I've been listening to Cigar Dave for years, and have been a regular Pipe smoker.

I've wanted to step up into Cigar smoking, but am intimidated by the selections. I mean, I don't want to pick one that will turn me off of pursuing what is obviously a rich and diverse experience.

My main question at this point is, as I prefer a less biting tobacco, what should be my gateway Cigar?

i.e. What is a good brand/style for the newbie smoker?

Thanks

I would try a Gispert Robusto as these are really mild and have a good taste plus they are inexpensive. For a little different flavor that is on the mild side you might try a Macanudo Hyde Park Maduro. Alot of people think of Macanudo as beginner cigars but the Maduros are nice and tastey. For a more flavorful and a little more robust cigar you might try a Arturo Fuente Chateau Fuente Sungrown. Do a search on the non-cuban forum for more selections.

I agree with all the above cigars. I too am fairly new to regular cigar smoking, and enjoyed all three. At first maduro's weren't my taste, but after a few months, I have quickly grown to love them when I am in the mood. I started with Romeo y Julietta but quickly switched to a variety of Macanudo's to get into cigars.

Read, talk to as many people you can, and remember everyone has a different taste they care for. Try 5 packs and samplers to explore different flavor profiles and strengths.

quote:

Originally posted by Ganelon:
I mean, I don't want to pick one that will turn me off of pursuing what is obviously a rich and diverse experience.

Why would you let it turn you off? One bad pizza wouldn't turn you off of food, would it? It's impossible to suggest a cigar because everyone's tastes are different. Most good quality cigars aren't bitey so try whatever appeals to you. It may take awhile to get your footing but that's part of the fun. Enjoy the journey.

read some of the "tonight's smoke" post to get some names in mind when going for some smokes. also there are great site out there with "mild" samplers for the new smoker. also, if your local tobacconist is any good, im sure he can recommend a few for any new smoker.

but my fav milds:
Ashton Classic
Don Tomas
5 Vegas
La Fontana

It's been recommended many times on this board and my personal experience is that your local cigar shop should be included in your cigar smoking steps.

Check out the online retailers too. I've found most sell sampler packs of between 5 - 10 cigars of various brands at pretty reasonable prices.

Most importantly, have fun!

[QUOTE]Originally posted by Ganelon:
I've wanted to step up into Cigar smoking, but am intimidated by the selections...

...as a fellow pipe smoker, I can assure you that the number of possible tabbaco combination that can be concocted and thrown in a pipe, are far more expansive than what is offered in a stick. Cigar smokling is toatlly different and really great in its own right. You have received some great advice from the following posts...just remember that they're two different animals and learn to enjoy them both...I sure do

A good introductory smoke would be a Macanudo Hyde Park Cafe. You can determine the size you prefer but it is a milder smoke and will smoke well. My suggestion to you is to buy a variety of sticks and determine what YOU prefer. Write down what you preferred and and what aspects of that cigar you liked. I would say visit your local tobacconist and they will point you in the right direction.