Stogie Commentary: Introducing Cigars to Newcomers

The holiday season is a time for get-togethers. If you’re lucky, and if the weather permits, at least some of the parties you attend will include some time in the backyard, patio, or other smoke-friendly location with the opportunity to smoke a cigar.

Many times, someone will ask if you have another stick. Or you’ll want to share your pleasure and make the initial offer. In either case, some of those who join you will be cigar newcomers, so you might want to plan a little in advance.

The most common recommendation is to offer a novice smoker a mild cigar, like a Macanudo or Dominican Montecristo. I disagree. I think you need something with more taste and interest. Otherwise, the new smoker’s reaction is likely to be, “Why am I sucking on these leaves? There’s just not much to it.”

Now, I’m not recommending you break out the Camacho Coyolars or powerhouse Joya de Nicaraguas. But there are many, many flavorful and interesting medium strength cigars that a newcomer could enjoy. If you need some suggestions, take a spin through the Stogie Guys Cigar Reviews Archive.

Interesting shapes, like the Punch Champion or diademas, can also make that first smoke more memorable. For length and girth, stick with smaller ring gauges and a length of five inches or less. Better that they end wanting more than wishing there was less.

So, spread the word. And the good cigars.

-George E

photo credit: Flickr