When it comes to smoking, many people immediately think of cigarettes or traditional cigars. However, there is another type of tobacco product that often goes unnoticed: little cigars. These petite versions of cigars may seem insignificant, but they have quite a following and a unique history. As a cigar enthusiast, I have tried my fair share of little cigars and have developed a fondness for them. In this article, I will introduce you to the world of little cigars and share what makes them so special.
First and foremost, let’s clarify what exactly a little cigar is. As the name suggests, they are smaller versions of traditional cigars. They typically have a length of about 3-4 inches and a ring gauge (diameter) of 20-26, compared to the average 5-6 inch length and 40-60 ring gauge of a regular cigar. They are made with similar techniques and ingredients as larger cigars, including a tobacco filler, binder, and wrapper. However, little cigars are often machine-made and may have a different blend of tobacco, resulting in a milder and smoother smoke.
The history of little cigars dates back to the 1920s, when tobacco companies began producing them as an alternative to traditional cigarettes. At that time, cigarettes were seen as a feminine and weak form of smoking, while cigars were associated with masculinity and strength. Little cigars were a way for companies to tap into the growing demand for cigars, while still appealing to those who preferred the convenience and flavor of cigarettes.
Little cigars gained more popularity in the 1950s, thanks to their affordability and the rise of tobacco advertising. They were marketed as a cheaper option for those who couldn’t afford expensive cigars, but still wanted to enjoy a similar smoking experience. However, little cigars faced a decline in the 1960s as cigarettes became more prominent and smoking regulations tightened. It wasn’t until the 1990s that they made a comeback, with the emergence of flavored little cigars and renewed interest in cigar culture.
One of the distinguishing features of little cigars is the wide variety of flavors available. While traditional cigars come in only a handful of flavors, little cigars offer a range of options such as cherry, vanilla, chocolate, and even fruit flavors. These flavors are achieved by infusing the tobacco with extracts or using flavored cigar paper. This makes little cigars a popular choice among those who prefer a sweeter smoke or are looking for a change from the typical tobacco flavor.
Speaking of tobacco, little cigars come in two main types: natural and flavored. Natural little cigars use tobacco leaves to create a rich and distinct flavor, while flavored little cigars use a mixture of tobacco and flavorings to achieve their unique taste. Both types offer a different smoking experience, but both are popular among little cigar enthusiasts.
Another factor that sets little cigars apart from their larger counterparts is their packaging. While traditional cigars are often sold in wooden boxes or tubes, little cigars often come in cartons or packs of 20 or 25. This makes them a convenient option for on-the-go smoking or for those who prefer to buy in bulk.
One thing to note about little cigars is that they are often mistakenly referred to as “cigarillos.” However, there is a slight difference between the two. Cigarillos are also smaller versions of traditional cigars, but they are made with 100% tobacco and are hand-rolled. On the other hand, little cigars may use homogenized tobacco wrapper or binder and are more commonly machine-made. Despite this minor difference, the terms “little cigar” and “cigarillo” are often used interchangeably in the tobacco industry.
Now that you are familiar with the background and unique characteristics of little cigars, let’s talk about why I personally enjoy them. As a cigar smoker, I appreciate the convenience and affordability of little cigars. They are perfect for when I don’t have the time to enjoy a full-sized cigar or when I want a milder smoke. I also love the wide range of flavors available, as it allows me to switch things up and try something new. And although they may not have the same prestige as traditional cigars, little cigars are still a part of cigar culture and hold their own in the world of tobacco products.
In conclusion, little cigars may be small in size, but they have a rich history and offer a unique smoking experience. They have evolved from a cheap alternative to cigarettes to becoming a popular choice among cigar enthusiasts. The variety of flavors, convenience, and affordability make them a go-to for many smokers. So next time you want to mix things up in your smoking routine, give little cigars a try and see for yourself what they have to offer.