You were told by someone, who knew someone, to go into the cigar shop and buy a cigar for some friends. You have never shopped for cigars for your friends before and you feel a lot of pressure trying to figure out what to get for them. You walk into the humidor of your local tobacconist and you see a plethora of cigar selections. Maduro, Oscuro, Connecticut, Habano, Sumatra, Robusto, Churchill, petit corona, 6,8,10 dollars a piece...oh my goodness where do I start!? Well the answer to these austere questions might be easier than you think...
You see, when you are shopping for someone else you you don't know what they may or may not like. The simplest answer is, of course, consult the owner of the shop and he/she can guide you through the shopping journey and help you find some smokes. However, they told you to buy them cigars and you are a risk taker and you want to impress them; or quite simply you don't want to look foolish and ask your local tobacconist "uhh I need cigars and I don't know what to do!". First off let me say that there is absolutely no shame in asking them which cigars might work, in fact you might be a smarter shopper by shelving your pride. Nonetheless, you were sent on a mission and you alone must complete the task.
Listed below is a group of cigars that, in my research, are great beginner smokes and have a universal profile for most people. This is not gospel, simply a list that might help you out.
1. Macanudo Gold Label
-Connecticut Shade Wrapper, Mexican San Andreas Binder, Piloto and Mexican Filler
This cigar provides smooth flavor and a draw second to none. It's a mild to medium body with tons of flavor and easy to pass around to your buddies at a party, wedding, or just camping around.
2. Rocky Patel 1999 Vintage Connecticut Torpedo
- This Connecticut shade wrapper cigar is also a class favorite for the neophyte or occasional cigar smoker. It has a notes of cedar wood, earth, and light coffee. You can almost never go wrong with this cigar and gives exceptional value if you are shopping for a group.
3. Ashton Classic
- This cigar is one of the most recognizable and classiest among cigar smokers. If you want to impress your friends and look like you know quality, this is the cigar for you. Veteran cigar smokers know this cigar very well and will compliment your bravery. It’s a Connecticut Shade wrapper with Dominican binder and filler provides notes of cream and white pepper. It has an exceptional draw and simple design. It is the most expensive of the list, but you get what you pay for.
Well I hope this gives you a starting point for your cigar journey and remember that my opinion is not the only one that matters. If you have questions about this topic or any others, just hit me up, thanks for reading.