Are you wondering how to choose a worthy cigar for a close friend or loved one, or do you have a cigar lover on your present list? Just learning a couple of basic principles can help you sniff out (literally) a good cigar to give to a buddy, even if you nothing about cigars. When looking for good cigars, also think of a cigar humidor to keep them fresh.

Fortunately, cigars have now entered the mainstream and although they were once the symbol of the rich and powerful, it's easier than ever for just about anyone to purchase a good cigar. Of course, you probably won't be able to buy your friend a box of top-tier Cuban cigars, but you can definitely buy them a good quality cigar that will put a smile on their face.

First, avoid drugstore cigars, and instead be sure to visit your local tobacco or specialty smoke shop for the best quality and widest selection of cigars. Although they may be inexpensive and convenient to purchase, drugstore cigars are usually filled with preservatives and generally of poorer quality. They may contain, at minimum, saltpeter, paper, glycerin, and other preservatives and irritants so you should make sure that the cigars you purchase are made of 100 percent tobacco. Always be sure to ask the salesperson for more information regarding the ingredients containing in the cigar you wish to purchase. The sales clerk, if experienced and knowledgeable, should be able to provide you a plethora of information about the ingredients.

The best place to shop for cigars is usually your local tobacco shop, because you will be allowed to smell and touch the cigars. A good quality cigar will give a little when squeezed, with no excessively hard or soft spots, so be sure to squeeze the cigar and never buy a lumpy one. If you notice any drying or discoloration in the wrapper, it is best not to buy it. The best cigars are ideally smooth and tight. Inspect the end of the cigar, and look at the color of the tobacco to make sure it is evenly colored. If the color changes abruptly, then the cigar was probably not rolled properly, although some color variation is normal. Uneven burning and unpleasant odors are often the result of an improperly rolled cigar.

If you are certain that your friend is a cigar aficianado, be sure to choose a cigar that is thicker, because they tend to have a much richer flavor that experienced smokers will appreciate.If you're not sure how much your friend smokes, choose a longer cigar as they are inclined to have a 'cooler' taste—an excellent choice for beginners. Finally, ask your friend if he knows about cigar humidors. They are an excellent device for storing cigars.