Growing up, I was always fascinated by the sight of my grandfather sitting on the porch, leisurely smoking a little cigar. The way he held it between his fingers, expertly tapping off the ash, and exhaling a cloud of smoke, it seemed like such a sophisticated and relaxing experience. As I got older, I became more intrigued by these little cigars and decided to do some research on what makes them unique and popular among cigar enthusiasts. Here’s what I found out.
What are Little Cigars?
Little cigars, also known as cigarillos or “small cigars,” are similar in appearance to traditional cigars but are significantly smaller in size. They are typically made with a blend of tobacco that is wrapped in a tobacco leaf and often come with a filter at one end. One of the main differences between little cigars and traditional cigars is the way they are made. Traditional cigars are made with whole tobacco leaves, while little cigars are made with small pieces of tobacco that are rolled together.
The History of Little Cigars
Little cigars have a rich history that dates back to the 19th century. They were first introduced in the United States in the late 1800s as a cheaper alternative to traditional cigars. With the rise of cigarette popularity in the early 20th century, the demand for little cigars declined. However, they made a comeback in the 1960s when the tax on traditional cigars began to increase, making them more expensive. This led to an increase in the production and consumption of little cigars, and they have remained a popular choice among smokers ever since.
Why Smoke Little Cigars?
One of the main reasons people choose to smoke little cigars is their affordability. They are significantly cheaper than traditional cigars, making them a more accessible option for those on a budget. They also come in a wide variety of flavors, making them a popular choice among those who prefer a sweeter or flavored smoke. Some of the most popular flavors include chocolate, vanilla, cherry, and peach.
Another reason little cigars are popular is their size. They are smaller and more compact, making them an ideal choice for a quick smoke break. Traditional cigars can take up to an hour or more to smoke, while little cigars can be enjoyed in just 10-15 minutes. This makes them a convenient option for those who want to indulge in a cigar but don’t have a lot of time to spare.
Types of Little Cigars
There are two main categories of little cigars: filtered and unfiltered. Filtered little cigars, as the name suggests, have a filter at one end to help reduce the harshness of the smoke. Unfiltered little cigars, on the other hand, do not have a filter, and the smoke is more intense and full-bodied. Both types have their own unique flavor and characteristics, and it ultimately comes down to personal preference.
Aside from the type, little cigars also come in various shapes and sizes. Some are straight and slim, while others are slightly curved and thicker. The shape can affect the draw and intensity of the smoke, so it’s important to try different shapes to find the one that suits you the best.
How to Smoke a Little Cigar
Smoking a little cigar may seem straightforward, but there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure you have an enjoyable experience. First, you’ll want to make sure you have a proper cutter to remove the cap from the cigar. You can also use a sharp knife or your teeth, but a cigar cutter will give you a cleaner cut.
Next, you’ll want to toast the end of the cigar before lighting it. This involves holding the flame just above the end of the cigar and rotating it slowly to heat the tobacco evenly. Once it’s toasted, you can light it by drawing the flame into the cigar while rotating it. Be sure to take slow, steady puffs to get the cigar fully lit.
As you smoke your little cigar, make sure to take your time and enjoy the flavors and aromas. Unlike cigarettes, little cigars are meant to be savored and enjoyed at a slower pace. If you need to put it out before you finish, you can simply tap off the ash and relight it when you’re ready to continue.
Final Thoughts
Little cigars have stood the test of time and have remained a popular choice among cigar enthusiasts for many reasons. They offer a convenient and affordable option for those who want to enjoy a cigar without breaking the bank or taking a lot of time. With a variety of flavors and sizes, there’s a little cigar out there for everyone. So next time you see someone smoking a little cigar, I hope you’ll remember the rich history and unique characteristics that make them so popular.