So a Soldier of mine asked me a great question yesterday that I wasn't prepared to answer. He asked me what cigar would be a suitable celebration cigar to share with his family once we get back from Iraq. Here are the facts:

1. He is not an avid smoker, but wants to get into the hobby.

2. None of his family, minus his grandfather, are regular smokers.

3. He is looking to buy a box.

4. He is willing to spend as much as $400.

Can you guys give me some suggestions for this guy please? I made a few recommendations. I think the most important thing to keep in consideration is that none in the group are regular smokers, so picking a full-bodied cigar is probably not the right answer.

Thanks for any suggestions.
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Padron 1964 Anniversary Torpedos.
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I am sure something in a tube would be better because most aren't going to smoke it. It will just be a memento of the homecoming. I don't have a suggestion for with cigar to pick but something mild and in a tube would be what I would shot for. I am sure others are going to be able to chime in on something great.
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Maduro or Natural?
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I prefer Maduro, but really either one is good!

I like the tubo idea above for those who won't smoke it. :-)
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The tubos idea is a good idea for someone approaching this subject logically. However, this kid wants to show up with a top tier cigar to wow his family. Do we have any recommendations for premium cigars in tubos?
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Camacho Liberties come to mind for this sort of Homecoming. It seems fitting to me. They won't be on the mild side, but a great keepsake.

http://cigars.about.com/b/2008/05/24...rty-cigars.htm
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AVO #9 Tubos
Davidoff 2000 Tubos
La Aurora Preferidos Tubos (someone else would have to recommend which wrapper)
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I would say to not go overboard, the family will not reconize that its a top tier cigar. Even top tier come in with a basic band. I would say get himself and the family something fairly mild. Maybe AVO, Ashton lines, perdomo champagne.. I hate to say it but the fancy band will give the family a sense of a "top tier" stick
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these are good.


http://www.famous-smoke.com/cigars/s...cfm/inum/17576


Image
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another thing i try to do for non-cigar smokers... choose a small cigar.
they're less likely to get intimated by it, and less likely to waste most of it :-)
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O' and maybe add a nice bottle of scotch, or his preference and still only spend $200-$250, have some left over to get started in the hobby.
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This is a good suggestion, and I agree that it's fitting for the situation. Thanks!
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I tried convincing him of this last night when he asked. I was guiding him toward more of an "everyday" flashy band type. I suggested a box of RP Vintage 90/92. Looks respectable, reasonable price range, and generally speaking a solid cigar.
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Macanudo?
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He says he's not much of a drinker. I talked about that as well.
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AF short story. Nice milder cigar that smokes quick with a low Vitamin N dose.

Ashton Classic Series is a nice mild cigar that is more expensive.

CAO America for the novelty factor. Seems appropriate for the homecoming but may be a little strong.
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Ah, yet you forget sir that I love my scotch! Don't count out the beer, either:-)

It has come to my attention that I will be ditributing cigars primarily to the male side of the family, and having something 'nice' in reserve for the female kin. The number of cigars we're looking at is around 15 in total, give or take a couple. My idea of this celebration is a big herf with the guys, yet I will not exclude anyone. I agree, however, that a truly bold cigar would probably not be in our best interest.

One thing i'd like to implement is that I am almost positive that these cigars WILL be smoked, and enjoyed, as I've yet to meet a man who turns down a good cigar. I know as a fact that cigars bought will not go to waste (because either way, i'll end up smoking them):-)
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