As a cigar enthusiast, I have always been fascinated by all the different types and sizes of cigars available. Recently, I discovered a new type of cigar that has become my latest obsession – little cigars. At first glance, they may seem like miniature versions of traditional cigars, but there is so much more to these little gems. In this article, I will share my thoughts and experiences with little cigars and why I think they are a must-try for any cigar lover.

So, what exactly are little cigars? They are essentially the little brothers of regular cigars, typically measuring around 3 inches in length and with a ring gauge of 20 or less. They are often referred to as cigarillos or mini cigars, and they come in a variety of flavors and blends, just like their larger counterparts.

What first caught my attention about little cigars was their size. I was used to smoking larger cigars, so the idea of a shorter smoke was intriguing. I was also drawn to their accessibility – they are available at most convenience stores and can be bought in packs of five or more. This makes them perfect for those times when you want a quick and convenient cigar without committing to a full-size one.

The first little cigar I tried was a Drew Estate Java Mint cigarillo. As I lit it and took my first puff, I was immediately impressed by the rich and smooth flavor. The mint and coffee notes were bold and perfectly balanced, with a hint of sweetness that left a pleasant taste in my mouth. Despite its smaller size, it still provided a satisfying 10-15 minute smoke, making it perfect for a short break or a quick pick-me-up.

What I love most about little cigars is their versatility. They come in a wide range of flavors, including traditional tobacco blends, as well as more unique flavors like fruit, chocolate, and even Cognac. This variety allows you to try different flavors and find the ones that suit your taste buds the best. It also makes them perfect for pairing with different drinks, such as coffee or a spirit, to enhance the flavors of both the cigar and the drink.

Another great thing about little cigars is their affordability. While traditional cigars can cost anywhere from $5 to upwards of $50, little cigars are much more budget-friendly, typically ranging from $1 to $5 depending on the brand and flavor. This makes them a great option for those who want to enjoy a good smoke without breaking the bank.

One concern that many people have with little cigars is their quality. Since they are smaller and more accessible than traditional cigars, some may assume that they are of lower quality. However, this is not always the case. There are many reputable brands that produce high-quality little cigars with premium tobaccos just like their larger counterparts. It is all about finding the right brand and flavor to suit your preferences.

Little cigars also offer an advantage when it comes to storage. Traditional cigars need to be kept in a humidor to maintain their freshness and prevent them from drying out. Little cigars, on the other hand, do not require a humidor. They come in airtight individual packaging, making them perfect for on-the-go smoking.

I must admit, as much as I love little cigars, there are a few downsides to them. The biggest one is their short burning time. While this is perfect for a quick smoke, it may leave you wanting more if you were looking for a longer, leisurely smoking experience. Another downside is that their smaller size may make them harder to hold and smoke, especially if you have larger hands. But these are minor issues that can easily be overlooked in the face of all the positives that little cigars offer.

I would also like to address the misconception that little cigars are marketed towards children or non-cigar smokers. This could not be further from the truth. Little cigars are made with the same premium tobaccos and quality control as traditional cigars and are intended for adult cigar enthusiasts. It is important to educate others about this misconception and showcase the true appeal of these cigars.

In conclusion, little cigars may be small in size, but they pack a lot of flavor and value. They are perfect for those times when you want a quick and convenient smoke, and they offer a wide variety of flavors to suit every palate. They are also budget-friendly and require no special storage, making them a great option for any cigar lover. I highly recommend giving little cigars a try – who knows, they might become your next cigar obsession just like they did for me. Happy smoking!