As someone who has always been curious about the world of cigars, I was intrigued when I first heard about little cigars. I had always associated cigars with large, robust smokes that were popular among wealthy businessmen and aficionados. But little cigars were something different, something that seemed more accessible to the average person. I decided to do some research and learn more about these small but mighty smokes.

Little cigars, also known as cigarillos, are essentially mini cigars that are smaller in size and often come in flavored varieties. They typically measure around 3 inches in length and have a ring gauge (diameter) of 20-22, much smaller than traditional cigars which can have a ring gauge of 40 or higher. This smaller size makes them more affordable and approachable for those who may be intimidated by traditional cigars.

One of the things that stood out to me about little cigars is their diverse range of flavors. While traditional cigars are usually only available in natural or maduro (dark) wrappers, little cigars come in a variety of flavors such as vanilla, cherry, and chocolate. These flavors are achieved through infusing the tobacco leaves with natural or artificial flavorings. Some even come in menthol and fruit flavors, appealing to those who prefer a sweeter or refreshing smoke.

Another aspect of little cigars that interested me is their packaging. Unlike traditional cigars which are usually sold in boxes, little cigars often come in packs of 10 or 20. This makes them more convenient to carry around and easier to try different flavors without committing to a large number of cigars. Some brands also offer individual cigarillos, making it even easier to sample different flavors.

I decided to try out a few different brands of little cigars to get a feel for their tastes and smoking experience. The first brand I tried was Swisher Sweets, a popular brand known for its sweet flavors. I opted for the peach flavor and was pleasantly surprised by the taste. The peach flavor was subtle but definitely present, and the smoke itself was smooth and easy to inhale. The smaller size of the cigarillo also made it a quicker smoke, perfect for a short break or a mild nicotine fix.

Next, I tried Black and Mild, another popular brand that is known for its strong, rich flavors. I chose the wine flavor and was immediately hit with a burst of fruity taste upon lighting up the cigarillo. The smoke was thicker and heavier than the Swisher Sweets, making it more akin to a traditional cigar in terms of body and strength. I could see why Black and Mild is a popular choice among cigar enthusiasts who enjoy a stronger smoke.

One thing I noticed while smoking the little cigars is that they burn much faster than traditional cigars. This is because they have a homogenized wrapper made of paper and tobacco, which burns quicker than the natural or tobacco leaf wrappers of traditional cigars. This may not be ideal for those who enjoy a longer smoke, but it does make little cigars more convenient for on-the-go smoking.

I also learned that little cigars are often referred to as “cigarette-sized cigars”, which makes sense given their smaller dimensions. This led me to wonder about the health implications of smoking little cigars compared to cigarettes. While little cigars do contain tobacco and are often inhaled like cigarettes, they are not subject to the same regulations as cigarettes. This means that they may not have the same health warnings and ingredient disclosures that are required for cigarettes. However, little cigars still contain nicotine and other harmful substances found in tobacco, so it is important to keep that in mind and smoke responsibly.

One thing that sets little cigars apart from traditional cigars is their affordability. With many brands offering packs for under $10, little cigars are a more budget-friendly option for those looking to enjoy a cigar experience without breaking the bank. This also makes them a popular choice among younger smokers who may be more price-conscious.

As I delved deeper into the world of little cigars, I discovered that they have been around for quite some time. In fact, they were first introduced in the 1970s as a cheaper alternative to traditional cigars. However, their popularity really took off in the 1990s when flavored cigarillos became a hit among younger smokers. Today, little cigars continue to be a popular choice among both experienced cigar smokers and those new to the cigar world.

In conclusion, little cigars are a unique and convenient option for those looking to enjoy a cigar experience. With their diverse range of flavors, affordable prices, and convenient packaging, they offer a more accessible entry point into the world of cigars. However, it is important to remember that little cigars still contain tobacco and nicotine, so they should be enjoyed responsibly. Whether you’re a seasoned cigar enthusiast or just looking to try something new, give little cigars a chance and see what they have to offer.