As a lover of cigars, I’ve always been intrigued by their smaller counterpart – little cigars. These petite smokes may be small in size, but they pack a punch in flavor and enjoyment. In this article, I will dive into the world of little cigars and share with you all the information you need to know about these tiny but mighty smokes.
First things first, what exactly are little cigars? Little cigars are essentially smaller versions of traditional cigars. They are typically hand-rolled and made with the same high-quality tobacco as their larger counterparts, but with a shorter and thinner shape. This makes them the perfect choice for those who prefer a quick and convenient smoke without compromising on taste.
One may wonder, why not just smoke a cigarette instead? While cigarettes and little cigars may appear similar, there is a significant difference in their composition and smoking experience. Little cigars are made with whole-leaf tobacco and have a natural tobacco wrapper, whereas cigarettes are made with a blend of tobacco and other additives, wrapped in paper. This results in a richer and more complex flavor profile for little cigars.
Another advantage of little cigars is their affordability. Compared to traditional cigars, which can be quite expensive, little cigars are a more budget-friendly option. This makes them appealing to beginners who want to explore the world of cigars without breaking the bank.
Many cigar aficionados may turn their noses up at little cigars, dismissing them as inferior or even questioning their classification as a cigar. However, little cigars have gained popularity in recent years and have even drawn the attention of big-name cigar brands, who have started producing their own versions of little cigars.
Now that we have a better understanding of what little cigars are, let’s delve into the different types available.
Flavored Little Cigars
One of the most significant differences between traditional cigars and little cigars is the availability of flavors. While traditional cigars typically come in natural or maduro (dark) wrappers, little cigars offer a wide array of flavors to choose from. These flavors range from fruity and sweet to bold and spicy, making them more appealing to those who may not enjoy the natural taste of tobacco. Some popular flavors include cherry, vanilla, and menthol.
For beginners, flavored little cigars can be a great introduction to the cigar world. They provide a smoother and more approachable smoking experience compared to traditional cigars, which can be quite strong for new smokers.
Filtered Little Cigars
Another type of little cigar is the filtered variety. Similar to cigarettes, filtered little cigars have a small cellulose filter at the end, making them even more convenient to smoke. The filter helps to reduce the harshness of the smoke, making it milder and easier on the throat. This type of little cigar is perfect for those who prefer a smoother smoking experience and may not be used to the full-bodied flavor of traditional cigars.
Non-Filtered Little Cigars
On the other hand, non-filtered little cigars are closer in composition to traditional cigars. These little cigars do not have a filter, which means the smoke is unfiltered and full-bodied. This type of little cigar is popular among seasoned cigar smokers who enjoy the full flavor and strength of a traditional cigar, but in a smaller and more convenient size.
Now that we’ve covered the different types of little cigars, let’s talk about why they are such a popular choice among smokers.
Convenience
One of the main reasons why little cigars have gained popularity is their convenience. As mentioned earlier, traditional cigars can take up to an hour to smoke, which may not always be practical, especially for those with busy lifestyles. Little cigars, on the other hand, can be smoked in as little as 10-15 minutes, making them the perfect choice for a quick break or a short commute.
Affordability
As mentioned earlier, little cigars are more budget-friendly compared to traditional cigars. This makes them a popular choice among beginners who may not want to invest in a pricier cigar until they are sure they enjoy the hobby. Additionally, little cigars are also a great option for everyday smokers who don’t want to spend a lot on their smoking habit.
Taste and Flavor Variety
Another reason why little cigars have gained popularity is their variety in taste and flavors. Whether you prefer a mild and sweet smoke or a bold and spicy one, there’s a little cigar out there for every taste preference. This variety allows smokers to experiment and explore different flavors without committing to a full-sized cigar.
Now that we know all about little cigars let’s address some common misconceptions and myths surrounding them.
Myth: Little cigars are the same as cigarettes.
As discussed earlier, there is a significant difference between little cigars and cigarettes. From their composition to their smoking experience, they are not the same. Little cigars are made with whole-leaf tobacco and have a natural tobacco wrapper, whereas cigarettes are made with a blend of tobacco and other additives, wrapped in paper.
Myth: Little cigars are not real cigars.
While little cigars may not be as large as traditional cigars, they are still hand-rolled and made with high-quality tobacco. They undergo similar production processes and are made with the same intention of creating a pleasurable smoking experience. Therefore, little cigars can be considered as “real” cigars.
In conclusion, little cigars may be small in size, but they have a lot to offer. They provide a convenient and budget-friendly option for those who enjoy the taste and experience of a cigar but may not have the time or means to smoke a traditional one. With their variety in flavors and types, there’s a little cigar out there for every taste preference. So why not give them a try and see for yourself why they’ve become a popular choice among cigar enthusiasts.