From time to time cigar smoking newbies will ask us how to pick a cigar that speaks of their personality. We believe that cigar smoking is like continuing education; the more experiences you open your mind to, the more you learn about yourself. Nonetheless, we have some pointers for those stumbling onto this blog for the first time:

First, we recommend talking to your local tobacconist. Someone who enjoys their craft as much as tobacconist will delight in nothing more than waxing philosophical on all the types of cigars their store carries. This person will navigate you through the various humidors, brands, and flavors and work to gather a selection of recommendations. Tobacconists are passionate about cigars and want you to leave the store feeling comfortable with your purchase, and enjoying your first smoke.

As you’re touring the cigar selection, engage your tobacconist with these talking points:

Diameter aka Thickness. Thicker cigars have a smoother draw than the skinnier cigars because the cigar itself will burn slower. The thicker the cigar, the longer you will experience the smoke. Be sure to discuss diameter with respect to the cigar selections your tobacconist chooses.

Color. Wrapper color variations indicate the length of time spent at the tobacco plant, or could also mean that the cigar has come from a location high in altitude. Darker cigar wrappers will mean a sweeter, stronger-flavored cigar described as “spicy”. Lighter colored cigar wrappers are the opposite end of this spectrum and are described as “mild”. Because there are so many variations, flavors, and blends you may want to start off at the lighter end of the color spectrum. Ultimately, it depends on your tastes, however; many aficionados prefer varying flavors depending on the time of day.

Length. Size matters. When you’re new at smoking cigars you may be tempted to buy the biggest bad boy in the bunch, but we urge you to exercise some restraint. Your tobacconist probably will too. Cigar smoking is about the experience; not fulfilling some preconceived image. A cigar of proper length will sit in your hand comfortably and feel right when you’re pulling on the draw. Test drive the cigars your tobacconist suggests.

Your tobacconist will likely give you a lesson in cigar construction and freshness, and you should never feel embarrassed to discuss price. It’s no fun to smoke a cigar that you feel you paid too much to enjoy. We’ll say it time and time again; cigar smoking is about enjoying an experience, not about status quo. As you come to experiment with cigars you’ll get a feel for preference. Enjoy your journey.