Cigar Selection – How to Find the “Right” Cigar

The quotation marks in the title already hint at it: we don’t believe there is a single "right" cigar. One fascinating aspect of cigar smoking is that the same cigar can taste different to different smokers, due to factors such as individual constitution and smoking habits. Additionally, the time of day and the occasion when you light your cigar play a crucial role in choosing the “right” cigar.

But wait, there's more to consider: cigars aren’t just tobacco products – they’re handmade natural products. This means they’re subject to natural and human variations. Every cigar becomes a unique experience, crafted by the hands of the artisan who made it.

Given these facts, we should approach the evaluative criteria of cigars with caution. Ultimately, the taste of a cigar is as unique as the person smoking it. So, if you’re asking yourself, “Which cigars are good?” the answer might be: it depends. Cut your cigar, light it up, and let yourself be surprised by the diversity and nuances of the experience. In the world of cigars, there are no absolute truths, only endless discoveries.

What Makes a Cigar a Good Cigar?

What can we learn from all this? Try, try, try – the journey is as important as the destination! However, for budding aficionados, there are a few helpful tips we’d like to explore further. First of all, it's crucial to understand that the taste of a handmade cigar depends primarily on three factors:

1) The origin country of the tobacco used
2) The chosen format
3) The tobacco blend

Flavor-Defining Factors of a Cigar

As mentioned, along with the origin country, both the format and the tobacco blend play a crucial role in a cigar's flavor. A general rule of thumb is that thicker cigars tend to provide a more intense aroma and greater volume, as they are typically crafted with a wider selection of various tobaccos than thinner cigars. They also have the advantage of more even burning and offer better air circulation due to their format. Additionally, thicker cigars are often crafted by the most experienced torcedores (cigar rollers). On the other hand, thinner cigars tend to become bitter and hot more quickly.

When choosing the length of your cigar, you should also consider the occasion: how much time and attention can you or do you want to dedicate to the cigar? In the end, the choice of cigar depends entirely on your personal preferences.

The Best Cigars for Beginners

The gentlest cigars for beginners come, among other places, from the Dominican Republic. These cigars are the perfect entry point for newcomers. They offer a simple yet appealing smoking experience and are also known for their excellent craftsmanship.

Honduran cigars are known for their spicy, earthy flavor, which results from the unique geological conditions of their growing region. Surprisingly, they achieve the same high level of craftsmanship as Dominican cigars. Then there are the Cuban cigars – often called the “queen of cigars.” Their distinct earthy, spicy flavor is legendary and difficult to replicate.

The Best Cigars for Advanced Smokers

Nicaraguan cigars tend to be more robust and full-bodied, making them well-suited for seasoned cigar smokers who appreciate a complex and intense flavor profile and value high-quality craftsmanship. Nicaraguan cigars are generally sharper and smokier than, say, Honduran cigars, largely due to the unique soil composition. Their craftsmanship level is as high as in Honduras and the Dominican Republic. Often referred to as the spiciest of all cigars, the Nicaraguan cigar captivates primarily with its smoky flavor.

Our Top 4 Bestsellers

Now, let’s get to the highlights of our collection – our Top 4 Bestsellers. Each of these cigars represents masterful craftsmanship in its creation.

These are the four cigars most popular among our customers:

• Plasencia Alma Fuerte Sixto II Hexagono (6x60): Known for its excellent construction and intense flavor, this cigar is a favorite among both seasoned and novice smokers.
• Balmoral Anejo XO Oscuro Lancero FT Edicion Limitada 2019: This limited edition is prized for its rich, full flavor and exquisite craftsmanship.
• Oscar Valladares Super Fly Maduro Toro: Another premium cigar, known for its rich flavor and even, slow burn.
• Davidoff Signature Toro: The Davidoff Signature Toro is famous for its flawless construction, mild taste, and fine balance, making it an ideal choice for cigar lovers who prefer a gentler smoking experience.