cheyenne little cigars

As a lover of all things tobacco, one of my favorite indulgences has always been a good cigar. There’s nothing quite like the rich flavors and smooth draw of a premium cigar, but sometimes I don’t have the time or inclination for a full-sized smoke. That’s where little cigars come in.

Little cigars, also known as cigarillos or mini cigars, are small cigars that offer all the taste and experience of their larger counterparts in a more compact size. They may be smaller in stature, but don’t let their size fool you – these little guys pack a flavorful punch.

But what exactly are little cigars and how do they differ from cigarettes and premium cigars? In this article, I’ll take you on a journey through the world of little cigars, from their history and production to their different styles and flavors.

A Brief History of Little Cigars

Little cigars have been around for centuries, with the earliest mention of them tracing back to ancient Mayan and Aztec civilizations. These early cigars were much smaller than the ones we know today, and were primarily used for medicinal and religious purposes.

It wasn’t until the 1800s that little cigars began to gain popularity in Europe and the United States. At the time, they were seen as a more affordable and accessible alternative to premium cigars. However, the production and marketing of little cigars was heavily regulated, with many countries imposing strict laws on the size and construction of these small smokes.

It wasn’t until the mid-20th century that little cigars became widely available and popularized in the United States. With advancements in mass production and marketing, they became a staple in the tobacco industry and are now enjoyed by cigar enthusiasts and casual smokers alike.

Production and Characteristics of Little Cigars

So what exactly sets little cigars apart from other tobacco products? Let’s start with their size. Little cigars are typically 3 to 4 inches long, with a ring gauge (diameter) of 20 to 24 millimeters. This is significantly smaller than premium cigars, which can range from 5 to 8 inches in length and have a ring gauge of 40 to 64 millimeters.

Unlike premium cigars, which are made from whole tobacco leaves, little cigars are often made from a blend of chopped tobacco, filler, and binder. This allows for a quicker and more efficient production process, making little cigars more affordable than their larger counterparts.

One of the most significant differences between little cigars and cigarettes is their wrapper. While cigarettes use a thin, porous paper, little cigars are wrapped in a tobacco leaf or homogenized tobacco leaf (HTL). This gives little cigars a more natural and bold flavor, as well as a slower burn rate.

Styles and Flavors of Little Cigars

Little cigars come in a variety of styles and flavors, catering to different tastes and preferences. Here are some of the most common styles and flavors you may come across:

1. Filtered Little Cigars – These little cigars have a filter attached to them, similar to cigarettes. The filter helps to remove some of the harshness and bitterness of the tobacco, resulting in a smoother smoke.

2. Non-Filtered Little Cigars – As the name suggests, these little cigars do not have a filter. This allows for a more unadulterated and robust flavor.

3. Flavored Little Cigars – Flavored little cigars are infused with different flavors, such as vanilla, cherry, and chocolate. While these may not appeal to traditional cigar connoisseurs, they can be a great option for those who prefer a sweeter smoke.

4. Menthol Little Cigars – Similar to menthol cigarettes, menthol little cigars have a minty taste and cooling effect. These can be a refreshing choice for those who enjoy menthol tobacco products.

One of the most popular brands of little cigars on the market is Swisher Sweets, which offers a wide variety of styles and flavors to choose from. Some other brands include Black & Mild, Dutch Masters, and Game.

The Appeal of Little Cigars

So why do people choose to smoke little cigars over other tobacco products? One of the main appeals of little cigars is their size. Depending on the style and flavor, they can be smoked in as little as 10 to 20 minutes, making them a convenient option for those with busy lifestyles.

Additionally, little cigars often offer a more affordable option compared to premium cigars. They are also less intimidating to those who may be new to cigar smoking, as they are less expensive and not as time-consuming.

While little cigars may not have the same intricate and complex flavors as premium cigars, they still offer a satisfying and enjoyable smoking experience. And with their wide range of styles and flavors, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

In Conclusion

Little cigars may be small in size, but they certainly hold their own in the world of tobacco. Their rich history and unique production process make them a distinctive and beloved choice among smokers. Whether you prefer a filtered, flavored, or menthol little cigar, you are sure to find a style and flavor that suits your taste.

So next time you’re looking for a quick smoke that delivers on flavor and experience, don’t forget about little cigars. Trust me, these tiny pleasures are worth a try.