As a cigar enthusiast, I have always been intrigued by the smaller version of cigars known as little cigars. While they may not have the same grandeur and reputation as traditional cigars, they have a unique appeal and charm of their own. In this article, I will share my knowledge and experience of little cigars, covering their history, types, flavors, and overall smoking experience.
History of Little Cigars
Little cigars have been around for centuries, with their origins tracing back to Spain in the late 16th century. These cigars were initially created as a way to use up the excess tobacco leaves that were too small or damaged to be used for traditional cigars. As these small cigars gained popularity, they were also known as “short” or “small” cigars in different regions across Europe.
In the US, little cigars became popular in the 20th century, particularly during the Prohibition era, when traditional cigars were difficult to obtain. These small cigars were often called “clear” or “cigarette cigars” due to their resemblance to cigarettes. It was only in the 1970s that the term “little cigars” became widely used to refer to these small cigars.
Types of Little Cigars
There are two main types of little cigars: machine-made and hand-rolled. Machine-made little cigars are mass-produced, using a blend of different tobacco leaves, and are often flavored. On the other hand, hand-rolled little cigars are made using premium tobacco leaves and are closer in quality to traditional cigars.
Little cigars are also classified by their size, ranging from cigarette-sized to slightly larger than traditional cigars. Some popular sizes include cigarillos, small cigars, and miniatures.
Flavors of Little Cigars
One of the unique aspects of little cigars is the wide variety of flavors available. Depending on the brand and type, little cigars can come in flavors such as cherry, vanilla, chocolate, and even fruity flavors like apple and grape. These flavors are added during the curing or infusion process, giving the cigars a distinct taste and aroma.
Many little cigars also come in menthol and clove flavors, offering a refreshing and spicy twist to the smoking experience. However, it is worth noting that the use of flavors in cigars has faced some controversy, with some arguing that it can make the cigars more appealing to youth.
Smoking Experience
Smoking a little cigar is a unique experience that differs from traditional cigars. Due to their smaller size, they have a shorter smoking time, which can range from 5 to 20 minutes. This makes them an ideal option for those who want a quick smoke break or do not have the time for a full-length cigar.
Lighting a little cigar is also different from traditional cigars. They can be lit similarly to cigarettes, using a lighter or match. However, some smokers prefer to use a cigar cutter to create a larger and more traditional smoking experience.
The flavor and aroma of little cigars can vary greatly, depending on the brand and type. Some may have a milder flavor, while others can be more robust and intense. The added flavors can also impact the overall taste, offering a unique and enjoyable smoking experience.
Benefits of Little Cigars
Besides their unique smoking experience and flavors, little cigars have some other benefits that make them popular among smokers. For one, they are more affordable than traditional cigars, making them accessible to a broader range of people. They also come in smaller packs, making them easier to carry and store compared to traditional cigars.
Little cigars also typically have a higher nicotine content than cigarettes, making them a good option for those looking for a more significant nicotine hit. Additionally, due to their smaller size, they produce less smoke, making them a good choice for indoor smoking.
In conclusion, little cigars may not have the same prestige and reputation as traditional cigars, but they offer a unique and enjoyable smoking experience. With a diverse range of flavors, sizes, and types, there is a little cigar for everyone to enjoy. Next time you want to try something different, give little cigars a chance, and you may be pleasantly surprised.