Does Size Really Matter?

When picking out your cigar, you may wonder: does the size and shape I choose really make any difference? While what type of tobacco you choose is more important, the size and shape can alter your cigar experience.

How do you even figure out size? Measurements are in inches. The ring gauge is the diameter of the cigar, measured by 64th of an inch. Generally, the larger the ring gauge, the fuller the taste. The shorter the cigar, the hotter the smoke gets.

What about shape then? There are two types of cigar shapes. First, there are the straight-sided cigars (parejos). Many parejos have different names, based on their size. For example, a Robusto is short and wide. Other examples of parejos are: Churchill, Corona, Carlota, Lonsdale, and Toro (to only name a few!).

Second, there are irregularly shaped cigars (figarados). While there are many types of figarados, here are a few examples:
Presidente: Parejo shape but considered a figarago due to its enormous size
Culebras: Three long, pointed cigars braided together
Perfecto: Tapered on both ends, with a bulge in the middle
Pyramid: Small head and much wider foot
Torpedo: Pointed head with straight body
there are also exotic shapes like chilli peppers, baseball bats, footballs, etc

Tags: cigar smoke, cigars, tobacco