As a cigar aficionado, I have tried many different types of cigars over the years. From large, hand-rolled cigars to small, machine-made ones, I thought I had tried them all. That is until I discovered little cigars. These miniature versions of traditional cigars have quickly become a favorite of mine. In this article, I will share everything you need to know about little cigars, from their history to their flavors and everything in between.
Little cigars, also known as cigarillos or mini cigars, have been around for centuries. They were first introduced in the 1800s as a cheaper and milder alternative to traditional cigars. At the time, they were made by hand just like their larger counterparts, but with a shorter and thinner design. In the mid-20th century, little cigars began to be mass-produced using machines, making them even more affordable and accessible to the general public.
One of the main differences between little cigars and traditional cigars is in their size. Little cigars are typically around 3 to 4 inches long and have a ring gauge (diameter) of 20 to 30, while traditional cigars can range from 5 to 8 inches in length and have a ring gauge of 40 to 60. This smaller size makes little cigars more convenient to carry around and smoke on the go.
Another distinguishing factor of little cigars is the type of tobacco used. While traditional cigars are made with whole leaf tobacco, little cigars are made with a blend of tobacco scraps, also known as short filler. This allows manufacturers to use tobacco that may not meet the quality standards for traditional cigars, making little cigars more affordable.
One of the biggest draws for little cigars is their flavor. They come in a variety of flavors, from traditional tobacco to sweet and fruity flavors like cherry and vanilla. Some popular little cigar brands even have more unique flavors like chocolate and coffee. These flavors appeal to both new and experienced cigar smokers, making little cigars a popular choice for all.
When it comes to smoking little cigars, there are a few things to keep in mind. Since they are smaller, they burn faster than traditional cigars, so it’s important to take your time and enjoy the experience. Additionally, because of their lower cost, some people may be tempted to inhale the smoke. However, little cigars are meant to be smoked like traditional cigars, by drawing the smoke into your mouth and then exhaling.
One of the things I love about little cigars is the variety of packaging options available. Most come in packs of 5 or 10, making it easy to try different flavors. Others come in tins, which not only add to the aesthetic appeal of the cigars but also help keep them fresh. This makes little cigars a great option for sharing with friends or enjoying on a solo outing.
Aside from their size and flavor, little cigars also have a lower impact on the environment compared to traditional cigars. As mentioned earlier, they are made with scraps of tobacco, which helps reduce waste. Additionally, since they burn faster, they create less ash and smoke, making them a more eco-friendly option for cigar smokers.
One of the major misconceptions about little cigars is that they are cheap or of lower quality. While it’s true that they are more affordable than traditional cigars, that doesn’t mean they are of lesser quality. Thanks to advancements in manufacturing processes, little cigars can offer the same level of quality and flavor as traditional cigars, at a fraction of the cost.
Another misconception is that little cigars are only for occasional smokers or beginners. While they are a great option for those who are new to cigar smoking, they are also enjoyed by experienced cigar aficionados, like myself. The variety of flavors and affordable price point make them a great addition to any cigar collection.
In conclusion, little cigars are a great alternative to traditional cigars, offering convenience, affordability, and a variety of flavors. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned cigar smoker, I highly recommend giving little cigars a try. With their small size and big flavors, they may just become your new favorite way to enjoy a smoke.