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Like any new hobby, knowing where to begin when it comes to cigar smoking can sometimes be a little daunting. If you have decided you would like to join the wonderful world of cigar smoking, then one of the biggest hurdles can be deciding which cigar is the right one to make your first time enjoyable! As this is such an important yet difficult decision, we have put together our guide to the top ten cigars perfectly suited to new smokers.
As a newcomer, you probably won’t be fully aware of what makes a great starter cigar. It can be difficult to know what to look for when selecting what to begin with, and with so many brands, wrappers, colours, smells and sizes, trying to make a decision unaided can prove a little overwhelming. However, it is all of these factors that make a cigar so special and luxurious, and over time, you will learn not only to differentiate between them but also which ones are your favourites!
To help you get started on your stogie journey, we have put together what we consider to be the top ten cigars for smokers new to the cigar world!
Made solely from tobacco, cigars tend to be significantly stronger than what you may be used to from cigarettes or pipes. Rather than jumping straight into the deep end, it is important to start off with a light and mild yet flavourful stogie, which is perfect for beginners, such as the ones below.
The Cohiba Siglo I Cigar was introduced in 1992 to celebrate the 500th anniversary of Colombus’ discovery of the New World!
The Cohiba Siglo I cigar itself is a tiny Corona and is very similar in taste to the other coronas in the Siglo line. The Siglo I’s flavour profile consists of a creamy sweetness, to begin with, followed by coffee bean and mocha flavours with a medium tobacco taste.
Montecristo is a premium cigar brand with some truly exceptional cigars on offer in its collection. The No.2 is often considered to be the world’s best cigar, and the No. 4 is a best seller around the world, so the Montecristo No. 3 is certainly in good company.
While Montecristo is generally more tailored to the experienced cigar fan, the Montecristo No. 3 is one of the milder stogies in their range. These cigars guarantee a good draw and burn evenly, making it an uncomplicated smoke, with great coffee flavours.
The Davidoff Winston Churchill Petit Panetela The Raconteur Cigar can be enjoyed in around 20 minutes, making this a short smoke ideal for newcomers as well as time-restricted seasoned pros. As a Petit Panetela, it is a shorter and thinner format that makes a great choice for newbies.
The cigar has a smooth and creamy texture, with soft notes of cedar, light spice, and a touch of sweetness to start. As it progresses, notes of earth, coffee, and cream develop, with the flavours evolving gently, offering a sophisticated smoking experience.
The draw is smooth and the burn even, allowing for a leisurely and satisfying smoke, perfect for new cigar smokers, as it won’t give you any trouble.
A budget-friendly option for those who don’t want to splash out when trying cigars for the first time, the Juliany Corojo Corona Cigar is a fantastic choice for both novice smokers and aficionados alike. With a short smoke time, mild strength, and fresh taste, these are ideal for new cigar smokers.
An exclusive to Havana House in the UK, the ADVentura The Explorer Short Robusto is an exciting blend that offers notes of spice and chocolate, with an overall sweetness. The Dominican and Ecuadorian tobaccos that are used in this cigar have been aged for between 5 and 7 years, developing a well-rounded flavour. The cigar has a medium-bodied strength, which gives it an approachable yet satisfying depth, that makes it suitable for both novice smokers and seasoned connoisseurs alike.
The Partagas Petit Corona Especiales packs a mighty punch and a delicious flavour profile that is a great cigar to light up in the early evening with a good cup of coffee.
Partagas are loved the world over, as not only does the brand produce an exquisite range of well-blended and complex cigars, but the founder, Jaime Partagas, is responsible for developing the maturation method of tobacco that has been adopted by most Cuban cigar brands today!
When you’re just starting out with cigars, you probably don’t want to be dedicating hours of your time to a smoke – you want something short and sweet to test the waters!
The H. Upmann Half Corona is the perfect one for this, taking only around 30 minutes to smoke from start to finish. Within this shorter cigar is a well-balanced and flavourful smoke.
You’ll start with sweet, floral notes that offer creamy hints, which develop into coffee notes as you smoke it. It is complex, with a great draw, making it a fantastic smoke for new and experienced smokers alike.
A fresh, light and gentle cigar, the Montecristo Open J Cigar is a fine option for those seeking a beginner’s smoke from one of the best Cuban cigar brands. Montecristo is typically known for punchier, bold and strong smokes, so this medium-strength option offers a gentler experience for novice smokers. Measuring only 4 3/8″ x 38, this will be a quicker smoke, which can be appreciated by newer smokers.
The Punch Petit Coronations cigar is mild in flavour and strength, with woody and fruity notes present throughout. It is a delightful smoke for all experiences, but its mildness makes it perfectly suited to beginners.
This beautiful little cigar is the perfect smoke for when time is of the essence, featuring a Connecticut wrapper and a blend of Dominican and Honduran long-fillers that give way to flavours of spice, cedar and vanilla.
The Camacho Machitos Orange Connecticut Cigars have the exact blends as their larger counterparts and are available in Connecticut, Corojo, and Criollo. Pick up a pack and take them on your next weekend away – we personally take them on our camping trips, and as the weather warms up, there’s no excuse for you not to do the same!
You can buy all of these cigars for beginners online here at Havana House, or check out more of our recommended cigars for the start of your cigar journey here. Need help with how to smoke your first cigars? Check out our guide to cigars for beginners:
Chateau Diadem is a young yet impressive luxury cigar brand created by Emily Sahakian and Thierry Farah, known for its modern aesthetic and its collaboration with renowned blender Eladio Díaz.
The Splendor Robusto Extra is Díaz’s latest creation for the brand. It features a Dominican Corojo wrapper, a Mexican binder, and five carefully selected Dominican filler leaves. The result is an elegant and balanced cigar that showcases depth, refinement, and the signature complexity associated with Eladio Díaz’s world-renowned blending style.
This month, the Chateau Diadem Splendor Robusto Extra is our cigar of the month for December. Read our review below and be sure to order it this month to enjoy the cigar at our discounted price!
Blender: Eladio Díaz
Factory: Chateau Diadem
Origin: Dominican Republic
Wrapper: Dominican Corojo
Binder: Mexico
Filler: Dominican (five-leaf blend)
Strength: Medium
Size: Robusto Extra (5 1/2″ x 52)
Reviewed by: Ross from the Windsor shop
The Splendor opens with smooth notes of cedar, gentle spice, and a light natural sweetness. The retrohale highlights toasted nuts with a touch of soft earth. About an inch in, subtle creaminess begins to weave into the profile, rounding out the cedar and adding an appealing silky texture. As the first third concludes, cedar leads the way, supported by mild earth and hints of vanilla sweetness, with the spice settling in softly at the edges. The strength sits at a solid medium.
As the second third begins, cedar and earth sit evenly at the forefront, joined by developing notes of roasted nuts and soft cocoa. The retrohale mirrors this evolution, offering a balanced mix of wood, nuttiness, and a mild pepper accent. Around the midpoint, the flavour profile deepens with coffee and richer wood tones. The creaminess remains but becomes more subtle, allowing the darker flavours to take the lead. Strength holds steady at medium.
In the final third, the cigar becomes more robust, with leather and espresso moving forward. Pepper gains slightly in presence but never overwhelms. By the one-inch mark, a touch of roasted bitterness appears, adding contrast to the lingering sweetness from earlier. The retrohale shifts toward deeper earth and toasted wood. As the cigar closes, cedar and leather sit at the forefront, with pepper in the background and a refined earthiness carrying through to the finish. Strength remains medium.
Construction is excellent throughout. The burn line stays even with firm ash and a cool temperature. Smoke output is satisfying and consistent. The draw is smooth, offering the ideal balance of resistance and airflow.
The Chateau Diadem Splendor Robusto Extra delivers a refined and evolving flavour profile from start to finish. Its balance of cedar, spice, earth, cocoa, and coffee shows impressive harmony, with each third offering something distinct yet cohesive. The craftsmanship is exceptional, making the entire smoking experience enjoyable, structured, and polished. This is a cigar that rewards slow smoking and attention to detail.
Ross Rating: 8/10
A glass of Glendronach 12 Year Old Sherry Cask Matured Highland Single Malt Scotch Whisky would make an excellent pairing with the Chateau Diadem Splendor Robusto Extra. Glendronach 12 Year Old, matured in Oloroso and Pedro Ximénez casks, delivers rich notes of raisins, spiced orange, gingerbread, and a touch of tiramisu—an ideal after-dinner dram.
It would pair excellently with Fever-Tree Ginger Ale. Its light sweetness and mild spice refresh the palate without overshadowing the cigar.
Absolutely. I would gladly smoke another, especially when I want a well-balanced, nuanced Dominican cigar crafted with genuine artistry.
Arturo Fuente cigars trace their origins to 1912, when Cuban émigré Arturo Fuente founded A. Fuente & Co. in West Tampa, Florida. After a devastating factory fire in 1924 halted production for over two decades, the brand was revived by Fuente and later expanded under his son, Carlos Fuente Sr., who established production in the Dominican Republic and built a reputation for exceptional craftsmanship and consistency.
Among the company’s most beloved creations is the Flor Fina 8-5-8, introduced in 1975 in memory of Arturo Fuente, who had passed away at the age of 85—hence the name “8-5-8.”
The cigar, typically wrapped in African Cameroon leaf with Dominican filler and binder, is renowned for its balanced, medium-bodied flavour of cedar, nuts, and gentle spice. It remains a staple of the Fuente portfolio, symbolising both the family’s heritage and its dedication to quality.
Read our review of the Arturo Fuente Gran Reserva Flor Fina 8‑5‑8 below, or order it now to try it out for yourself!
Blender: Arturo Fuente
Factory: Tabacalera A. Fuente y Cia
Origin: Dominican Republic
Wrapper: African Cameroon
Binder: Dominican
Filler: Dominican
Strength: Medium
Size: 6 ¼” x 47 (Corona Grande)
Reviewed by: Ross from the Windsor shop
Lighting up the 8-5-8 reveals a creamy, aromatic smoke with light wood, hay, and nutty nuances. There is a delicate touch of citrus sweetness on the palate, adding freshness to the opening. The cigar produces excellent smoke output right from the start, offering an approachable yet flavourful introduction. Its loose roll encourages a slow, gentle draw, rewarding the smoker with smooth, cool flavours.
As the cigar settles into the middle third, it begins to open up beautifully. Mellow notes of dark cedar, roasted cashew, and a subtle cocoa richness develop, accompanied by a faint cherry sweetness that lingers on the tongue. The texture becomes silkier, and the balance between sweet and earthy elements shines through. The construction remains excellent, with a razor-sharp burn and a long, solid ash, proof of Fuente’s meticulous attention to detail.
In the final third, the profile deepens slightly, offering soft leather and earth tones while maintaining its signature smoothness. The sweetness tapers off gently, leaving a refined, dry finish that is perfectly balanced. A light spice re-emerges, more reminiscent of nutmeg than pepper, closing the cigar with warmth and grace. There is no bitterness or harshness, just a steady, satisfying evolution from start to finish.
Flawless construction ensures an even burn and effortless draw throughout the smoke. It performs beautifully without relights or touch-ups, producing cool, creamy smoke all the way down.
The Arturo Fuente Gran Reserva Flor Fina 8-5-8 Natural is a masterpiece of smoothness and subtlety. Its elegant profile of wood, nut, cream, and cocoa makes it the perfect choice for both newcomers and seasoned aficionados seeking a relaxing, classic smoke. Whether enjoyed in the morning with coffee or as an evening companion, it is a cigar that fits any occasion.
Ross Rating: 9/10
A glass of Santiago de Cuba 12 Year Old Extra Añejo Cuban Rum would make an excellent pairing with the Arturo Fuente Gran Reserva Flor Fina 8‑5‑8. The rich notes of dark chocolate, vanilla, and gentle spice in this rum harmonise beautifully with the cigar’s creamy cedar and nutty tones.
It would pair excellently with a non-alcoholic mojito, offering refreshing citrus and mint flavours that enhance the cigar’s natural sweetness and balance.
Absolutely. The Fuente 8-5-8 is a cigar every enthusiast should experience at least once; it is timeless, balanced, and full of flavour.
Gift shopping is rarely a simple task, but there are certainly ways to make the experience easier. Follow our guide to finding the right cigar gifts for your loved ones, based on the type of cigar smoker they are.
If you’d like to offer the gift of a delicious smoke to a friend who hasn’t enjoyed the delights of a cigar before, there are plenty of gift options for the cigar novice.
It’s probably best not to launch them straight into the world with a big box of Cubans; they likely won’t know what they like yet, or if it’s a habit they want to maintain!
Instead, treat them to a single cigar or two from a top brand, allowing them to get a taste for high-quality smokes. You can take a look at our best cigars for beginners collection for inspiration.
Alternatively, a gift set that includes a cigar can be a wonderful choice, such as our Partagas Serie E No.2 & Hine Cigar Reserve Gift Box. This set contains Hine Cigar Reserve XO Cognac and a Partagas Serie E No.2 cigar for a perfect pairing experience, as well as a tasting glass, cigar cutter and matches.
This gift set is ideal for those who haven’t smoked cigars before, as they can still enjoy the wonderful Hine Cognac if they don’t find they enjoy cigar smoking! Plus, with a cigar cutter and matches included, the new recruit to cigar smoking will have all the kit they need to get started!
If you’re buying a gift for someone who has recently taken up cigar smoking, then you’ll have many options when it comes to picking a present.
Newbies to the world of cigars will have a lot of taste testing ahead of them to find out what kind of cigars they like best and are willing to invest more money into.
Something like The Freud & El Septimo Robusto Gift Box Selection is a great choice for cigar newbies, as alongside these two fantastic New World Cigars is a stylish Angelo Greek Ceramic 2 Cigar Ashtray, a Havana House Single Jet Flame Lighter, and a German-made Havana House single-action guillotine Cigar Cutter, providing all the accessories they need to enhance their smoking experience.
Alternatively, a mix of cigars to try will be a great choice, and if you’re not sure what to pick, then we’ve got a collection of assortments to pick from!
A cigar enthusiast is someone who has been smoking cigars for some time – although they may not have decided on a favourite cigar yet.
Not one to settle for a mediocre smoke, a cigar enthusiast can be somewhat tricky to buy for, as they’re always looking for the next best smoke. As someone who likes to sample a wide range of different smokes in search of ‘the one’, a selection pack of cigars is an ideal gift for a cigar enthusiast.
Our Prime Picks Cigar Selection is an ideal choice, as it contains four cigars that are selected for their special character and are normally rare or hard to find.
The selection contains:
While you may think that finding a cigar-related present for a collector is a particularly difficult task, it doesn’t actually need to be that hard!
Look for specially launched cigars, such as Limited Edition, Edicion Regional and Anniversary smokes. Here at Havana House, we have a wide selection of rare, aged and vintage cigars that you can choose from, including the Cohiba Majestuosos 1966 Humidor!
The Partagas Linea Maestra Gift Box of 3 Cigars is another excellent choice for collectors. This selection is the first to exclusively feature tobacco from the San Luis plantations in the Vuelta Abajo region of Pinar del Río, making it a unique and exciting choice.
The Maestra line stands out due to its craftsmanship, meticulously honed and passed down through generations. Each cigar reflects the brand’s signature character while delivering a rich and varied experience. The cigars in the Maestra line are aromatically complex, with skilfully balanced flavours and intricate tasting notes.
The selection includes:
If you’d rather steer away from buying cigars, then why not opt for a humidor? All cigar collectors need great humidors to keep their collection safe at the precise conditions required to ensure cigars taste their best. It will certainly go to good use, allowing your loved one to expand or organise their collection further.
Buying a gift for someone who knows everything there is to know about cigars can seem like an impossible task. But we have some really exciting cigars at Havana House that even the most seasoned aficionado will be thrilled with!
We think it’s hard to go wrong with a Robusto, so this stunning tube of five Chateau Diadem Conviction Robusto Cigars is a fantastic choice! The Chateau Diadem Conviction Robusto is a complex and generous cigar with a richly flavoured palate of aromas that evolve throughout. This gift presents five of these excellent smokes in a beautiful tube.
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If you’re still stumped as to what to buy your cigar-loving friend, or you would rather they could choose their own cigar to smoke, then why not present them with a gift card?!
Here at Havana House, we offer an online gift voucher. You can choose the amount you want on the voucher, in multiple different values from £10 to £100. The voucher is digital, so it can be printed out and given to your friend in a card, or emailed over if you are unable to visit them.
Check out the rest of our gift guide for more present ideas for your cigar-loving loved one!
Soon it will be Christmas, and in the run-up to that are a whole host of fun festive activities, meeting up with close friends for a Christmas drink, late-night shopping and the work Christmas party! The latter also means the dreaded Secret Santa presents, which could mean you snare the guy from accounting that you know absolutely nothing about.
There is no need to fret! Here at Havana House, we have a great selection of cigar gifts to suit all budgets; from £5 to £20, there is something for everybody. Below you will find some of our favourite gifts to treat one of your colleagues to this Christmas:
The point of Secret Santa tends to be cheap and cheerful gifts, so this affordable cigar option from Henri Wintermans is the perfect choice for cigar lovers or those who want to experience a Christmas smoke.
Henri Wintermans Tubed Coronas Deluxe Sumatra is a small cigar made from a blend of the finest tobacco leaves from Cuba, Colombia, and Indonesia. A well-constructed machine-made cigar with a balanced flavour, delicious aroma, and smooth draw, the Coronas Deluxe Sumatra offers a sweet but mild smoke, ideal for a quick and relaxing experience.
Cuban cigars are known for being pricey, but luckily, there are some affordable options that would make ideal Secret Santa presents. Romeo y Julieta is a premium cigar brand that is very popular, so you’re getting great value for money.
The Petit Julieta offers a complex mix of flavours that stays light in strength, with a mild and smooth smoking experience. As you puff, subtle notes of earthy flavours and smoked leather present themselves, with hints of spiciness appearing towards the end.
Perfect for novices and enthusiasts alike, this cigar is a great choice for Secret Santa as it can be enjoyed by those who have never smoked a cigar before, as well as by those who are already aficionados.
If you’d rather avoid directly purchasing a cigar, you can instead share the gift of tobacco scent with this luxurious shaving cream from Taylor of Old Bond Street. This distinctive tobacco fragrance is supported by tones of Bergamot & Grapefruit with subtle, lingering notes of Coffee & Leather.
A great value cigar from La Invicta, the Honduran Robusto was made from the finest tobacco from Honduras, presenting a light-medium strength smoke with a spicy, yet mild, sweet taste.
The Robusto is a great size, measuring 5 inches with a 50 ring gauge. The light flavour, milder strength and manageable size make this a fantastic cigar for both cigar newbies and experienced smokers. The tubed packaging of this cigar makes it an ideal gift, as it adds a sleek touch to the cigar, while providing protection, allowing it to be taken out to parties and on the go.
Smoking a cigar can be made even better with a lovely dram of whisky, so this trio of miniature bottle single malt whiskies from The Isle of Jura Distillery is a great gift pack that will allow aficionados to try out some sips with their smokes. This pack of 3 5cl miniatures includes Isle of Jura Journey, Isle of Jura Reserve 10 Years Old and Isle of Jura Seven Wood.
Haven’t found the perfect gift yet? Take a look at our recommended cigar gift sets for every type of smoker. While you’re at it, why not buy cigars online or in-store from us and light one up after the boss picks up the dinner cheque?!
Christmas lights are starting to brighten up the dark skies, and our hats and scarves are out for good; the festive period has officially begun! In this chilly weather, there isn’t much we enjoy more than cosying up by the fire with our favourite pipe, so why not gift one to your loved ones?
You don’t have to worry about beating the Christmas rush or what to buy, as we have compiled a list of the very best pipes for you to buy this festive season!
For a classic Christmas:
If you’re seeking a Christmas-specific pipe, the limited edition Dunhill Christmas Pipes are the first place to look. The Dunhill White Spot Maria Christmas Pipe 2013 is part of the 12-year theme The Nutcracker and the Mouse King, which began in 2011 and was completed in 2022. It is based on the characters of the children’s book The Nutcracker and the Mouse King and the famous ballet The Nutcracker.
The 2013 pipe is the third in the series and depicts Maria Stahlbaum, who owns the Nutcracker and with whom she experiences the most wondrous and exciting adventures. The pipe has a Shell Briar finish and features a Sterling Silver band intricately engraved with scrollwork and the name Maria.
The set also comes with a solid Sterling Silver pipe tamper, which depicts Maria holding her beloved Nutcracker in her arms. This is a highly collectable pipe set, with only 300 of each pipe worldwide. It comes with a numbered, limited edition certificate.
For the consulting detective:
When it comes to iconic pipe silhouettes, there are none more well-known than the Sherlock Holmes pipe! The Peterson Sherlock Holmes Original Sandblasted P-Lip Pipe is a tribute to the legendary detective, featuring a full-bodied pipe that captures the essence of Victorian elegance with its large, curved bowl and long, smooth stem.
Peterson is known for their exceptional craftsmanship; this pipe is made from premium briar wood with a sandblasted finish and features a P-Lip mouthpiece, which directs smoke upward, reducing tongue bite for a smoother, more enjoyable draw.
Whether you’re a fan of the consulting detective, a collector, or a lover of well-crafted pipes, the Peterson Sherlock Holmes Original Sandblasted P-Lip Pipe is the perfect blend of function and classic design, offering historical homage and expert craftsmanship.
For the casual collector:
If you’re after a pipe beautiful enough to display, but without the hefty price tag, a Savinelli pipe is a fantastic choice. The Savinelli Avorio Burgundy Pipe showcases Italian excellence with its flawless, smooth finish in rich burgundy, thanks to the premium Mediterranean briar’s natural beauty. These pipes are fantastically crafted and present a perfect blend of form and function, making them ideal for both collectors and daily smokers seeking a superior smoking experience alike.
For fans of Shakespeare:
Creating some of the most famous plays in history and forever changing the English language, it’s hard not to be a fan of William Shakespeare!
To celebrate the 450 year jubilee of Shakespeare’s birth, Dunhill White Spot have created a pipe to commemorate the playwright, which comes with a solid Sterling silver tamper shaped like a writing quill in an inkwell – similar to what he would have used to write his beloved plays. The Dunhill White Spot William Shakespeare Limited Edition Cumberland Pipe itself also features a metal band engraved with Shakespeare’s signature.
For the stocking filler:
If you’re after something more cheap and cheerful for a stocking filler or Secret Santa gift, then the Missouri Meerschaum 690 Legend Bent Corn Cob Pipe is an ideal choice. These classic Corn Cob pipes were made famous by Popeye and are crafted from real corn cobs, which have been dried for up to 2 years.
They can actually be smoked and offer a fairly cool smoke with a natural sweetness. Corn cob pipes are naturally porous, which allows the pipe to breathe while smoking.
For the collector:
For the pipe collector, the Dunhill White Spot Namiki Quail Billiard Pipe is a must. The detailing of the artwork on this Billiard Pipe is incredible, with each pipe handmade using the traditional Japanese art method of Hira Maki-e.
The pipe features the image of a quail, on a jet-black lacquered base, with a gold-plated accent. Only 100 of these pipes have been created, with this one being the 87th.
If you’re looking for more present ideas, check out Havana House for the best pipe Christmas presents that you can buy this year. Not found the perfect gift yet? Check out our Christmas Gift Guide for more inspiration.
It’s the most wonderful time of the year! Whether you want to give the gift of a fine cigar, or find that perfect smoke for your own merry Christmas morning, Havana House is here with an expertly crafted shortlist of our best cigars for Christmas gifts for you and your cigar-smoking loved ones this holiday season.
Whatever your budget, buying from this exquisite selection of Christmas cigars will give you longer to relax and properly enjoy those finer things in life.
We have a lot of fantastic cigar gift sets and bestselling choices that would make fantastic gifts for Christmas.
The Montecristo Edmundo Cigar – Single Gift Box makes the perfect present for cigar lovers. Presented in its own individual wooden gift box, the Montecristo Edmundo Cigar is an ideal gift for aficionados. It offers a medium to full-bodied smoking experience, with rich flavours of cedar, cinnamon, and spices, plus that signature Montecristo tang.
Measuring 5 1/3 inches with a robust 52 ring gauge, this is a perfect smoke for that post-Christmas dinner downtime.
We think cigars make an amazing Christmas gift, so choosing a selection will give you lots of choices for your Christmas Day smoke. With a mix of different cigars, you’ll have plenty to choose from on the special day or to share with friends and family.
Gift three incredible cigars specially selected by our in-house experts for their remarkable flavour and craftsmanship. An exceptional smoking experience awaits with these cigars, offering the pinnacle of quality and flavour, perfect for both seasoned aficionados and those new to premium cigars.
Inside are three cigars from Kristoff, El Septimo and Hiram & Solomon:
The Classic Cuban Petit Corona Cigar Selection is a specially chosen collection of four premium Cuban cigars, all offering a light to medium strength, ideal for a 30-45 minute smoke. These are ideal formats for new smokers, due to the strength and size, while aficionados will appreciate the rich, smooth flavour of these Cuban classics – perfect for unwinding.
The cigars included are:
The Best of Nicaragua Robusto Cigar Selection offers the perfect introduction to Nicaraguan cigars with a curated selection, ranging from light to full-bodied tobaccos. This is an excellent starting point for exploring premium Nicaraguan cigars. Whether you’re new to Nicaraguan smokes or looking to broaden your palate, this selection promises a rich and varied experience perfect for newbies and aficionados alike.
The selection includes:
Our Escape to the Chateau Cigar Selection lets you explore four very different vitolas with this Chateau Diadem Cigar Selection. With this selection, you’ll discover how size formats can alter the smoking experience! The cigars included are:
If you’re looking for cigar Christmas gifts this year, be sure to check out the rest of our range at Havana House to find the perfect presents!
If you know someone who is more into pipes than cigars, or maybe wants a change, be sure to take a look at our top tobacco pipes for Christmas.
If you’re still looking for that perfect gift for the men in your life, then look no further than our guide to the best grooming gifts for men to get this Christmas.
Whether they’re a cigar smoker or just love the scent of tobacco, the Tobacco Leaf luxury aftershave from Taylor of Old Bond Street is a fantastic gift option. The aftershave lotion provides a distinctive tobacco fragrance supported by notes of Bergamot and Grapefruit with subtle, lingering tones of Coffee & Leather. It is alcohol free and features a spray top atomiser for easy use.
Ideal for the frequent traveller, this compact mini Fusion razor comes housed in a luxury English-made mock-croc leather case. So whether they love adventure or are on the road for work, this travel razor could be the perfect present! The razor will take replacement Gillette Fusion blades.
For those who appreciate a good cigar, the Perfect Cigar and Royal Forest Scented Shaving Gift Box is an incredible gift option. Featuring two premium New World cigars and luxurious shaving cream with matching aftershave in Royal Forest scent from Taylors of Bond Street, it’s the perfect present for the gentlemen in your life. The set features:
A shaving soap bowl is used to lather shaving soap, creating a rich, creamy lather with your brush, and offers a more controlled and consistent lathering experience than your hands. This wooden bowl from Taylor of Old Bond Street is made from acacia wood and helps to create a fantastic lather. It is accompanied by a sandalwood shaving soap that will condition and cleanse the skin.
For a more relaxing fragrance, the Lavender Shaving Cream Bowl is a great choice. This shaving cream sees the classic Taylor’s formula infused with the calming scent of lavender. The result is a luxurious shaving cream that works into a silky-smooth lather. It contains essential oils that help to protect your skin. The floral fragrance features refreshing hints of orange and warming cedarwood, perfect for a calming start to your day.
Looking for more present inspiration? Check out our other Christmas gift ideas for men.
Tatuaje RC Series No. 2 is part of Pete Johnson’s Retro Cuba line, a collection inspired by the golden age of Cuban cigar craftsmanship. Originally launched in the U.S. in 2015, the RC Series gained an international release with new vitolas crafted exclusively outside the States.
Hand-rolled at the famed My Father Cigars factory in Estelí, Nicaragua, the No. 2 showcases meticulous construction, complete with a pigtail cap, an Ecuadorian Habano wrapper, and a Nicaraguan core. This release represents Pete Johnson and Don Pepin Garcia’s shared commitment to old-world tradition married with modern blending expertise.
Blender: Don Pepin Garcia & Pete Johnson
Factory: My Father Cigars, Estelí
Origin: Nicaragua
Wrapper: Ecuadorian Habano
Filler: Nicaraguan
Strength: Medium to Medium-Full
Size: 5 ⅝” x 54 (No. 2)
Reviewed by: Ross from the Windsor shop
The cigar opens with elegant notes of wood and toasted almonds, layered with a gentle caramel sweetness. The retrohale carries soft cedar with hints of nuttiness. About an inch in, delicate fruit-like notes appear, adding intrigue to the profile. By the close of the first third, flavours of wood and almond dominate, underpinned by a subtle caramel creaminess. Strength sits at a balanced medium.
Into the second third, the almond character mellows while a more distinct woody core takes the lead. The retrohale develops with cedar and faint fruit sweetness, offering a refined balance. Around the halfway point, the caramel note deepens, intertwining beautifully with the natural sweetness of the tobaccos. The profile remains approachable but gains complexity as strength edges slightly towards medium-full.
In the final third, the woodsy backbone becomes more pronounced, joined by darker roasted nut flavours. The fruity note lingers faintly, while the caramel sweetness transitions into a richer, more molasses-like tone. A touch of earthiness develops as the cigar winds down, with the retrohale showcasing cedar and soft spice. The finish is long, warm, and balanced, with the medium-full body holding steady until the nub.
Construction is excellent, with a steady, even burn and firm ash holding for extended intervals. The draw provides just the right amount of resistance, producing thick, aromatic smoke that enhances the tasting experience.
The Tatuaje RC Series No. 2 offers a refined and aromatic journey, weaving wood, almond, caramel, and delicate fruity sweetness into a balanced whole. This is a cigar that honours its “Retro Cuba” namesake with finesse, delivering an experience that feels classic yet contemporary. A fine example of Pete Johnson and Don Pepin’s artistry, it is both approachable for newer smokers and rewarding for seasoned aficionados.
Ross Rating: 9/10
Brugal 1888 Dominican rum would make an excellent pairing with the Tatuaje RC Series No. 2. Its rich layers of toffee, dried fruit, and gentle spice would complement the cigar’s nuanced flavour profile, while the rum’s smooth sweetness would balance the cedar, earth, and pepper notes. Together, they create a refined and harmonious experience.
It would pair excellently with Fanta Lemon.
I was impressed and would gladly smoke another when the opportunity arises.
As the air turns crisp and the evenings draw in, autumn creates the perfect atmosphere for slowing down and enjoying a fine cigar. The mellow chill of the season naturally lends itself to fuller-bodied flavours, warming aromas, and those comforting, earthy notes that complement a fireside dram or a glass of spiced rum.
Whether you’re lighting up after a long walk through the countryside or settling in for a quiet evening, autumn is the ideal time to explore cigars with depth, warmth, and character. Here are some of the best cigars to smoke this season – all readily available in the UK here at Havana House.
Origin: Cuba
Strength: Medium
For those who prefer something a little lighter but still complex, the Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure No. 2 is a fantastic autumn choice. Its creamy, floral, and subtly woody profile works beautifully as a late afternoon smoke when the autumn sun is low and golden.
It’s also an excellent transition cigar for those moving to something with more body, without diving straight into the heavy hitters.
Origin: Cuba
Strength: Full-bodied
Few cigars embody autumn like the Ramon Allones Specially Selected. It’s full of dark, roasted flavours – cocoa, espresso, and leather – with just enough spice to make it stand out. The aroma alone evokes that fireside comfort, making it a superb choice for chilly evenings.
This cigar’s robust profile also pairs wonderfully with strong coffee or an aged port – the kind of indulgence that defines the season.
Origin: Cuba
Strength: Full-bodied
A true classic for the cooler months, the Partagás Serie D No. 4 offers a bold, earthy profile that perfectly matches the mood of autumn. Expect rich notes of cedar, cocoa, and spice, with a peppery finish that lingers pleasantly. Its robusto size makes it an ideal companion for an evening smoke without being overwhelming.
This cigar pairs beautifully with a peaty Scotch or a rich espresso – the kind of pairing that feels right as the nights draw in and the temperature dips.
Origin: Nicaragua
Strength: Medium to full-bodied
This limited-edition release from Oliva is a standout choice for autumn smoking. The Melanio Edición Año 2022 features an Ecuadorian Sumatra wrapper over Nicaraguan binder and fillers, delivering a beautifully balanced smoke with deep, toasty flavours of chocolate, coffee, and oak.
What makes it such a perfect fit for autumn is its warmth and refinement. The cigar develops gentle hints of baking spice and caramel sweetness as it burns – flavours that feel right at home alongside a glass of bourbon, a spiced rum, or even a hot toddy.
The construction and burn are exemplary, offering a slow, satisfying experience ideal for crisp evenings spent outdoors or by the fireplace.
Origin: Nicaragua
Strength: Medium to full-bodied
There’s a touch of mystery about the Rocky Patel Grand Reserve Toro – its exact tobacco blend remains a well-guarded secret. What we do know, however, is that it’s crafted using some of the oldest tobaccos in Rocky Patel’s reserves, matured together for two years after rolling. The result is an exceptionally refined and creamy smoke with layers of complexity.
It opens with smooth notes of dried fruit and chocolate, before developing into rich nutty, woody, and leathery tones. As it burns, the flavour deepens with hints of spice and coffee, creating a profile that’s tailor-made for autumn.
This Toro (6” x 52) offers a substantial smoke – long enough to savour on a cool evening, but not so long that you’ll need to brave the chill for hours. Pair it with a glass of aged rum or a full-bodied red wine to bring out those warming flavours of fruit and spice.
Origin: Cuba
Strength: Medium
If the autumn air feels a little too crisp and you’d rather not linger outdoors for long, the San Cristobal El Príncipe is the perfect cigar for the season. Its compact Demi Corona size (4 3/8” x 42) makes it ideal for a shorter smoke – just enough to enjoy without losing feeling in your fingertips!
Don’t be fooled by its size, though; this cigar is bursting with flavour. It delivers rich cacao and floral notes wrapped in a smooth, medium-bodied profile. The combination feels indulgent yet refined, making it a superb choice for a late-afternoon smoke or a post-dinner moment of calm.
Enjoy it with a small glass of port, a cappuccino, or even a hot chocolate – its subtly sweet and aromatic character complements the comforting flavours of autumn beautifully.
The best cigars for autumn are those that capture the spirit of the season – deep, comforting, and layered with complexity. Whether you’re drawn to Cuban classics like the Partagás Serie D No. 4 or prefer the modern craftsmanship of Nicaraguan and Dominican blends, the key is to choose cigars that warm you from the inside out.
So pour a drink, find a comfortable chair, and enjoy the simple pleasure of an autumn smoke.
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