A quick primer to get you started in the world of premium cigars

When it comes to the world of premium cigars, there are countless options, and making those first few buys can be overwhelming as you see so many options in front of you – various sizes, shapes, countless cigars brands, styles, strengths, and just…where do you start? So let’s take a quick look at the different types of cigars and what makes them unique, as well as consider some tips for finding that perfect cigar to suit your personal tastes.

Types of Premium Cigars

There are three main types of cigars: hand-rolled, machine-made, and blended. Hand-rolled cigars are made by skilled artisans who carefully craft each cigar by hand. What our Spanish speaking friends call “Hecho a Mano” cigars are considered to be the finest and most sought-after, as they are typically crafted with the highest quality tobacco and the greatest attention to detail. Next up we have Machine-made cigars, which, obviously are made using a machine that rolls and shapes the tobacco. These cigars are less expensive and typically less complex in flavor than hand-rolled cigars. That said, they can still be a great option for those looking to try something new. Finally blended cigars are a combination of hand-rolled and machine-made cigars.

Generally, what you’ll find here on AC is only hand-rolled premium cigars. There are plenty of shops out there that have a wide range of machine-made sticks. It’s just not our domain or expertise, but we’d be happy to refer you to quality merchants who can serve you with machine-made cigars.

Finding the Perfect Cigar

When looking for the perfect cigar, there are a few key factors to consider. First, think about your personal taste preferences. Do you prefer a milder cigar or something with a bolder flavor? Are you looking for a particular type of tobacco or origin? Once you’ve narrowed down your options based on taste, it’s important to consider the cigar’s construction and appearance. A well-constructed cigar should have a smooth, even burn and a consistent ash. The wrapper should be free of blemishes and have a nice sheen.

Premium Cigar Brands

There are hundreds of premium cigar brands on the market, each with its own unique style and flavor profile. Some of the best known brands include Cohiba, Arturo Fuente, Montecristo, and Romeo y Julieta. Cohiba cigars are known for their smooth, rich flavor and are considered to be one of the finest cigars in the world. Montecristo cigars are known for their complex flavor and perfect construction, while Romeo y Julieta cigars are known for their smooth, creamy flavor and excellent burn.

Cigar Samplers

A terrific way to learn your tastes, try brands, sizes, strengths and learn what you like and what you don’t is to buy cigar samplers. Rather than spend your hard-earned cash on full boxes, bundles of even 5 packs of just one type of cigar, a sampler offers you the opportunity to sample multiple different cigars.

Samplers can be made up of cigars of…

– A particular size, for example our popular 12 Robusto Cigar Sampler
– A particular wrapper, for example our 10 Maduro Cigar Sampler
– A particular strength, for example our Mild Cigar Sampler, 10 Cigars

Plus we offer samplers, handpicked by our experienced staff here, for example our Smoke Mikes Cigars Sampler, created by our longest serving staff member Mike, who’s been picking cigars, creating samplers and serving our web customers since 1996.

– A particular brand, for example our Partagas 10 Cigar Sampler

Whether you’re a seasoned smoker or just starting out, the world of premium cigars has something for everyone. With so many options to choose from, it can be overwhelming to navigate the various types, brands, and styles available. By considering your personal taste preferences, the cigar’s construction and appearance, and the brand, you’ll be able to find the perfect cigar to suit your needs.