How to Spot Quality Cigars
Are you looking for advice on how to identify a quality cigar? Here are tips on what to look for when buying high-quality cigars:
- Shape is the most important thing to evaluate when looking for a good quality cigar. First, find a shape that you like and will feel comfortable smoking.
- Then, quite simply, judge a book by its cover — in this case, the wrapper. Make sure that the outermost leaf (the wrapper) is applied flawlessly, without gaps, or tears.
- Color uniformity is key when it comes to top quality cigars. Look for uniform color. You don’t want a cigar that is mottled or spotted.
- Avoid cigars that haven’t been kept at appropriate humidity levels — this will mean the cigar feels dry, flakes, or crumbles.
- However, if you do have a cigar in your humidor that has dried out, there is a way to rehydrate a cigar.
- Look for cigars with a luster or sheen which indicates that they are high quality.
- Good cigars should not have any weak spots. Make sure the cigar is well-filled with tobacco and has a consistently firm feel throughout, without any weak spots.
- The flavor is also very important. Remove the cigar from its outer wrapping (if in a cigar shop, ask for permission first!), put the cigar up to your nose and take a nice deep inhale. If the smell of the cigar is appealing to you, chances are the taste will be, too.
Want to learn more about selecting high-quality cigar brands — check out our Find Your Perfect Cigar tool.
Is there anything else you need to know about how to choose a cigar? Tell us below or join a group and ask other cigars lovers.
Current Cigar World Promotions
Cigar World Cigar Madness 2025
—
Everyone’s favorite bracket-based competition has returned for 2025! It's time for another year of Cigar World Cigar Madness. Make sure to follow us on our Instagram and cast your vote for your favorite smokes all month long.
Macanudo Golf Bag Giveaway
—
Shoot for a chance to win this limited-edition Macanudo golf bag and travel bag!
Comments
2 Rays Cigar
(15 days ago)This article does a great job explaining what to look for in a high-quality cigar! For anyone looking to explore premium options, I highly recommend checking out this selection of Cohiba Cuban Cigars for an authentic experience. And if you're new to cigars, this beginner’s guide is a great resource to get started. Thanks for sharing this insightful read!
2 Rays Cigar
(15 days ago)rayscigars.com
14 All American
(21 months ago)No one at the cigar shop is going to give you permission to remove a cigar from the cellophane. That is utter nonsense.
4 Pratchea
(2 years ago)If you don’t smell how do you know it to your liking ? I agree about touching you nose ?
1 EZ
(4 years ago)DO NOT remove a cigar from the cellophane wrapper and put it to your nose!!!! If you do this, BUY THE DAMN CIGAR!!! I certainly don't want to come along later and buy one that you've fondled. Good grief!! This was horrible advice.
1 Tony g
(4 years ago)Well said.
2 SmoKerch
(5 years ago)If you take off the cello, and touch the cigar to your nose to get the aroma, please purchase it. It is now yours. Do NOT put it back. PLEASE!
No one has commented on this page yet.