What samplers to get and steer clear of?

[rhutch]

I'm interested in getting a few samplers to try out different brands but really don't have a clue as to good ones to try. Any suggestions? Anyone ever try samplers that are from magazine ads?

Thanks for the help.

Ryan

 

[3rdworldchild]

When I first started out I bought a Don Pepin Sampler that I really liked. But I suppose it all depends on what kind of smokes you enjoy? All about personal preference.

 

[strife]

Too subjective to answer with a definitive answer. You're going to have to research the cigars until you find a profile that you like, reviews and recommendations work. Samplers by definition will vary, some in the batch you'll like some you won't. I'd start by zeroing in on the strength that you prefer.

 

[VillageIdiot]

My first sampler was the 90 rated sampler from CI. For a new smoker, it was a good place to start. It was very affordable and it had a wide range of smokes.

 

[bigbwalls]

CI has mild, medium, and full cigar samplers. All feature pretty good smokes for a reasonable price; they're all $35.

http://www.cigarsinternational.com/catDisp.asp?cat=16

 

[JDP]

Just steer clear of those terrible Playboy cigars. :bouncetau

 

[twenty5]

Check out New Havana Cigars, they have a lot of great samplers. Here is one that will help you figure out what strengths you like:
http://www.newhavanacigars.com/Tatuaje_Robustos_Sampler_p/tat-robustos-sampler.htm
Or a similiar sampler from Famous:
http://www.famous-smoke.com/the+pete+johnson+collection+cigars/item+29613
The famous sampler can be had for 20 bucks shipped on cigarmonster.com once in awhile, I am waiting for its next appearance lol.

 

[SkinsFanLarry]

I agree with twenty5, my first choice would be the sampler from New Havana Cigars, but I do prefer full bodied smokes.

Holt's Cigar Company has some good sampler's too.

 

[CWS]

One of our sponsors, Famous, has Cigar Monster. Great way to try sticks at a good price.

 

[CAJoe]

CI has some samplers where they give a huge variety like the Sampler to End All Samplers. If you want to try a wide range of cigars that maybe a place to start. I did and found some I like and a lot I didnt. Only way to figure out what you like is to smoke em.

 

[tedski]

1. Try everything at least once.

2. Keep a notebook / diary of your experiences. Nothing fancy, just what you liked or didn't like. After awhile you'll begin to see preferences in size, strength, tobacco origin and wrapper.

3. Stay away from CigarBid.com. Otherwise you will find blossoming credit card bills each month. :devil:

 

[El Baton]

New Havana Illusione Sampler was one of the best I have ever purchased. My input would be to visit a couple of B&M's (if you have one in your area) get to know the owner/employee. Let them know you are just starting out and if they are worth their weight, they will steer you in the right direction.

Also, if your B&M has a lounge, just go in and spark up conversation with the regulars (trust me, you will know them by their comaraderie), for most of them want to build the hobby and will be more than happy to help you discover what you like.

Like Tedski stated, and I cannot stress this enough, try everything. Sure, you'll sample a couple of dog rockets, however, your pallete is your pallete and only you know what will make you happy.

 

[GoingPostal]

CI and Famous are two really good places to start. also don't forget to check out the trade board. you can find some really good deals on there as well. It's true everyone likes what they like so i say try everything once that's the only way you'll find what you like.

CI current deal
http://www.cigarsinternational.com/prodDisp.asp?item=SP-CIDD105&ci=1
Famous Flight Club
http://www.famous-smoke.com/cigars/flightclub.cfm

 

[Moro]

May I suggest the newbie sampler thread here? :smokingbo