little flavoured cigars
I’ve always been a fan of cigars, but sometimes I don’t have the time or patience to smoke a full-sized one. That’s where little cigars come in – the perfect alternative for busy cigar enthusiasts like myself. In this article, I’ll be sharing everything you need to know about these miniature versions of the classic cigar.
What are little cigars?
Little cigars, also known as cigarillos, are smaller versions of traditional cigars. They are typically about 3 inches in length and have a diameter of around 20mm, making them about half the size of a regular cigar. They are made with the same tobacco as regular cigars, but are wrapped in a tobacco leaf or paper instead of a tobacco wrapper.
Their origins can be traced back to the 1800s, where they were first created in Spain as a cheaper alternative to cigars. However, they gained popularity in the United States in the 1960s when the tobacco industry started to mass produce them.
What makes little cigars different from regular cigars?
Aside from the obvious size difference, there are other notable differences between little cigars and regular cigars. One of the main differences is the type of tobacco used. Little cigars are made with a blend of tobacco, whereas traditional cigars are made with whole-leaf tobacco. This gives little cigars a slightly different flavor than regular cigars.
Another factor that sets little cigars apart is their price. Little cigars are significantly cheaper than regular cigars, making them a more accessible option for those on a budget. They are also available in a variety of flavors, from classic tobacco blends to more exotic flavors like cherry and vanilla.
How are little cigars made?
The process of making little cigars is similar to that of regular cigars. It starts with the tobacco leaves, which are harvested and cured before being aged for a period of time. After the leaves have been aged, they are blended together to create a specific flavor profile.
The blended tobacco is then cut into smaller pieces and rolled into a binder, which is a type of leaf that holds the tobacco together. The binder is then wrapped in a tobacco leaf or paper and secured with a piece of tobacco glue. The cigars are then dried and packaged, ready to be enjoyed by cigar lovers.
What are the different types of little cigars?
There are two main types of little cigars – machine-made and hand-rolled. Machine-made cigars are mass-produced with the help of a machine, while hand-rolled cigars are made by skilled artisans. The main difference between the two is in the quality and consistency of the cigars.
Machine-made little cigars are made with short-filler tobacco, which consists of smaller pieces of tobacco leaves. This makes them easier and quicker to produce, resulting in a more affordable product. Hand-rolled cigars, on the other hand, use long-filler tobacco, which consists of whole-leaf tobacco. This results in a higher-quality product with a more complex flavor profile.
What is the proper way to smoke a little cigar?
Smoking a little cigar is not much different from smoking a regular cigar. The main difference lies in the size and time it takes to smoke one. Here are some steps to help you enjoy your little cigar to the fullest:
1. Cut the cigar – Unlike regular cigars, little cigars do not need to be cut. However, you can use a cigar cutter to make the opening wider if you prefer.
2. Light the cigar – Hold the cigar at a 45-degree angle and slowly rotate it over the flame until it is evenly lit.
3. Take your time – Little cigars are meant to be enjoyed at a slower pace. Take slow draws and let the smoke linger in your mouth to fully appreciate the flavor.
4. Ash your cigar – As the name suggests, little cigars have a smaller ash than regular cigars. Be sure to ash your cigar frequently to avoid any unwanted ashes falling onto your clothes.
5. Savor the flavor – Little cigars have a slightly milder flavor than regular cigars, so take your time to fully experience the nuances of the tobacco blend.
6. Dispose of the cigar – When you’re done smoking, simply dispose of the cigar in an ashtray or a designated smoking area.
What are the health risks associated with little cigars?
Just like regular cigars, little cigars also come with health risks. While they may be smaller in size, they still contain tobacco and other toxins that can be harmful to your health. In fact, some studies have shown that little cigars may actually contain more nicotine, tar, and carbon monoxide than regular cigars.
Moreover, just like their larger counterparts, little cigars are also associated with an increased risk of oral, lung, and heart diseases. It’s important to keep in mind that smoking any type of tobacco product comes with health risks, and it’s always best to exercise caution and moderation.
In conclusion, little cigars are a convenient and affordable option for cigar enthusiasts. Their smaller size and variety of flavors make them a popular choice among cigar lovers. However, it’s important to keep in mind the health risks associated with smoking any type of tobacco product. So, the next time you reach for a little cigar, remember to enjoy it in moderation and savor every puff.