Walking into a cigar shop for the first time can feel like walking into a wine store when you don't know wine. Hundreds of cigars, all different colors and sizes, and you don't want to look lost.

Here's the good news: picking a first cigar is easier than it looks. Here's what matters.

1. Start mild to medium

The most common mistake is going too strong too fast. A full-bodied cigar can overwhelm you if you're new. Start with something mild or medium, and work your way up once you know what you like.

2. Look at the wrapper color

The wrapper is the outside leaf, and its color gives you a hint of the flavor.

• Light tan (Connecticut): mild, smooth and creamy. A great starting point.
• Medium brown (Habano, Corojo): a little spice, some wood. The next step up.
• Dark brown to almost black (Maduro): rich, sweet, chocolate and coffee notes. Darker doesn't always mean stronger, but it does mean richer.

3. Pick a manageable size

Big cigars take a long time to smoke. For your first one, go with a robusto. It's short and a little thick, and it takes roughly 45 minutes to an hour. That's enough time to enjoy it without committing your whole evening.

4. You don't need to spend a lot

A great first cigar doesn't have to be expensive. There are plenty of well-made mid-range cigars that are perfect for learning what you like.

5. The basics once you've got it

• Cut a small slice off the rounded end (the cap). Just enough to open it up.
• Light by toasting the open end with the flame slowly, turning as you go, until it glows evenly.
• Don't inhale. Cigar smoke is for tasting. Draw it into your mouth, enjoy the flavor, and let it go.
• Take your time. Puff every minute or so. Rushing makes it burn hot and bitter.

The best tip: just ask us

Honestly, the fastest way to find your first cigar is to talk to whoever's behind the counter. Tell us what you like: coffee, something sweet, something smooth. We'll point you right to it. No pressure, no judgment. Everybody starts somewhere.

That's what Cigar Box is about: a big selection and people who actually know it.

Find a Cigar Box near you

We have six locations: Coal Creek, Shamokin, Laurel Mall, Tilghman, Orwigsburg and Hometown. Stop into whichever is closest and tell us it's your first one.