastes. Despite its strength, it’s crafted to be smooth and well-balanced, which helps prevent it from being overwhelming for newcomers.

9. Casa Magna

This European favorite is noted for its mild yet flavorful composition, smooth draw, and consistent quality, making it an excellent choice for beginners.

What kind of cigar should a beginner use?

When selecting a cigar for beginners, it's essential to choose one that provides a gentle introduction to the world of cigar smoking. For those new to cigars, starting with a milder, smoother option is advisable, as these tend to be less intense and more forgiving on the palate. A mild cigar will help prevent the overwhelming sensations that can sometimes accompany stronger varieties, making the smoking experience more enjoyable and accessible for a novice.

In addition to the strength of the cigar, the length and gauge (diameter) are also crucial factors to consider. Shorter cigars are generally better for beginners because they offer a quicker smoking session, which is ideal as newcomers may not yet be accustomed to smoking for extended periods. A smaller gauge is also preferable as it provides a cooler, easier draw, which can be more comfortable for those who are not used to smoking.

How do I choose my first cigar?

Choosing your first cigar is an exciting step into the world of cigar smoking, and it's important to make a selection that ensures a pleasant and memorable experience. Here are some key considerations to guide you in choosing the perfect first cigar:

The size and shape of a cigar can significantly affect the smoking experience. Cigars are measured by length and ring gauge (diameter). As a beginner, you might find it more comfortable to start with a smaller or medium-sized cigar, as these generally provide a shorter smoking time and are easier to handle. Robustos and coronas are popular choices for beginners due to their manageable size and moderate smoking duration.

Cigars come in a wide range of flavor profiles, from mild and smooth to bold and complex. For your first cigar, it’s advisable to choose a mild to medium strength cigar to avoid overwhelming your palate. You can also consider cigars with sweet or flavored notes, which can be more approachable and enjoyable for those not yet accustomed to the stronger, more traditional tobacco flavors.

What's the easiest cigar to smoke?

When searching for an easy-to-smoke cigar, especially for beginners, it's crucial to find one that provides a pleasant, non-intimidating experience. Here are a few reasons why cigars like the Macanudo Café and Romeo y Julieta Reserva Real are excellent choices for those new to cigar smoking, along with additional insights into selecting the ideal starter cigar:

Both the Macanudo Café and Romeo y Julieta Reserva Real are known for their mild strength, which is perfect for novices. These cigars provide a gentle introduction to the flavors and sensations of cigar smoking without overwhelming the palate. The mildness helps to avoid the potential for nicotine discomfort, which can be a common deterrent for those new to the hobby.

An easy draw and consistent burn are key features of a beginner-friendly cigar. These qualities ensure that smoking does not become a chore or frustrating. Both of these cigars are well-constructed, which contributes to a smooth draw, allowing for easy inhalation of smoke without too much resistance. A consistent burn means the cigar will not need frequent relighting or adjustments, which can enhance the overall smoking experience.

Choosing the right cigar as a beginner is crucial in shaping your smoking experience. With this list of beginner-friendly cigars, you're well on your way to discovering the pleasures of cigar smoking. Remember, the best way to truly appreciate cigars is to start slowly, experiment with different types, and find what truly suits your taste and comfort level. Happy smoking!