The 10 Best Cigars for Beginners — Chosen From Our Collection
Whether you're lighting up for the first time or buying a gift for someone who is, choosing the right cigar can feel overwhelming. With so many sizes, origins, and flavour profiles to navigate, it's easy to reach for the wrong one.
The good news? We've done the hard work for you. Here are the 10 best cigars for beginners from our collection at Bourbon Blackpool — all chosen for their mild profiles, approachable formats, and sheer enjoyment from the very first draw.
1. Romeo y Julieta Puritos
Short, mild, and utterly elegant — the Puritos is the perfect entry point into Cuban cigars. It's a quick smoke with a smooth, creamy finish that won't intimidate. Think of it as the espresso of the cigar world.
2. Montecristo Shorts Cuban Cigar
The Montecristo name is synonymous with quality, and the Shorts format is tailor-made for newcomers. A manageable length with a refined, classic Cuban character — earthy, creamy, and consistently excellent.
3. Montecristo Medias Coronas Cuban Cigar
Step up slightly from the Shorts and you'll find the Medias Coronas — a touch more body and complexity, but still beautifully smooth. A natural second cigar for anyone who's enjoyed the Shorts.
4. H. Upmann Corona Major Tubos Cuban Cigar
Packaged in an individual tubo for freshness, the Corona Major rom H. Upmann is a well-balanced, mild Cuban that's ideal for beginners. Notes of cedar, cream, and a hint of sweetness make this one deeply satisfying.
5. Quintero Panetelas Cuban Cigar
An underrated gem in the Cuban lineup. The Quintero Panetelas is light, easy to draw, and affordable — making it a brilliant "everyday" cigar for someone still finding their feet. Don't overlook it.
6. José Piedra Brevas Cuban Cigar
One of Cuba's most accessible and wallet-friendly cigars, the Brevas from José Piedra delivers a mild, earthy smoke without breaking the bank. It's honest, unfussy, and a fantastic starting point for any newcomer.
7. El Rey del Mundo Demi Tasse Cuban Cigar
Tiny in size but big on charm. The Demi Tasse is one of the mildest Cubans available — slightly sweet, quick to smoke, and endlessly enjoyable. If you're nervous about committing to a full cigar, start here.
8. Partagas Club Cuban Cigars
Partagas is a bold brand, but the Club format keeps things approachable. This small cigarillo-style smoke gives you a taste of the Partagas flavour profile — woody, spicy, and rich — without overwhelming a first-time palate.
9. Oliva Flor de Oliva Connecticut Toro Cigar
Not all great beginner cigars are Cuban. This Connecticut-wrapped Nicaraguan from Oliva is creamy, mild, and beautifully constructed. It's the kind of cigar you could happily smoke every weekend without ever getting bored.
10. Macanudo White Inspirado Robusto Sample Pack (3 Cigars)
If you're not sure where to start, a sampler is your best friend. The Macanudo White Inspirado pack gives you three refined, mild smokes to enjoy at your own pace — perfect for the absolute beginner or as a thoughtful gift.
A Few Tips for First-Time Smokers
- Start small. Shorter cigars are easier to manage and less intense.
- Don't inhale. Cigar smoke is meant to be savoured in the mouth, not drawn into the lungs.
- Pair wisely. A mild coffee, light rum, or still water works beautifully with beginner cigars.
- Take your time. A good cigar is never rushed.
Ready to explore? Browse our full collection at Bourbon Blackpool and find your perfect first smoke.