Stepping into the world of cigars for the first time can feel overwhelming — and understandably so. With so many different shapes, sizes, wrappers, and strengths to choose from, knowing where to start is half the journey. Whether you’re exploring cigars out of curiosity or looking to develop a new hobby, the key is to begin with the right information and a supportive, knowledgeable environment.
If you’re new to cigar smoking and want personalized guidance, visiting a reputable cigar shop in Falls Church, VA, is a great place to start. At Old Virginia Tobacco Co., our team is passionate about helping first-time cigar enthusiasts find the perfect smoke while offering expert advice every step of the way. This guide to buying cigar essentials will give you everything you need to feel confident in your first purchase — and set the stage for an enjoyable cigar experience.
Understanding Cigar Basics
Before you purchase your first cigar, it’s important to understand the core components that define your smoking experience:
1. Size and Shape (Vitola)
Length and Ring Gauge
Cigar sizes are determined by their length in inches and their ring gauge, a measurement of thickness expressed in 64ths of an inch. For newcomers to cigars, the size of the cigar affects both how long it burns and the intensity of the smoke.
Smoke Duration
- Petit Corona: ~20 minutes
- Toro: ~45 minutes
- Churchill: ~90 minutes
Shape Matters
Most beginners start with parejos — straight-sided cigars that burn evenly and predictably. Avoid oddly shaped cigars until you’re more experienced.
Beginner Pick
A Toro is an ideal starting point — not too long, not too short, and it gives you time to enjoy the flavor without feeling rushed.
2. Strength and Body
The strength of a cigar indicates how much nicotine it contains and is usually categorized as mild, medium, or strong. It’s not the same as flavor. A cigar can have a full-bodied flavor but still be mild in strength.
- Mild Strength: Best for beginners. Smooth and less likely to cause dizziness or nausea.
- Medium Strength: Offers more complexity and flavor while still being approachable.
- Full Strength: Best for seasoned smokers; may overwhelm beginners.
Beginner Pick
Start with mild- or medium-strength cigars and build up as your palate matures.
3. Wrapper Color
The outer wrapper leaf greatly influences the cigar’s overall flavor profile. Lighter wrappers tend to be milder, while darker ones are often bolder.
- Connecticut Shade (light tan): Offers a creamy, smooth flavor, making it an excellent choice for beginners.
- Cameroon wrappers offer a mild to medium flavor with a slight sweetness and spice.
- Maduro wrappers (dark) provide a bold, rich taste, often with sweet undertones, making them more suitable for those with some experience.
Beginner Pick
Connecticut Shade (light tan) cigars offer a creamy, smooth taste, making them ideal for beginners.
4. Construction Quality
A well-constructed cigar will draw easily and burn evenly. Look for:
- No soft spots or lumps
- Consistent color and shape
- Smooth seams and a clean cap
At Old Virginia Tobacco Co., every cigar is hand-selected, and our staff is trained to help you identify top-tier construction — another reason to trust your neighborhood cigar shop in Falls Church, VA.
How Much Should Your First Cigar Cost?
Cigars range from a few dollars to several hundred — even thousands. As a beginner, it’s not necessary to splurge on premium cigars right away.
Ideal Starter Price: Look for cigars in the $7–$12 range to begin with. These are often handcrafted, high-quality smokes that won’t break the bank but still offer a great experience.
Once you’re more familiar with cigars, you might enjoy sampling premium options that offer richer, more intricate flavor combinations. For now, it’s more important to focus on flavor, comfort, and burn quality than rarity or prestige.
Top Cigar Recommendations for First-Time Smokers
If you’re just beginning your cigar journey, starting with the right cigar can make all the difference. At our cigar shop in Falls Church, VA, we take pride in helping first-time smokers discover quality cigars that are smooth, flavorful, and enjoyable without being overpowering. Here are three beginner-friendly cigars we regularly recommend at our Falls Church location:
1. Ashton Classic
- Strength: Mild
- Wrapper: Connecticut Shade
- Origin: Dominican Republic
- Flavor Notes: Creamy, smooth, and slightly nutty
The Ashton Classic is one of the most highly regarded entry-level cigars available. Its mild strength and smooth finish make it a perfect choice for either a relaxing morning smoke or a quiet evening unwind. This cigar is an excellent introduction for beginners who want a relaxing, approachable smoke without any harshness. With its gentle strength and smooth, creamy character, it’s an ideal choice for a relaxing start to the day or a low-key evening session.
2. Arturo Fuente Hemingway Classic Maduro
- Strength: Medium
- Wrapper: Connecticut Broadleaf Maduro
- Origin: Dominican Republic
- Flavor Notes: Rich sweetness layered with delicate hints of cocoa and warm cedar.
This cigar brings a touch of sweetness and depth, ideal for those who are ready to try something with a bit more character. Despite its richer flavors, it remains balanced and smooth. The Hemingway line is a favorite among both new and seasoned cigar smokers, and the Maduro wrapper adds just the right hint of richness without tipping into full-bodied territory. If you’re looking to explore beyond the mild spectrum, this is a great next step.
3. Oliva Connecticut Reserve Toro
- Strength: Mild-Medium
- Wrapper: Connecticut Shade
- Origin: Nicaragua
- Flavor Notes: Toasty, creamy, and nutty with subtle spice
The Oliva Connecticut Reserve Toro strikes a perfect balance between approachability and complexity. It has just enough spice to intrigue the palate without overwhelming it, making it ideal for new smokers who want a touch more excitement. With a smooth draw and a long, satisfying finish, it’s one of the most popular beginner cigars on the market.
What to Expect at a Cigar Shop
When you visit a cigar shop in Falls Church, VA, like Old Virginia Tobacco Co., here’s what you can expect:
- A climate-controlled walk-in humidor is used to store cigars at ideal humidity and temperature levels, ensuring they stay fresh and flavorful.
- A wide variety of cigars arranged by brand, strength, and size
- Expert staff who can recommend cigars based on your taste and budget
- Accessories like cutters, lighters, and humidors
Pro Tip: Don’t be shy about asking questions. Our tobacconists love introducing newcomers to cigars and can help match you with the perfect smoke.
Enjoying Your First Cigar: A Step-by-Step Beginner’s Experience
Smoking a cigar is more than just lighting up—it’s a moment to slow down, unwind, and enjoy the ritual. For first-time smokers, understanding the proper way to handle, light, and enjoy your cigar can significantly enhance the experience. Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to help you get the most out of your first smoke:
1. Cut Carefully
Use a quality straight cutter or a guillotine cutter to remove the cap at the head of the cigar (the closed end you place in your mouth). Aim to cut just above the shoulder line of the cigar—cutting too deep can cause it to unravel and negatively affect the draw. If you’re unsure, our staff at Old Virginia Tobacco Co. will be happy to demonstrate the correct technique in person.
2. Toast the Foot
Lightly warm the open end of your cigar—known as the foot—using a wooden match or butane lighter before taking your first puff. Keep the flame near the cigar’s foot without letting it make direct contact to ensure an even, smooth light. Rotate it slowly so the edges toast evenly. This process helps prime the tobacco and ensures an even light once you begin smoking.
3. Take Slow Puffs
Cigar smoke is meant to be savored in the mouth, not drawn into the lungs like cigarette smoke. Instead, draw the smoke gently into your mouth, savor the flavors, and then release. Think of it as tasting, not smoking. A good puff every 30 to 60 seconds keeps the cigar lit without overheating it. This slower pace helps you enjoy the subtleties of the tobacco and prevents bitterness from overheating.
4. Let It Burn Naturally
Resist the urge to tap the ash too often. A firm ash often indicates good cigar craftsmanship and can help maintain an even burn by acting as insulation. Let the cigar maintain its natural rhythm—if it goes out, don’t worry. Simply relight it with care. And remember, there’s no need to rush. The joy of cigar smoking lies in the ritual and relaxation, not rushing to the end.
Pairing Ideas (Non-Alcoholic Options)
While many enjoy cigars with a drink, we avoid alcohol in-store. That said, cigars pair wonderfully with non-alcoholic beverages:
- Coffee or espresso—enhances earthy notes
- Sparkling water—resets your palate between puffs
- Pairing darker cigars with a sweet drink like cola or root beer can enhance and balance the rich flavors.
Visit Old Virginia Tobacco Co. Today
If you’re ready to explore cigars in a welcoming, expert environment, we invite you to stop by our cigar shop in Falls Church, VA. Our team will walk you through every step, from selecting the right cigar to offering tips on how to cut, light, and enjoy it.
At Old Virginia Tobacco Co., you’re not just buying a cigar —you’re becoming part of a time-honored tradition. Let us help you discover your new favorite smoke. Call us at (703) 536-5588 or explore our selection through our online shop.
Whether you’re new to cigars or a seasoned enthusiast, we’re here to make every experience memorable — because at Old Virginia Tobacco Co., it’s not just a cigar, it’s a cigar experience.