From Novice to Nostalgic: 5 Steps to Picking Your First Cigar Without Looking Awkward

So, you’ve wandered into the world of cigars. Maybe you’ve seen them in the movies, maybe you’ve heard friends waxing lyrical about Cuban classics, or maybe you just like the idea of pairing one with a dram of whisky. Either way, cigars carry this mysterious, intimidating aura,  and for the uninitiated, buying or picking your first cigar can feel like walking into a test you didn’t study for. The good news? We’re here to arm you with the knowledge (and confidence) to make that first purchase without looking like a total rookie.

At Robert Graham 1874, we’ve spent decades demystifying cigars for everyone,  from wide-eyed beginners to seasoned aficionados. Our staff don’t just sell cigars; they live and breathe them. And in this guide, we’ll take you through five simple, practical steps that will help you go from novice to nostalgic with ease. Whether you’re shopping online for the best beginner cigars UK or stepping into one of our cigar shops in Edinburgh, Glasgow, or Cambridge, you’ll have everything you need to make a confident choice.

Step 1: What’s the Best Cigar for a Beginner?

Let’s cut straight to it,  not all cigars are created equal, and your first cigar should be a gentle introduction, not an assault on your senses. Jumping straight into a full-bodied Nicaraguan powerhouse is like running a marathon without stretching: impressive, but probably not wise.

Start mellow. Cigars with Connecticut wrappers are your best bet, they’re typically lighter, smoother, and more approachable. A few favourites we often recommend for beginners:

• Romeo y Julieta No. 2 (Cuban) – A globally recognised name, with a delicate flavour that whispers rather than shouts.
• Montecristo Open series – Designed with the modern, casual smoker in mind, these are softer, more elegant, and forgiving on the palate.

Think of it like whisky,  you wouldn’t necessarily hand someone a cask-strength Islay peat monster as their first dram. Start with something welcoming.

Step 2: How Many Should I Buy?

Now you’ve got your eye on a beginner-friendly stick, the next question is: how many do you pick up?

• Singles: The safest play for absolute beginners. One cigar, no pressure. If you like it, you can explore more. If you don’t, you’re not stuck with a box gathering dust.
• Samplers: A brilliant way to experiment. Sampler packs usually come with a curated selection of cigars across different strengths, flavours, and regions. Think of it as a tasting flight for cigars.
• 5-Packs: Ideal if you’ve found something you like and want to revisit it. Smoking the same cigar a few times helps you start recognising flavours and nuances you might miss the first time around.

Our advice? Start with singles or a sampler. It keeps things low-risk, high-reward, and gives you the chance to refine your preferences.

Step 3: How Do I Choose a Cigar in a Shop?

Walking into a cigar shop can be overwhelming. Shelves upon shelves of beautifully presented cigars, mysterious names, different shapes, different colours,  it can feel like being dropped into the middle of a foreign language class.

Here’s how to navigate it:

1. Ask the staff – This isn’t just us tooting our own horn,  seriously, ask questions. Knowledgeable tobacconists love guiding newcomers. Tell us what you like in food, drink, or whisky, and we can match you with a cigar that fits.
2. Look at the size (vitola) – For a beginner, a robusto (around 5 inches long, medium ring gauge) is a sweet spot. It gives you a solid introduction without a huge time commitment.
3. Check the wrapper – Light, golden Connecticut wrappers are often milder; darker wrappers can lean richer and bolder.

Don’t be afraid to take your time. Half the joy of cigars is the ritual of choosing and preparing them.

If you’re near one of our stores, come visit: our shop in Edinburgh (Rose Street), shop in Glasgow (West George Street), or our shop in Cambridge (Sussex Street), with aded cigar lounge to try and enjoy instore.  You’ll not only find the best beginner cigars in the UK, but also friendly staff who can walk you through every step.

Step 4: Can You Tell a Cigar’s Flavour Just by Looking at It?

Here’s the kicker: you can guess a cigar’s character by its appearance, but it’s not an exact science.

• Wrapper colour gives you a rough clue. Lighter wrappers (Connecticut) = milder, creamier. Darker wrappers (Maduro) = richer, sometimes sweeter or more robust.
• Construction matters. A well-rolled cigar will feel firm but not rock solid, with no cracks or soft spots.
• Size and shape also play a role. Thicker cigars tend to deliver more smoke and a slower burn, while thinner cigars can feel sharper and more intense.

But the truth is, you can’t really know until you smoke it. That’s where our team’s recommendations, and your own taste-testing,  come in.

Step 5: Enjoy the Experience (Without Overthinking It)

Your first cigar isn’t supposed to be a masterclass in flavour analysis,  it’s about enjoying the moment. Pair it with something you like (a coffee, a whisky, or just good company). Don’t worry about puffing in a certain way or ‘getting’ all the tasting notes straight away.

If you finish it halfway and decide that’s enough,  fine. If you love it so much you immediately want another,  even better. Cigar smoking is about ritual, relaxation, and finding your own rhythm.

Why Buy From Robert Graham 1874?

There’s a world of cigars out there, but having a knowledgeable guide makes all the difference. At Robert Graham 1874, our staff are cigar enthusiasts who can:

• Recommend cigars based on your personal tastes.
• Build you a custom sampler so you can explore confidently.
• Share insights on how to cut, light, and enjoy your cigars without fuss.

Whether you’re browsing online for the best beginner cigars UK or stepping into one of our stores in Edinburgh, Glasgow, or Cambridge, you’ll always get expert advice and genuine passion.

We’re not just a shop,  we’re a community for whisky and cigar lovers.

Final Thoughts

Choosing your first cigar doesn’t have to be a daunting experience. By starting mellow, buying smart, asking questions, and trusting your palate, you’ll quickly move from novice curiosity to nostalgic appreciation. Every aficionado started somewhere,  and with the right guidance, your journey will be as smooth as that first draw.

So, next time you’re tempted to dip your toe into the cigar world, don’t stress. Swing by Robert Graham 1874’s cigar shop in Edinburgh, Glasgow, or Cambridge, or browse our online collection. Let us help you light up your first cigar with confidence.