If you’re new to cigars, walking into a humidor can feel overwhelming. With so many brands, shapes, and blends, where do you even begin? At Tobacco8, we believe your first cigar should be an experience, not just a purchase. Here’s a simple guide to help you make the right choice.
Start with Size and Shape
For beginners, go with a robusto or corona size. They’re medium in length and thickness, offering a balanced smoking time (30–45 minutes) without being too strong.
👉 Avoid very large or very thin cigars for your first experience:
- Very large cigars (like Churchill or Double Corona) can take 90 minutes or more to smoke, which is overwhelming for beginners. If you’re not used to the strength, you may get nicotine fatigue or lose interest halfway through.
- Very thin cigars (like Panetela or Lancero) burn hotter and faster because of the narrow ring gauge. This makes the smoke harsher on the palate, which can turn off a new smoker who hasn’t developed a tolerance yet.
By starting with a medium size, you’ll enjoy a smoother draw, a more balanced flavor profile, and a manageable smoking time — the perfect way to begin your cigar journey.
Strength Matters
Cigars are often categorized as mild, medium, or full-bodied based on their strength and flavor intensity.
- Mild cigars (like Connecticut shade-wrapped cigars) are smoother, creamier, and less intense in nicotine. They allow beginners to focus on the flavors without feeling dizzy or overwhelmed.
- Medium cigars provide a more complex taste with notes of spice, wood, or earth, while still being manageable for those with some experience. They’re a natural next step once you’ve built a little tolerance.
- Full-bodied cigars deliver bold, concentrated flavors and higher nicotine content. While they can be incredibly rewarding, they are often too strong for new smokers, causing nausea or palate fatigue if your body isn’t used to it.
👉 Tip: Always start mild and move your way up.
Think of it like wine or whiskey — you wouldn’t start with the strongest scotch on your very first sip. By easing into cigars gradually, you’ll give your palate time to recognize subtle flavors, build tolerance, and truly appreciate the richness of stronger blends later on.
Flavor Profiles
Think about what you enjoy in food and drinks.
- If you like coffee, cream, or nuts, try a mild Connecticut blend.
- If you enjoy spices, pepper, or strong whiskey, a medium-to-full Nicaraguan cigar may fit.
- If you’re curious about sweetness, look for flavored or infused cigars.
Budget Wisely
A good beginner cigar doesn’t have to be expensive. Many great options are available between $8–$15. Once you know your preferences, you can explore premium and rare blends.
💵 Beginner-Friendly Cigars ($8–$15)
- Romeo y Julieta 1875 Bully
- Size: Robusto (5″ x 50)
- Profile: Mild-to-medium, smooth, with notes of cedar and coffee.
- Macanudo Café Hyde Park
- Size: Robusto (5.5″ x 49)
- Profile: Mild, creamy, hints of nuts and light spice.
- Arturo Fuente Hemingway Short Story
- Size: Perfecto (4″ x 49)
- Profile: Mild-to-medium, sweet wood, earth, and spice.
- Oliva Serie G Robusto
- Size: Robusto (4.5″ x 50)
- Profile: Medium, cocoa, coffee, and cedar notes.
- Montecristo White Series Rothchilde
- Size: Robusto (5″ x 52)
- Profile: Mild-to-medium, creamy, smooth, with a touch of vanilla.
Where to Enjoy Your First Cigar
If you’re local to Southern California, come join us at Tobacco8’s upcoming lounge in Chino Hills. It’s not just about smoking—it’s about sharing the culture, meeting fellow enthusiasts, and learning together.
✅ Key Takeaway
Your first cigar should be enjoyable, not intimidating. Start mild, choose a manageable size, and focus on the experience. Remember—it’s not about finding the “best” cigar, but finding your first favorite cigar.