CIGARS

WHAT MAKES IT

By: Benjamin Flax

The term “premium cigar” can mean a few different things, but the key elements are that the cigar is made of mostly tobacco (cigars can use water and vegetable pectin in the process) and handrolled. That last part is my main focus today. Of course, when looking at a handmade item, there will be variations from person to person and brand to brand. Still, as an industry, cigar makers have followed a loose universality regarding sizes and shapes, also known as vitolas.

Vitolas give a quick reference to the length, width/ring gauge, and shape. Cigar length is measured in inches and width in 64th of an inch measurements. For example, a Pantela is 6x34, or six inches long and just over ½ inch wide. Some brands use standard names for vitolas, while others prefer to list the dimensions, and some want to make up new names—which is why one should know the details when selecting a smoke.

Robusto (5x50), Toro (6x50), Churchill (7x48), and Torpedo (6x48 with a pointed tip) are the most smoked cigars out of nearly 20 common cigar vitolas. These sizes, however, can range from the standard by ½ inch in length and 2-4 ring gauge sizes. So even with the common sizes, there is deviation. What does all this mean, and why is it important? First, let’s take away the variances of wrapper and filler (the type of tobacco used), the humidity and temperature storage, and how one cuts, lights, and draws a cigar for this part of the conversation. When looking only at vitola, a common thought is the longer a cigar, the longer the smoke time, or that a thicker ring gauge on the same length means a longer smoke. While not wholly untrue, it is not that simple. A thinner cigar will tend to burn hotter than a thinner ring gauge. The length of the cigar can then play into when the heat of the fire burns the mouth. If you like hot, spicy smoke, a Robusto can be a great option, whereas the Toro, which takes the same 45-60 minutes for smoking, will be a cooler draw. Length can add time, for sure, as a standard Churchill smokes for around 90 minutes.

The other consideration is cigar tip. Parejo means it has a traditional rounded cap versus a Figurado, which has a pointed cap. Therefore, if you are using a punch cutter, you cannot smoke a Figurado. However, depending on the depth of a v-cutter/ cat’s eye, you can use it on a Figurado. In short, Parejo is suitable for all types of cutters, and Figurado is best with a straight-cut.

Lastly, the thing to consider most is a personal preference. If you want a longer smoke but do not like needing to ash, go for a Gordo over a Churchill. If you never have more than 25 minutes to enjoy, opt for a Petit Corona rather than wasting half a cigar or trying to preserve an already lit cigar.

Every cigar is different, and some manufacturers recommend a specific size they think best highlights their tobacco and blend. Also, every cigar smoker is different. The reason so many vitolas are available is so you can find the right one. Don’t be afraid to try smaller or larger than your typical smoke — you might find one that you like better!

RECOMMENDATIONS:

Perdomo 10th Anniversary Sun Grown Boxed-Pressed Epicure

One of the newest releases from Perdomo replacing the classic orange-banded 10th Anniversary Sun Grown. This cigar maintains the flavors enjoyed with the original and enhances the experience with a tactile change of the boxed press, which also loosens the tobacco for a smoother and more consistent draw.

The Griffin’s #500 (Corona)

When looking for something light and quick to go with your coffee or pre-meal, this cigar delivers. From Davidoff, this is a taste of luxury and reasonably priced.

Oliva Serie G Cameroon Boxed-Pressed Churchill

My old standard. This was the first full box of cigars I purchased and always love having it in my humidor. Consistent through the years, the Cameroon wrapper brings in sweet and rich flavors perfect for a variety of situations.

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Benjamin Flax is a contributor for Mochers Magazine.

La Flor Dominicana Double Ligero Maduro Chiselito

If you’ve ever thought about having a cigar after the best steak of your life, this is the option for you. Full-bodied smoke that packs a punch with a captivating vitola.