As a person just starting your cigar journey, figuring out which cigar is best to light up for your first time can be confusing. That decision also brings with it the dilemma of how much you should spend on your first cigar.
This is truly a subjective matter, so there is no clear-cut answer. The best thing you can do is educate yourself on what the different cigars have to offer. Things to look out for include the cigar type, size, and brand.
How much should I budget for my first cigar?
A safe range to budget for your first cigar could be anywhere from $5-$25.
If you choose to purchase a full box of cigars for a large gathering (most boxes contain 20-25 cigars), it could cost you anything from $100-$500.
How much do cigars usually cost?
Cigars have a wide range of costs because of the multiple factors that go into their production. Handmade cigars are usually much more expensive and range between $5-$10.
Machine-made cigars are typically cheaper because the focus is more on quantity than quality.
Some cigars also have limited editions, special boxes, and bundles that can cause their price to skyrocket.
As you climb the ladder, you’ll notice the price tags will float around $10-$20, or higher in some cases. It’s also worth noting most cigars above the $20 price point are made from tobaccos that have been fermented and aged for years.
How many cigars should I buy for my first time?
When beginning your cigar journey, the number of cigars you purchase should be based on how often you plan to enjoy them.
If you’re entirely new to cigars and want to see if you enjoy them, you should start easy by experiencing a single cigar.
However, another excellent option to consider is a sampler pack of cigars. A sampler pack usually comes with three-five cigars, allowing you to try multiple flavors without spending too much.
Lastly, if you plan on smoking with a large group of friends for the first time, it would be wise to invest in a full box of 20.
How do I keep a cigar fresh once I’ve purchased it?
There are multiple ways to ensure cigars stay fresh after purchase. Investing in a humidor is the most common way to maintain a cigar. A humidor is a vault specifically used for storing cigars. It protects your cigars from breaking due to exposure to temperature extremes.
When is the best time to smoke my first cigar?
The best time to smoke a cigar will vary depending on your preference and the occasion. People enjoy cigars for relaxation or leisure, so it would be great to smoke your first stogie when trying to unwind.
Other than leisure, many people smoke cigars as a celebratory tradition.
Other instances that make for a good time to smoke a cigar would be after a nice meal. Some cigar enthusiasts believe the flavors of a cigar can be paired well with the tastes of food that might be lingering.
Should I pair my first cigar with a drink?
Pairing your first cigar with a drink is completely up to you, but it can make for a very pleasant experience.
People often pair their cigars with whiskey, cognac, soft drinks, coffee, wine, and beer. These pairings can potentially enhance the flavors of the cigar or beverage.
If you decide to pair your first cigar with a drink, make sure it’s something you enjoy. As you continue to experiment with combinations, you will discover what resonates most with your palate.
What cigar brand should I try first?
There are a plethora of different cigar brands to choose from. The brand you go with will likely be based on recommendations you may receive from other cigar enthusiasts.
Certain brands have different flavors, strengths, and shapes. Some of the most popular brands for beginner cigar smokers are Arturo Fuente, Romeo y Julieta, Macanudo, Montecristo, Perdomo, Oliva, and Ashton.
Most of these brands have blends on the mellow-medium strength scale, making for a more satisfying smoking experience for a newcomer.
What is a good cigar to smoke for the first time?
For your first time smoking a cigar, we recommend picking up something with mild to medium strength. The Arturo Fuente Hemingway Short Story, the Macanudo Café, the Perdomo 10th Anniversary Champagne, Oliva Connecticut Reserve, and the Montecristo White series all fit the criteria.
Above all, it’s important to remember that enjoying a cigar is more profound than its cost. It’s ultimately about the experience! Be sure to savor the flavors provided by whatever cigar you choose. You can experiment with more expensive options as you develop a more experienced palate.
