Best Cigars for Beginners: What to Smoke First
Best Cigars for Beginners: What to Smoke First
Starting your cigar journey should feel enjoyable and approachable. The best beginner cigars offer mild strength, smooth flavor, and reliable construction, helping new smokers understand how premium cigars are meant to taste. At Cigar Inc., Los Angeles’ leading premium cigar shop, we guide first-time and developing cigar smokers toward cigars that deliver comfort, confidence, and consistency.
What Makes a Cigar Beginner-Friendly?
- Mild to medium strength that won't overwhelm the palate
- Balanced, creamy flavor profiles (no heavy spice or pepper)
- Consistent construction for easy draws and even burns
- Approachable sizes like Robusto or Corona
Top Beginner-Friendly Wrapper Types
Connecticut Shade
Connecticut wrappers produce smooth, creamy, lightly sweet cigars, ideal for newer smokers exploring premium tobacco for the first time.
Dominican Blends
Dominican cigars are known for refinement, balance, and gentle nuance. They burn cleanly and rarely overwhelm the palate.
Recommended Cigars for Beginners
Below are mild-to-medium cigars available at Cigar Inc. that offer smooth flavors, excellent construction, and stress-free smoking experiences.
1. Oliva Connecticut Reserve (Mild–Medium)
Creamy, smooth, and lightly nutty, this is one of the best introductory cigars for beginners who want refinement without intensity.
Browse Oliva premium cigars2. Arturo Fuente Chateau Series (Mild)
A Dominican classic famous for its balanced profile, excellent burn, and subtle sweetness. Ideal for someone smoking their very first cigar.
Explore Dominican cigar selections3. El Septimo Sacred Arts Collection (Selected Mild Expressions)
El Septimo offers ultra-refined blends, including approachable mild options that feature buttery smooth flavor, consistent draw, and luxurious presentation.
Shop El Septimo cigars4. Oliva Serie G (Mild–Medium)
A balanced profile with hints of cedar, nuts, and cocoa. The Serie G is known for dependable construction and beginner-friendly flavor.
View Oliva Serie G & other optionsRecommended Sizes for Beginners
- Robusto (5x50): 45–60 minutes, balanced and approachable
- Corona (5.5x42): Classic flavor expression in a shorter format
- Petit Corona: Ideal for quick, introductory sessions
What Beginners Should Avoid
- Full-bodied Nicaraguan cigars with strong pepper
- Large ring gauges above 60
- Strong Maduro cigars (until palate develops)
FAQ
Should beginners inhale cigar smoke?
No. Cigars are meant to be tasted, not inhaled.
How long should a beginner session last?
30–45 minutes is ideal. Long enough to learn, short enough to stay comfortable.
How should I store cigars if I’m just getting into the hobby?
Use a temporary travel case or humidor alternative. See our guide: How to Store Cigars Without a Humidor.
