mini havana cigars

Growing up, my parents were avid cigar smokers. The smell, the ritual of cutting and lighting, and the rich flavors always intrigued me, but as a young adult, I found full-sized cigars to be a bit too intense for my taste. That’s when I discovered little cigars – the perfect alternative for those who enjoy the experience of a cigar but want a milder taste.

Little cigars, also known as cigarillos or cigarritos, are smaller versions of traditional cigars. They are made up of tobacco wrapped in a tobacco leaf, just like cigars, but with a smaller size and often with a filter attached. They usually range from 3 to 4 inches in length and have a ring gauge (diameter) of 20 to 26. Little cigars come in a variety of flavors, from classic tobacco to fruity and sweet flavors.

One of the main reasons I love little cigars is their convenience. Unlike traditional cigars, they are pre-cut and pre-rolled, so all you have to do is light them up and enjoy. This makes them perfect for on-the-go smoking, whether it’s at a party, a concert, or just a quick break at work.

Another advantage of little cigars is their lower price point compared to full-sized cigars. This makes them more accessible and budget-friendly for those who want to enjoy the cigar experience without breaking the bank. Plus, with their smaller size, you won’t feel guilty about not finishing a full-sized cigar and wasting it.

One of the things that set little cigars apart from cigarettes is their higher quality tobacco. While cigarettes are made up of a blend of different types of tobacco, little cigars use only premium tobacco leaves, resulting in a smoother and more flavorful smoke. This is why they are often referred to as a “miniature cigar” rather than just a “cigarette”.

Little cigars also different from cigarettes in terms of the way they are smoked. Cigarettes are typically inhaled directly into the lungs, while cigars are meant to be puffed and the smoke held in the mouth. Little cigars fall somewhere in between, as they can be smoked either way depending on personal preference. For me, I prefer to puff on a little cigar and let the smoke linger in my mouth to fully appreciate the flavors.

Now, let’s talk about some of the most popular little cigar brands and flavors on the market.

One of the top brands in the little cigar world is Swisher Sweets. They offer a variety of flavors, including classic, sweet, and fruity options. Their classic blend has a smooth and mellow taste, while their sweet flavors, such as grape and peach, add a hint of sweetness to the smoke. If you’re feeling adventurous, their wild rush blend features a mix of sweet and spicy flavors.

Another popular brand is Al Capone, named after the infamous gangster. Their little cigars are made with premium Caribbean tobacco and come in a variety of flavors, including cognac, rum, and cognac dipped. These little cigars are known for their smooth, subtly sweet taste and their compact size, making them perfect for a quick smoke.

For those who prefer a more traditional cigar taste, there’s Dutch Masters. Their little cigars are made with a blend of premium Caribbean and Indonesian tobacco, giving them a bold and rich flavor. They also offer a variety of flavors, including chocolate, vanilla, and honey fusion, for those who want a hint of sweetness.

Now, before you rush to the store to try out these little cigars, let’s talk about the proper way to smoke them. As I mentioned earlier, little cigars can be smoked like a cigarette by inhaling directly into the lungs, but for the full experience, it’s best to puff on them and hold the smoke in your mouth. Also, be sure to rotate the cigar while puffing to ensure an even burn.

When it comes to pairing little cigars with a drink, the possibilities are endless. For a classic pairing, go for a whiskey or bourbon to complement the smoky flavors of the cigar. For a sweeter option, try a fruity cocktail or a glass of wine. And for a unique combination, try pairing a little cigar with a cold brew coffee – the flavors surprisingly complement each other.

One thing to keep in mind when smoking little cigars is that they do produce second-hand smoke, so be considerate of those around you, especially in indoor settings. As a courtesy, ask those around you if they mind before lighting up and be mindful of designated smoking areas.

In conclusion, for those who enjoy cigars but prefer a milder taste and a more convenient and affordable option, little cigars are the way to go. With a variety of flavors and brands to choose from, there is something for every preference. Just remember to smoke responsibly and enjoy the relaxing and flavorful experience that little cigars have to offer.