harvest little cigars
As someone who loves cigars, I have always been curious about the smaller version of this classic smoking indulgence – little cigars. I have tried them on a few occasions and have been pleasantly surprised by the depth of flavor and uniqueness they offer. In this article, I will share my experience and knowledge about little cigars, from their history to their different types and how to properly enjoy them.
Firstly, let’s define what exactly a little cigar is. Unlike traditional cigars, which are typically larger and hand-rolled, little cigars are machine-made and are smaller in size. They are also commonly referred to as cigarillos or cigarritos. Their size can vary, but they are generally around 3 inches in length and have a ring gauge (the diameter of the cigar in 64ths of an inch) of 20 or below.
The History of Little Cigars
The origin of little cigars can be traced back to Spain in the late 1800s. Cigar manufacturers saw a demand for a smaller, more affordable version of the traditional cigar, and thus began producing smaller machine-made cigars. They were also popular among women, who were not allowed to smoke larger cigars in public at the time.
It wasn’t until the 1960s that little cigars gained mass popularity in the United States, thanks to the introduction of flavored little cigars by companies like Swisher Sweets and White Owl. These flavored little cigars became particularly popular among young adults and were seen as a cheaper alternative to cigarettes.
Types of Little Cigars
There are a few different types of little cigars available in the market. Let’s take a look at the most common ones:
1. Natural Wrapper Little Cigars
These are made with a natural leaf wrapper and are considered to be the closest to traditional cigars in terms of flavor and aroma. They are also usually more expensive than other types of little cigars. Some popular natural wrapper little cigars include Macanudo Ascot and Romeo y Julieta Miniaturas.
2. Homogenized Wrapper Little Cigars
These are made with homogenized tobacco leaf wrappers, which are essentially reconstituted tobacco leaves. They are usually cheaper than natural wrapper little cigars and have a different flavor profile. Some popular homogenized wrapper little cigars include Captain Black, Black & Mild, and Dutch Masters.
3. Filtered Little Cigars
As the name suggests, these little cigars have a filter on one end to provide a smoother smoking experience. They are also usually milder in flavor and are a popular choice among those trying out little cigars for the first time. Some popular filtered little cigars include Winchester Little Cigars and Cheyenne Filtered Cigars.
How to Enjoy Little Cigars
Now that we know the different types of little cigars, let’s talk about how to properly enjoy them. Here are a few tips to make the most out of your little cigar experience:
1. Choose the Right Size and Flavor
Little cigars come in a variety of flavors, from traditional tobacco to fruity and sweet. Experiment with different sizes and flavors to find the one that suits your taste buds the best.
2. Cut or Pierce the Cigar
Unlike traditional cigars, little cigars do not require cutting because they usually come with a pre-cut end. However, if you prefer a bigger draw, you can use a cigar punch or a cigar cutter to make a hole in the end.
3. Toast the Foot of the Cigar
To get an even burn, toast the foot of the cigar by holding the flame close to the end and rotating it slowly. This will also help in lighting the cigar evenly.
4. Smoke Slowly and Don’t Inhale
Little cigars are meant to be enjoyed slowly, just like traditional cigars. Take small and steady puffs, and don’t inhale the smoke into your lungs.
5. Cleanse Your Palate
To fully enjoy the flavor of a little cigar, make sure to cleanse your palate before and after smoking. You can do this by having some water or a piece of fruit between puffs.
6. Properly Dispose of Your Cigar
Unlike traditional cigars, little cigars tend to burn out quickly. Once you have finished smoking, make sure to properly dispose of your cigar in an ashtray or a designated smoking area.
In conclusion, little cigars may be smaller in size, but they definitely pack a punch in terms of flavor. As with any form of smoking, it is important to use caution and moderation when enjoying little cigars. And remember, always choose quality over quantity when it comes to indulging in these little smokes. Happy smoking!