As a lover of cigars, I have always been intrigued by the smaller, more compact version known as little cigars. While they may not have the same reputation or prestige as regular cigars, there is still a charm to these little smokes that cannot be denied. In this article, I will delve into the world of little cigars, exploring their history, flavors, and why they are becoming a popular choice among cigar enthusiasts.
History of Little Cigars
Little cigars have been around for quite some time, despite not being as well-known or talked about as regular cigars. In fact, they were first introduced in the late 1800s, when tobacco companies began to roll smaller cigars due to rising manufacturing costs. These smaller cigars, also known as cigarillos, were a more affordable option for cigar smokers and were often sold in packs rather than individual cigars. They were also seen as a more convenient option, especially for those who didn’t have the time to devote to a full-sized cigar.
During World War II, little cigars gained even more popularity as soldiers would often carry them as a quick and easy smoke on the battlefield. After the war, the popularity of little cigars declined, and they became somewhat of a niche product among cigar enthusiasts. However, with the rise of the cigar culture in the late 90s and early 2000s, little cigars once again gained attention and have continued to grow in popularity ever since.
Flavors of Little Cigars
One of the biggest draws of little cigars, besides their size and convenience, is the wide variety of flavors available. While regular cigars typically only come in a few variations such as natural, maduro, or infused, little cigars offer a plethora of flavors to choose from. These flavors range from traditional tobacco blends to more unique options such as vanilla, chocolate, and even fruity flavors like cherry and peach.
The reason for this variety is due to the way little cigars are made. Unlike regular cigars, which are made entirely of tobacco, little cigars contain a blend of tobacco and other additives such as natural and artificial flavors, sugars, and preservatives. These additives not only add flavor but also help to keep the cigar moist and prevent it from drying out.
Some may argue that the use of additives takes away from the purity of a cigar. However, others enjoy the added flavors and find little cigars to be a fun and flavorful alternative.
Why Little Cigars Are Gaining Popularity
Over the years, little cigars have slowly grown in popularity among cigar enthusiasts. There are a few reasons for this increase in interest, one being the affordability of little cigars compared to regular cigars. Due to their smaller size and use of additives, little cigars are often much cheaper than their full-sized counterparts. This makes them a more accessible option for those on a budget or for those who don’t want to commit to paying a higher price for a regular cigar.
Another reason for the rise in popularity of little cigars is their convenience. As mentioned before, little cigars were initially marketed as a more convenient alternative to regular cigars. With our busy and fast-paced lives, many people don’t have the time to sit and enjoy a full-sized cigar. Little cigars are the perfect solution, allowing for a quick and enjoyable smoke in a shorter period of time.
Additionally, little cigars appeal to a wider range of smokers, as opposed to regular cigars, which are often seen as a more refined and masculine pastime. Little cigars come in various flavors, making them more appealing to those who may not enjoy the traditional taste of a cigar. They are also easy to transport and can be enjoyed in a variety of settings, making them a more accessible option for beginners or casual smokers.
Final Thoughts
While little cigars may not have the same reputation or prestige as regular cigars, they certainly have their own charm and appeal. From their history to the wide range of flavors and their convenience, there are many reasons why these small cigars are gaining popularity among cigar enthusiasts. Whether you’re a seasoned cigar smoker or new to the world of cigars, little cigars are definitely worth giving a try. Who knows, you may just find a new favorite among these little smokes. So why not grab your favorite flavor and enjoy a little cigar today? Cheers!