Sampling Strategy

[Kruz]

I recently placed an order for a bunch of PCs (and a PL robusto just cause) from *****INT to experience all the different brands of cubans. I was hoping for advice on what to do after narrowing down the exact brands that I like.

Should I then order a sampler of the different sizes within the brand or just order a box of the size I usually go for (corona or robusto)? Is there a drastic difference between the different sizes within a brand? I would prefer to start ordering boxes because then I can start aging them and it works out cheaper by the stick.

Thanks,

[Lotusguy]

The Petit Corona (where available) are usually a pretty good representation of the marca.

[ramon_cojones]

I would not buy boxes of cigars you haven't tried, do yourself a favor and get many samplers.

[Kruz]

You are probably right. No use rushing into things like I did with NCs. Good thing we can order singles now.

I would not buy boxes of cigars you haven't tried, do yourself a favor and get many samplers.

[stargazer14]

I think you may be cutting yourself short thinking you will like one marcas and then stick within that brand -

you may very well find that you like most all them, but for different reasons. You may tire of the profile after a period

and begin to want to change up. You may find your favorite brand changes each month!

Diversity is good, and one day you will desire a Bolivar, the next your palate will long for a Partagas.

Buy those you like, but don't limit yourself.

[mk05]

I'd just buy whatever goes on sale. You'll end up smoking it later.

[ramon_cojones]

You are probably right. No use rushing into things like I did with NCs. Good thing we can order singles now.

Also, smoke as many different singles as you can and buy more singles of ones you like. It will generally take you 2-3 cigars for you to know that a box of them is for you. Your palate will change as will your preferences so take what you know about NCs and apply it to judging CCs.

I guess I'm a little more methodical in my approach than most who are complacent wtih whatever boxes they have but personally I can't stand having smokes I don't love in my humidor. I've made a few mistakes of ordering blind and not enjoying the cigars that much but nowadays if I haven't smoked it I won't buy it so my strike rate is near 100%. I will generally smoke at least two examples before ordering a box unless just one is astounding.

[canadianbeaver]

Box splits is a great way to go if you have a friend who buys too. Sharing half boxes let's your $ go farther and mixes up your collection a bit.

[1LegLance]

I agree very much on box splits...great way to spead the money and make friends

As to the change in taste between vitolas I will say that there can be a HUGE difference....a RyJ Exhibition #4 vs Cazadores ???

A Bolivar Corona Jr vs a Gold Medal??

For me I know I usually prefer a Petite Corona, and sizes close to that. Therefore I try that size vitola in different marcas, it is only when I hear rants and raves about something else I will buy it.

That said the few times I have ordered a box of somthing I don't like I usually know someone who will like it and offer it up in trade.

[Kruz]

Thanks for everyone who chimed in. Lots of great suggestions here. I just put in an order that I'm going to split with three other friends.

[nikesupremedunk]

It's a really tough question to answer because your palate changes over time and the cigars also change. I would suggest buying 10 ct boxes whenever it's available, that way you can see over a year if they're worth a box purchase. At least get a fiver if you can, but if it's cheap enough, just buy the whole box. If you turn out you really don't like them, you won't have trouble selling them (for the most part).

[Blakes]

I'd just buy whatever goes on sale. You'll end up smoking it later.

Yup.

I've found... I pretty much like all CC. Obviously some i prefer more than others but i haven't come across a CC that tastes how its supposed to (meaning not including the ones that have junk tobacco, are to young / nowhere near ready to smoke or have bad construction that affects the taste) that i've not liked in some way.