By: Viraj Shah
If you want to try a new type of cigar, you may feel overwhelmed by all the available options. Like wines, cigars have varying characteristics that appeal to different people. Each one is unique, so it’s helpful to know what to look for so you have a better chance of purchasing something you will like. Here are the tips for purchasing a new type of cigar to try.
Choose the Right Strength
The first tip is to select the strength you prefer. If you’ve smoked cigars before, you probably know whether you choose a mild, medium, or full-bodied cigar. It’s not recommended you try a full-bodied cigar for your next purchase if you’ve only ever smoked milds. One way to know which strength suits you is to compare it to the foods and beverages you like. Salad and tea lovers may prefer mild cigars, while black coffee drinkers may love the full-body flavor.
Pick the Correct Size
The length of a cigar determines how long it will take for you to smoke it. If you are purchasing a new cigar for a special occasion, deciding how long you will have to smoke the cigar is essential. For reference, it takes about an hour to smoke a six-inch cigar. A three-inch cigar can be smoked in twenty minutes, making it the ideal choice for a quick smoke. It’s also important to look at the ring gauge of the cigar. Larger gauges take longer to smoke. You can choose a corona, Robusto, or toro cigar, with toros being the largest and flavor-producing option.
Consider Your Budget
Don’t be fooled into thinking only expensive cigars are worth smoking. Plenty of affordable cigars provide a satisfying experience without breaking the bank. Besides, you won’t be able to fully relax and enjoy smoking your new cigar if you feel guilty or worried about spending too much on it. Just stick to options in your price range, and you’ll find a good choice. However, feel free to treat yourself and opt for a high-quality cigar every once in a while. Sometimes, quality is worth more than quantity.
Select a Shape
Cigars come in all sizes and shapes, and this can impact your smoking experience. For example, a perfecto cigar has a different diameter at each end. Since there is a different tobacco fill level throughout the cigar, the flavor may vary as you smoke it. Other popular shapes include the culebra and the figurado. There’s no one shape that’s better than the others. It will take time and experience to work out your personal preferences.
Don’t Be Afraid to Branch Out
Many cigar experts warn against sticking to just one flavor, size, or shape. While there’s nothing wrong with having a preference, it’s okay to try new things even if you end up wasting a few cigars along the way. You may even grow to love certain flavors you thought you hated. It’s all a part of cigar smoking and attaining aficionado status.
Do Your Research
Not all cigars are created equal. You need to know the signs of a bad cigar so you don’t waste your money and risk disappointment. You shouldn’t purchase any cigars that look dry and cracked, as those are signs of an outdated, damaged cigar. If you’re unsure about the condition of a cigar, you can always ask your tobacconist.
Published by: Holy Minoza
