As a cigar enthusiast, I have always been intrigued by the world of small cigars, also known as “little cigars.” These miniature versions of the classic cigar have a unique charm and appeal that sets them apart from their larger counterparts. In this article, I will share with you everything you need to know about little cigars, from their history and composition to their variants and flavors.
History of Little Cigars:
The history of little cigars can be traced back to the 17th century when Europeans started trading with the indigenous people in the Americas. They discovered that the natives were smoking tobacco in the form of rolled up leaves, which they called “papelitos.” The Europeans took this idea back to their home countries and started experimenting with different kinds of tobacco and wrappers to create their own version of papelitos.
By the 1800s, cigar manufacturing had become a prominent industry, and little cigars were a popular and affordable option for the working class. These cigars were smaller in size than traditional cigars and were made using scraps of tobacco leaves, making them a more accessible and affordable option for the masses.
Composition of Little Cigars:
Little cigars are typically made from a blend of tobacco leaves that are shorter in length and have a higher ratio of short fillers compared to traditional cigars. They are also wrapped in a tobacco leaf or a homogenized wrapper, which is a thin sheet of tobacco pulp and adhesive. The filler blend and wrapper used in little cigars contribute to their unique flavor and aroma.
As someone who has tried a variety of little cigars, I can confidently say that their composition gives them a smoother and milder taste compared to traditional cigars. This makes them an excellent option for beginners or those who prefer a less intense smoking experience.
Types of Little Cigars:
Little cigars come in various shapes and sizes, just like traditional cigars. The three most common types are cigarillos, cheroots, and cigarritos. Cigarillos are the most popular type of little cigars, with a length of 3-4 inches and a ring gauge of 20-26. They are short and slender, providing a shorter smoking time but still packing a flavorful punch.
Cheroots, on the other hand, are cylindrical in shape and have a length of 4-6 inches and a ring gauge of 34-36. They are a relatively larger and more robust option for those who prefer a longer smoke. Finally, cigarritos are the smallest type of little cigars, with a length of 2-2.5 inches and a ring gauge of 20-22. They are ideal for a quick smoke break and are often flavored with sweet or fruity flavors.
Flavors of Little Cigars:
One aspect that sets little cigars apart from traditional cigars is their wide range of flavors. While traditional cigars are often limited to natural, unflavored blends, little cigars come in a plethora of flavors to suit different tastes. From fruity flavors like cherry and grape to sweeter options like vanilla and chocolate, there is a flavor for every palate.
As someone who enjoys the occasional flavored cigar, I have found that little cigars offer a more intense and flavorful taste compared to larger cigars. The infusion of flavoring elements during the manufacturing process ensures a consistent and long-lasting taste throughout the smoke.
Little Cigars vs. Cigarettes:
There is often confusion between little cigars and cigarettes, with many people assuming they are the same thing. However, there are significant differences between the two. While both are made with tobacco, little cigars contain a higher quality of tobacco leaves compared to cigarettes. They also have a slightly larger size and are wrapped in natural tobacco leaf or a homogenized wrapper, making them more similar to traditional cigars in terms of composition.
Moreover, little cigars are meant to be smoked like cigars, with the smoker taking their time to savor the flavors and aromas. On the other hand, cigarettes are meant to be inhaled, with smoke drawn into the lungs. This leads to a more intense nicotine hit and a faster burn time.
My Personal Favorites:
After trying out various little cigars, I have found a few personal favorites that I always go back to. One of them is the Backwoods Honey Berry cigarillos, which has a uniquely sweet and fruity flavor that I find irresistible. Another favorite is the Swisher Sweets Cherry cigarillos, which are slightly larger in size and have a strong cherry flavor that is not overpowering.
If you’re a fan of sweeter flavors, I also highly recommend the Firecracker Cherry cigarritos, which are perfect for a quick smoke break and have a delicious cherry taste. For those who prefer a more traditional cigar flavor, I suggest trying the Quorum Short Robusto cigarillos, which have a balanced, smooth taste that is reminiscent of a classic cigar.
In conclusion, little cigars offer a unique and enjoyable smoking experience that is different from both traditional cigars and cigarettes. Their history, composition, and wide range of flavors make them a popular choice among smokers. So the next time you’re looking for a mini cigar to enjoy, consider trying out one of the many amazing options available in the world of little cigars.