Have you ever thought about smoking a cigar but are unsure where to start? This experience is quite common for those who are new to cigar smoking. Unlike cigarettes, smoking a cigar requires some preparation and research before going for your first try. However, while some find it complex, it’s possible to have a pleasurable first-time experience with smoking cigars, provided you select the right products, have the right tools, and smoke your first cigar accordingly.
Here are some tips which you may find helpful in purchasing cigars as a beginner:
Learn About Cigars
As a beginner, you may have questions about what cigars taste and smell like. You’ll also want to familiarize yourself with some terms associated with cigar shopping and smoking. Finally, you’ll also need a guide on how best to enjoy your cigar, especially for your first time.
You can search for step-by-step guides online or watch virtual tutorials to learn about cigars. For instance, you can consult with Bespoke Unit and explore various topics related to cigar smoking. This way, you’ll feel more prepared when it’s time to have your first cigar experience.
Look For A Quality Cigar Shop Or Supplier
You can find several tobacco shops online based on your location. You can compare client reviews or find websites that discuss comparisons across brands and distributors to pick the best one. Apart from this, you can also search for local shops that offer tobacco products in your area. Some specialty stores offer items formulated from specific regions with a unique flavor profile that may be interesting to try. Hence, when selecting shops, it’s best to explore and compare many options.
Begin With A Mild Flavor
If you’re going to smoke a cigar for the first time, experts recommend choosing a cigar with a light, mild flavor. Cigars come in various strengths and depths of flavor, and as a beginner, it’s best to take it slow and relish your first experience. With this in mind, starting with a robust and full-bodied cigar could be too much to handle for newbies. Moreover, the flavor profile of the item may be challenging to recognize. Hence, selecting more subtle flavors is recommended.
Pair Your Cigar And Drink Accordingly
Cigar smoking is enjoyable when paired with a drink that matches its flavor profile. Many cigar enthusiasts smoke while drinking fine liquor such as whiskey, bourbon, rum, or rye. Some also enjoy drinking coffee and tea while smoking, as the caffeine flavor usually complements the aroma of a cigar. While you may need to try pairing variations a few times before finding one that you’d enjoy best, you can also experiment with different flavor combinations and enjoy the discovery process.
Buy Small Size And Quantity For The First Time
Since it’ll be your first attempt at cigar smoking, it’s wise and practical to start small regarding quantity and size. Doing so allows you to test more flavors and brands in less time, and you won’t waste too many if you don’t like the taste of the pack you purchased. Moreover, smoking cigars may not suit everyone’s tastes and preferences, so it’s best to start with a small test pack to find out if it works for you.
Select Medium-Priced Items
Aside from the size and quantity of your first cigar pack, you’ll also need to consider the price of what you’ll purchase. You’ll find products of different price ranges depending on the brand, quality, origin, and ingredients. Some cigars come at a premium price, while others are more budget-friendly. In this case, it may be wise to select a mid-priced item so you can enjoy good quality without spending too much.
Prepare A Proper Storage For Your Cigars
Finally, you’ll need to prepare proper storage for your cigars to keep them smelling and tasting fresh. Exposure to air and moisture can alter a cigar’s flavor, so it’s essential to keep them in an airtight container once the packaging is opened. Experienced cigar smokers usually have a humidor used to store cigars. However, beginners can use a plastic container or a glass jar with a tight lid for their cigar’s safekeeping.
Even for newcomers to this tobacco product, smoking a cigar may be a fun, enjoyable, and relaxing experience. Cigar smoking may appear more complex than other tobacco-based products such as cigarettes and vaping, but once you find the brand, taste, and pairing that suits you best, you can quickly learn and become accustomed to it. There’s no reason to hesitate, so go ahead and give cigars a try.