If your Christmas quest includes one of the most trendy gifts around—you know those outings to find that special something for that special someone—it might just mean you need to find the right cigar.
For those of you who are unfamiliar with the best choices, especially for the man—or woman—who has everything—your search may just begin and end here.
Here is a simple guide to help you make the right choice—at the right price. We’re all familiar with the old adage you get what you pay for, and the case of cigars is no different than other things—it’s not necessarily true. Just because a cigar doesn’t set you back for a huge chunk of money doesn’t mean that it isn’t a good choice.
When choosing the “dream stogie” for your aficionado, keep in mind these simple rules:
Many people prefer milder to medium-body cigars. Few cigars can be described as “mild” and there are tremendous differences in body and strength that range from those with a lighter color and medium-body to high-end powerhouses that define the big name brands.
Now that you have decided to purchase a cigar for your friend you take the Internet approach—how hard could it be—simply Google buying a cigar, right? That approach will land you sitting in front of a screen with over 2 million choices! Instead, follow these few pointers and you’ll be well on your way.
For “real” cigar smokers, you must realize that some of the pleasure is in “the hunt.” Most smokers relish the opportunity to try new smokes. Even loyalists to one overall favorite will enjoy a change of taste now and then. It is also true that most smokers—with refined taste—do not settle on one cigar but rather a rotation of favorites—but even they will not hesitate to add a promising new entry into the fold. So don’t be afraid to buy something that your smoker hasn’t tried yet—you may dig up something they never would have thought to try!
Another way to never go wrong is to purchase one of many “special occasion” cigars, which smokers really appreciate receiving.
Some simple rules of thumb:
New smokers usually search for a mild to medium cigar in a lighter brown wrapper—generally speaking the darker the wrapper, the stronger the smoke, although that is not always the case.
You should also choose a cigar with a length of at least 5 inches and a 46 ring. These will have a more mellow taste and never burn too hot.
Good sizes to start with are Corona, Robusto (Rothschild) or Churchill.
Most cigars can be classified according to standards measured by the body, the size and the rating. By following the overall ratings, you’ll know how to choose when you arrive at the cigar shop of your choice.
Cigars are “rated”, a system introduced by Cigar Aficionado magazine, anywhere from 0-70. A cigar with a rating under 70 is one to stay away from. 70-79 represents a cigar of average to good commercial quality, 80-89 very good to excellent, 90-94 outstanding and 95-100 classic.
With these pointers in mind, here are five great cigars to choose from which will appeal to most every serious (or just beginning) smoker out there.
#1. CAO Gold: a classic cigar blend. Mild-Nicaraguan- features a creamy smoke swirls in the mouth. The line has two different sizes t recently rated 90+ (outstanding). Perfect for beginners who wish to start on the trendy side—perfect for client meetings. Priced form $4.20 as singles.
#2. Sancho Panza-Honduran–90+ ratings– 10 sizes–Connecticut Shade wrapper- versatile- wide range of aromas- great for more conservative smoker-single cigars are priced from $3.75 each
#3- Camacho Corojo—when stepping up to the next level
Camacho Corojo is the best answer–nice, full body and bold taste with a dry and spicy aroma—definitely for more experienced cigar–Single cigars start at $3.95 each.
When really looking to make an impression:
#4. Diamond Crown—rare—grown and rolled by famous Arturo Fuente factory in the Dominican Republic—eight sizes mainly 54-ring gauges- aimed at the high roller who is looking for a smoke suitable to reflect his lifestyle. Great smoke for that lazy drive in the Porsche- available in single quantities from $9.50 to $20. This cigar is so rare that it is almost completely unavailable for purchase in its elegant boxes of 15 cigars.
#5- CAO extreme – superb, full-bodied cigar – square shape from the “box pressed” construction–received a 91 and a 93–perfect to make the ultimate statement–class, sophistication and taste–singles start at $6.80 each.
By following his simple guide, we guarantee your smoker will be very happy as your money goes…Up In Smoke.
