This article on buying cigars is really meant for either the casual cigar smoker or the newbie but, those of you who are experienced at puffing the tasty leaf, you will want to read this as well in order to help educate those very same beginners that you happen to personally know. This piece can help YOU to help THEM in learning how to enjoy the smoky pastime that we all love.
QUESTION 1: WHAT ARE THE BEST CIGARS FOR BEGINNERS TO START WITH?
It is the most important first inquisition that a beginner should ask and the answer is always the same. It is not the brand that one should be directed to, but the blend of tobacco and the outer wrapper leaf. MILD bodied cigars – THAT is what the newbie should begin their smoky quest with.
Light brown or golden yellow wrappers are generally woven around milder, creamier, slightly sweeter cigars. They are clean tasting and easy on the palate. Much like a new wine drinker starts with lighter, fruitier offerings as opposed to heavy and peppery Cabs and Shiraz, the new cigar smoker has to start out light and train his untrained palate before he can move onward and upward.
QUESTION 2: WHAT SIZES ARE BEST FOR A BEGINNER TO START OUT WITH?
A robusto or a corona. At 5 inches, the robusto is a nice short size, but has a 50RG which allows an ample amount of air to pass through, making the cigar a cooler smoke for the mouth to enjoy. As for the corona, it is a slender size at around 5 ½ by 42 and it is the size that many of the blenders and cigar makers utilise to test new blends that they are creating.
For some reason they feel they get the most flavour and true attributes and characteristics of the tobacco with that size, and unknowingly a newbie should experience that particular cigar at its best.
QUESTION 3: I’VE SMOKED THIS CERTAIN BRAND BEFORE AND I LIKED IT. WHAT DO YOU RECOMMEND THAT IS SIMILAR?
Let the customer service know that you are kind of new to the game and mention what you have smoked and liked. You should be directed to that cigar or given suggestions about other sticks with similar tobaccos, body and flavour profiles. Trying out different cigars will expand your palate and help you discover what tasty tobacco treats are the best for you.
QUESTION 4: WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN NATURAL AND MADURO WRAPPERS?
Most cigar newbies are frightened to death by the sight of dark and oily Maduro wrapped cigars. They automatically assume that they are going to be overly strong and harsh. But for those of us who dig the Maduro, we are well aware that they often display a naturally sweet taste with flavour profiles of coffee beans and chocolate.
Do your research and find out how Maduro leaf is cured before buying cigars. Also, spend a little time reading through online reviews to find the flavour profile that you might want to try.
QUESTION 5: WHAT’S THE BEST WAY TO STORE MY CIGARS AFTER I LEAVE THE SHOP?
How to keep your precious sticks fresh (at the right temperature and humidity) is an important question because someone who really knows his cigars can help you out (depending how long before you smoke the cigars you purchase). If it is a day or two, you can leave them in the cello (if it’s dry heat in the winter, a day max). If it is a few days to a week you can keep them in a zip lock bag or get yourself a small travel humidor or small desktop-type humidor. If you are really going to start enjoying them on a regular basis, ask the customer service to give you the run-down on what type of humidors are out there and what is best for you!
If you play golf or poker regularly you will want the perfect travel case. If you plan on becoming a successful business tycoon, a standing display shelf case will make you the envy of all who know you. Do your research, ask those who know and you will be all set.
Source: https://www.famous-smoke.com/cigaradvisor/5-important-questions-buying-cigars
