Should I buy a Cohiba Robusto, a Montecristo cigar, or perhaps a Trinidad Esmeralda? If you are bothered by such questions, this blog is the perfect answer. Read on to choose your first cigar and experience the sheer luxury of it.
Choosing a cigar as a novice can be quite overwhelming. You can easily lose yourself in the myriad of cigars with so many brands, sizes, and shapes available. Today, the most prominent cigar brands are Cohiba, Montecristo, Romeo y Julieta, Davidoff, Trinidad, Juan Lopez, and H. Upmann. Whether it’s a Cuban cigar or a New World cigar, the following points will help you choose the best one for you.
Shapes and sizes of cigars
Cigars are available in multiple shapes and sizes, and each one can give you a different experience. The length and ring gauge of a cigar determines its size. Larger cigars have longer smoking time, whereas smaller cigars are best for short smoking periods.
Cigars come in many shapes, but they are mainly categorized into two:
- Parejo
Prejo cigars are the common cylindrical-shaped cigars that are flat and open at one end and round and capped at the other. Some perfect examples of parejo-shaped cigars are the Romeo y Julieta Churchills, Cohiba Behike 54, and Montecristo No. 4.
- Figurado:
Figurado is any shape that deviates from the parejo. These cigars are not straight, and the common figurados include the pyramid, torpedo, belicoso, and perfecto. is the perfect example of a pyramid-shaped cigar.
Cigars come in different sizes, too. The various sizes are explained below:
- Corona:
A classic size, the Corona cigar is typically about 5.5 to 6 inches long with a ring gauge of 42 to 44. It’s known for its traditional and flavorful smoke.
- Churchill:
A grand cigar, the Churchill is usually around 7 inches long with a ring gauge of 47 to 50. This size offers an extended smoking experience and allows the flavors to develop gradually.
- Petit corona:
Smaller than the traditional Corona, the Petit Corona measures about 4.5 to 5 inches in length with a ring gauge of 40 to 42. It’s a great option for a quick smoke.
- Robusto:
One of the most popular sizes, a Robusto cigar is typically around 4.5 to 5.5 inches long with a ring gauge of 50 to 54. It offers a well-balanced smoking experience and is an excellent choice for beginners. A Cohiba Robusto is a great choice for beginners and can offer an exquisite taste.
Cigar wrappers
The wrapper is the outermost layer of the cigar and plays a crucial role in its flavour and appearance. Wrappers come in different colours depending on their curing and fermentation. Below are the different types of cigar wrappings:
- Connecticut:
Known for its smooth and mild characteristics, often found on mild to medium-bodied cigars.
- Habano:
Offering a rich and earthy flavor, this wrapper is commonly found on medium to full-bodied cigars.
- Maduro:
Known for its sweet and chocolaty taste, it is usually used on full-bodied cigars.
Assess the cigar’s construction
A well-constructed cigar ensures an even burn and a pleasurable smoking experience. Check your cigar for any cracks, tears, or soft spots. A well-made cigar should be firm and evenly packed, allowing for an exotic smoking experience
Smoking etiquettes
Smoking etiquette is crucial to smoking in a dignified manner. As a beginner, familiarize yourself with smoking manners. While smoking, keep mindful of others, as not everyone likes the aroma of smoking. Make sure to smoke in permitted areas and avoid public spaces.
Our Premium choices for cigar aficionados
Trinidad Topes:
Hailing from Cuba, Trinidad Topes is a luxurious cigar that has earned a dedicated following among enthusiasts. With a complex blend of flavors, this medium to full-bodied cigar offers notes of wood, leather, and a subtle sweetness that develops throughout the smoke.
Cohiba Talisman:
Another gem from Cuba, Cohiba Talisman, is a limited edition cigar known for its exceptional craftsmanship and rich taste. It boasts a full-bodied profile with delightful hints of cocoa, coffee, and spices, making it an unforgettable choice for special occasions.
Buying the right cigar as a novice can be a daunting task. With a little exploration and help from cigar aficionados, you can definitely have an ecstatic first experience. Before buying your first cigar, gather enough information regarding its sizes, shapes, and wrappings, as each variation offers a unique experience. You can find top-quality cigars both online and offline. If you are looking for a reliable online store to buy cigars, The 1966 Showroom should be at the top of your list. Our collection includes a wide variety of cigars, from mild and smooth to bold and strong.
