When it comes to enjoying a good cigar, most people think of large, traditional cigars. However, there is another type of cigar that has been gaining popularity in recent years – little cigars. These small, compact cigars offer a unique smoking experience that is different from their larger counterparts. As a cigar enthusiast, I have had the pleasure of trying various little cigars and wanted to share my thoughts and experiences with you.

First off, what exactly are little cigars? Also known as cigarillos or mini cigars, they are smaller versions of traditional cigars. They typically measure around 3-4 inches in length and have a ring gauge (diameter) of 20-29. This makes them a perfect quick smoke for those who don’t have the time for a full-length cigar or for those who prefer a milder smoking experience.

One of the main differences between little cigars and traditional cigars is the type of tobacco used. Little cigars are made with a blend of premium, flue-cured tobacco, whereas traditional cigars are made with whole leaf tobacco. The use of flue-cured tobacco gives little cigars a smoother and milder flavor compared to traditional cigars. This makes them a great choice for beginners or those who are not accustomed to the strong taste of traditional cigars.

In terms of appearance, little cigars are also different from traditional cigars. While traditional cigars are usually wrapped in long, smooth tobacco leaves, little cigars are wrapped in homogenized tobacco leaf or a tobacco paper. This means that little cigars have a firmer and smoother texture compared to traditional cigars. The use of homogenized tobacco also allows for a more consistent burn and eliminates the need for cutting the cigar, making them convenient for on-the-go smokers.

Now, let’s talk about the different types of little cigars available. Just like traditional cigars, little cigars come in a variety of flavors and styles. Some popular flavors include natural, menthol, cherry, and vanilla. These flavors are infused into the tobacco during the curing process, giving little cigars a tasty and unique flavor profile. For those who prefer a more traditional taste, there are also little cigars that are unflavored and offer a pure, tobacco taste.

In terms of styles, little cigars come in three main types – regular, filtered, and tipped. Regular little cigars are the most common and have an open end for smoking. Filtered little cigars, as the name suggests, have a filter at the end to reduce the amount of tar and nicotine in the smoke. Tipped little cigars have a plastic or wood tip at the end, providing a more refined and elegant look to the cigar. Each type offers a slightly different smoking experience, so it’s worth trying out all of them to see which one suits your preferences best.

Another great thing about little cigars is their affordability. They are generally cheaper than traditional cigars, making them a budget-friendly option for cigar enthusiasts. This also allows for experimentation with different flavors and styles without breaking the bank. However, don’t be fooled by their smaller size and lower price – little cigars can still offer a satisfying smoking experience.

Now, onto the most important part – the smoking experience. As mentioned earlier, little cigars have a smoother and milder flavor compared to traditional cigars. This makes them ideal for those who are new to cigars or for those who prefer a lighter smoke. The use of flue-cured tobacco gives little cigars a pleasant aroma and a subtle, yet enjoyable taste. I particularly enjoy the vanilla and cherry flavored little cigars as they offer a slightly sweeter and more unique smoking experience.

In terms of the actual smoking process, I have found that little cigars are very easy to light and have a consistent burn. Since they are smaller in size, you can easily hold them between the tips of your fingers, making them a convenient and comfortable smoke. The draw is also smooth and consistent, making for a relaxing smoking experience. However, I have noticed that the smoke production is not as abundant as traditional cigars, but this is not a major issue for me.

One thing to note is that, since little cigars are smaller, they do burn quicker compared to traditional cigars. This means that the smoking experience is shorter, which can be a downside for those who enjoy longer, more leisurely smokes. However, this also means that little cigars are a great option for smokers on-the-go or for those who want a quick smoke break during their busy day.

In terms of the packaging, little cigars are usually sold in packs of 10 or 20, making them more convenient to buy and carry around. They also come in a variety of boxes and tins, making them a great addition to any cigar collection. Personally, I like to have a few packs of little cigars with different flavors and styles in my collection, so I have a variety to choose from depending on my mood.

In conclusion, little cigars offer a unique and enjoyable smoking experience that is different from traditional cigars. They are affordable, convenient, and come in a variety of flavors and styles to suit different preferences. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned cigar enthusiast, I highly recommend giving little cigars a try. Who knows, you may just discover a new favorite smoke. Happy smoking!