The 5 Cigars That Began My Journey.

Premium cigar selection that elevated my smoking experience, alluring my journey to a lifelong destination.

Kai Beluso - September 2024

Before delving into the world of cigar smoking, I had always reserved it for special occasions. However, everything changed when I stumbled upon these five exceptional cigars. These particular cigars profoundly impacted me, leading to a shift in my perspective from seeing cigars as an occasional treat to making it a lifelong passion. As a result, I became deeply involved in the cigar industry and began investing in a world of premium cigars.

1) God of Fire Don Carlos Robusto Gordo

God Of Fire Don Carlos Cigar

Wrapper: Ecuadorian  / Binder: Dominican / Filler: Dominican  / Strength: Medium / Cigar Factory: A.Fuente & Company

The God of Fire by Don Carlos was my very first cigar, which was given to me by none other than my father for my 21st birthday. Initially, it was for my 18th, but I told him to save it till my 21st since he gave me the option (A great choice now that I look back since It aged longer). That way, I would have a general understanding of how to maintain basic cigar etiquette. Nonetheless, this cigar is a memory since my father and I smoked our own. I was hesitant in the beginning due to being inexperienced, but the moment I started,  I was amazed at how tobacco provided a likable experience. A piece of leaf that contributed to familiar flavors and aromas.

This is one of my all-time favorite medium-bodied cigars. The God of Fire was rich in maximizing flavors from beginning to end. The flavor profile consisted of critical highlights of earthy, woody, and nutty notes entangled with sweet cream and coffee, making it a sufficiently balanced cigar. I was struck by how the God of Fire maintained a solid burn while providing its dominant flavors from every third. I was constantly engaged to the point it was smoked down to the nub. Surprised I had smoked it to that point,  I fully understood why people affiliated with cigars. Leaving a highly notable first impression as a newcomer at that time. This cigar was the leading “snowball effect” to where I am now.

2) Tatuaje Cabaiguan (Britannica Extra)

Cabaiguan by Tatuaje cigar.

Wrapper: Ecuador Connecticut / Binder: Nicaraguan / Filler: Nicaraguan / Strength: Medium / Cigar Factory: My Father Cigars S.A

Tatuaje has a valuable place when it comes to my cigar journey. I passed through tradition because my father is a fan of Tatuaje. I prefer Tatuaje because it has made me more open-minded to other brands in the industry. The Cabaiguan has a significant role in my journey. This introductory cigar is my all-time favorite and one of my tops “every day” cigars. With that being mentioned, the Brittanica Extra was the gateway of interest to Tatuaje cigars and My Father cigars, which led to where I am today. 

This medium cigar is a true definition of quality when selecting medium cigars. Ideal for novices, this particular cigar consisted of rich amounts of cream and nuts, leading to a smooth transition of spices and peppers that is not overbearing, complimenting each flavor throughout the session from beginning to end. The highlight that intrigued me the most was how the complexity of this cigar transitioned after the first third, making it a notable impression. Every time I smoke the Tatuaje Cabaiguan Britannica Extra, it becomes increasingly enjoyable with each experience.

3) Stolen Thrones Crook of the Crown

Stolen Thrones Crook of the Crown cigar.

Wrapper: San Andres Maduro / Binder: Indonesian / Filler: Nicaraguan / Strength: Medium-Full / Cigar Factory: Rojas Cigar Factory

I was first introduced to Stolen Thrones at an event I attended with my father, aimed at educating newcomers about cigar events. As a token of attending, I received a core line pack, and the band on the cigar immediately caught my attention. My father humorously described it as "simply mysterious." The cigar's dark wrapper, adorned with the band, enticed me to light it up during the event. This experience began my appreciation for Stolen Thrones cigars and San Andres wrappers.

This medium, full-bodied cigar was genuinely intriguing. It was my first time experiencing a cigar with an Indonesian binder and a San Andrés wrapper, and it was also my inaugural cigar from the Rojas cigar factory. I was immediately captivated by this Stolen Thrones cigar. It boasted bold flavors of dark chocolate, espresso, and a hint of mild pepper, with a subtle underlying sweetness.

4) Crowned Heads La Imperiosa ‘Magicos’ Petit Robusto

La Imperiosa by Crowned Heads Cigars.

Wrapper: Ecuadorian Habano Oscuro / Binder: Nicaragua / Filler: Nicaragua / Strength: Full-Bodied / Cigar Factory: My Father Cigars S.A.

I was first introduced to Crowned Heads cigars with La Imperiosa. As a newcomer, I followed the typical approach of "shopping by the band," but my father always said I had a keen eye for selecting cigars. Looking back, I realize that choosing this cigar was a solid decision, even though I didn't know much about it then. To this day, I consider it an "everyday cigar."

This cigar offers a delightful combination of full-bodied yet mild flavors that are enjoyable from the first puff to the last. It boasts a dominant blend of rich chocolate and smooth leather, complemented by subtle hints of peppers, spices, and a nutty undertone. The intense aromas of figs and raisins add an extra layer of complexity to the smoking experience. Overall, it's an excellent choice for a memorable first smoke. I affectionately refer to the La Imperiosa as my "Fig Stick" due to its luxurious quality reminiscent of a fig newton. It stands out as one of the first cigars where I could distinctly discern fruity notes, adding to its unique appeal.

5) Black Label Trading Company Deliverance Nocturne Tall Salmon

Black Label Trading Co. Deliverance cigar.

Wrapper: U.S.A. (Pennsylvania Broadleaf) / Binder: Nicaragua (Habano) / Filler: Nicaragua & U.S.A. (Pennsylvania Ligero) / Strength: Medium-Full / Cigar Factory: Fabrica Oveja Negra

Initially, I hesitated because this was my first cigar from Black Label Trading Company. At the time, I was a newcomer and didn't do much research, relying on others' opinions without considering my palate. I was particularly anxious because Black Label Trading Company was known for its full-bodied cigars. This specific cigar was given to me by my father, making it a memorable experience as we both smoked our "dark-crystalized phalange.”

I enjoyed a full-bodied cigar that offered a delightful array of rich flavors from the first puff to the final draw. This medium full-bodied cigar provided a seamless transition in complexity, making it a lovely smoking experience. What I found particularly fascinating was how each third of the cigar revealed different flavors on the palate, perfectly complementing the underlying notes. This aspect made it an ideal choice for those new to cigar smoking.

Furthermore, this particular cigar served as an excellent introduction to the offerings of Black Label Trading Company and other lines from Oveja Negra. Crafted from a premium selection of Nicaraguan and Pennsylvanian tobaccos, it offered a truly unique profile. The cigar boasted dominant flavors of dark chocolate, pepper, coffee, and earth notes, with a subtle yet alluring floral essence that added complexity, keeping me thoroughly engaged throughout the smoking experience.

If you come across these cigars, I recommend trying them. In my experience, they were genuinely life-changing.

I look forward to seeing you in the lounge.

Kai-