Beginner's Guide to Cuban Cigars: Sizes, Strengths & How to Choose Your First
So you've decided to explore the world of Cuban cigars — welcome to one of life's great pleasures. Whether you've been gifted one, spotted them at a special occasion, or simply want to understand what all the fuss is about, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know as a beginner.
Why Cuban Cigars?
Cuba has been producing cigars for centuries, and the country's unique combination of climate, soil (particularly in the Vuelta Abajo region), and generations of skilled torcedores (cigar rollers) produces tobacco that is widely regarded as the finest in the world. Cuban cigars carry a prestige that no other origin can quite match — and once you've tried one, you'll understand why.
Understanding Cigar Sizes
Cigars come in a bewildering array of sizes, but they all boil down to two measurements: length (in inches) and ring gauge (diameter measured in 64ths of an inch). Here are the most common formats you'll encounter:
- Petit Corona – Around 4.5 inches with a ring gauge of 42. A great starting point — short enough to finish in 30–40 minutes, with a concentrated flavour.
- Corona – The classic format at around 5.5 inches. Balanced and approachable, ideal for beginners.
- Robusto – Shorter and thicker (around 5 inches, ring gauge 50). Very popular because the wider gauge delivers a fuller, creamier smoke.
- Churchill – A grand 7-inch cigar for those with time to spare. Complex and evolving flavours throughout the smoke.
- Lancero / Laguito No.1 – Long and thin, these are for experienced smokers who appreciate elegance and subtlety.
Beginner tip: Start with a Petit Corona or Robusto. They're manageable in length and deliver great flavour without overwhelming you.
Understanding Strength
Cigar strength refers to the nicotine impact, not the flavour complexity. Cigars are broadly categorised as:
- Mild – Smooth, creamy, and easy on the palate. Perfect for beginners. Look for brands like Romeo y Julieta or Vegueros.
- Medium – A step up in body and complexity. Montecristo sits comfortably here.
- Full – Rich, bold, and powerful. Brands like Cohiba and Punch can venture into full-strength territory.
As a beginner, always start mild to medium. Smoking a full-strength cigar on an empty stomach can cause dizziness — not the experience you're after!
How to Choose Your First Cuban Cigar
Here's a simple framework for picking your first cigar:
- Set a time budget. Have 45 minutes? Go for a Petit Corona. Have 90 minutes? A Robusto or Corona is perfect.
- Start mild. Choose a well-known, approachable brand. Our Blackbird Corona Sampler is an excellent way to try several styles without committing to a full box.
- Don't rush. A cigar should be smoked slowly — about one puff per minute. Let it rest between draws.
- Pair it simply. A glass of water, a light coffee, or a mild whisky are all great companions for your first smoke.
Our Top Picks for Beginners
If you're ready to take the plunge, here are some of our favourite entry-level Cuban cigars available at Bourbon Blackpool:
- Montecristo 5 Puritos – Small, mild, and perfectly formed. Ideal for a first-timer.
- Romeo y Julieta Petit Julietas – Elegant and smooth, a classic introduction to Cuban tobacco.
- Jose L. Piedra Petit Cazadores – An affordable, rustic Cuban that punches well above its price point.
- Blackbird Corona Sampler – Six different cigars to explore a range of styles and strengths.
Final Thoughts
The world of Cuban cigars is vast and endlessly rewarding. Don't feel pressured to understand everything at once — the joy is in the journey. Start simple, smoke slowly, and let your palate develop over time. Before long, you'll be distinguishing between a Montecristo No.4 and a Romeo y Julieta No.2 with ease.
Browse our full range of Cuban cigars available to buy in the UK and feel free to get in touch if you'd like a personal recommendation.