flavoured little cigars

As a cigar aficionado, I have always been drawn to the bold flavors and rich aromas of traditional cigars. However, as I delved deeper into the world of tobacco, I discovered a hidden gem – little cigars.

At first glance, little cigars may seem like miniature versions of their larger counterparts, but they offer a unique smoking experience that is worth exploring. In this article, I will take you on a journey through the world of little cigars, from their history and production to their flavor profiles and smoking etiquette.

So what exactly are little cigars? They are typically 3 inches or shorter in length and have a ring gauge of 20 or less. This sets them apart from regular cigars, which are usually around 5 to 6 inches in length and have a ring gauge of 40 or more. Little cigars are also made from a blend of tobacco leaves, just like regular cigars, but they often use a combination of short and long filler tobacco.

One of the earliest forms of little cigars can be traced back to the 1800s, when they were known as cigarillos. These small cigars were popular among European aristocrats and were often used as a quick smoke. However, it was not until the 1970s that little cigars gained a significant following in the United States.

One of the major differences between little cigars and regular cigars is their production process. While regular cigars are hand-rolled and undergo a strict aging process, little cigars are machine-made and typically do not require a long aging period. This makes them more affordable and accessible for cigar enthusiasts on a budget.

But don’t let their size and production process fool you – little cigars pack a punch when it comes to flavor. Due to the use of short filler tobacco, little cigars have a bolder and more intense flavor compared to regular cigars. They also come in a variety of flavors such as vanilla, cherry, and chocolate, making them popular among beginner cigar smokers who may not appreciate the strong taste of traditional cigars.

When it comes to smoking etiquette, little cigars should be treated with the same respect and care as regular cigars. They should be cut and lit properly, and the smoker should take their time to savor the flavors. However, due to their smaller size, little cigars usually don’t provide the same long-lasting smoking experience as regular cigars, so they are not meant to be smoked for extended periods of time.

One thing to keep in mind when smoking little cigars is that they tend to burn faster and hotter than regular cigars. This is because the tobacco used in little cigars is often chopped into smaller pieces, which allows for a quicker burn. Therefore, it is important to take longer intervals between puffs to prevent the cigar from overheating and becoming too harsh on the palate.

Little cigars also come in a wide range of shapes and sizes, from the traditional straight cigar shape to the more unique and playful ones like cigarillos, panatelas, and coronas. This gives smokers the opportunity to experiment and find the perfect size and shape for their preferences.

Now, some may argue that little cigars are not as “sophisticated” as regular cigars, and that they are simply a cheap alternative. However, I believe that their smaller size and bolder flavors offer a unique and enjoyable smoking experience. They are also a great option for those who want to try cigars but may be intimidated by the larger and more traditional ones.

In terms of cost, little cigars are definitely more budget-friendly than regular cigars. This makes them a great choice for everyday smoking or for special occasions where you want to share with a larger group of people without breaking the bank.

However, it is important to note that just like regular cigars, little cigars are also subject to government regulations and taxes. The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has implemented restrictions on the packaging and marketing of little cigars, making it harder for manufacturers to advertise and sell their products.

In conclusion, little cigars may be small in size, but they offer a big and bold smoking experience. Whether you are a seasoned cigar enthusiast or just starting to explore the world of tobacco, little cigars are definitely worth adding to your collection. From their rich history and unique production process to their variety of flavors and shapes, little cigars have something to offer for every cigar lover. So why not grab a few and give them a try? I promise you won’t be disappointed.