Cigars come in a wide variety of shapes and sizes, much like the flavors they offer. Understanding these distinctions not only improves your smoking experience but also allows you to select the ideal cigar for every occasion. Here are a few things to know when it comes to the various shapes and sizes of cigars.
Length and Ring Gauge
Cigars are classified by length and ring gauge, which measures the diameter of the cigar in 64ths of an inch. For example, a cigar with a 50-ring gauge is 50/64 inch thick. The combination of length and thickness influences smoking time, flavor intensity, and how the cigar pulls when smoked.
Popular Cigar Shapes
- Straight-sided cigars, or Parejos, are the basic cigar shape. They include familiar types like the Robusto, Corona, Lonsdale, and Churchill. Their shape is consistent, allowing for an equal burn and balanced pull.
- Figurados have unusual shapes, such as torpedoes, pyramids, or perfecto cigars, which makes them more visually appealing to some cigar smokers. Additionally, because of their design, they offer a unique smoking experience that increases flavor at different points.
- Cigarillos are small, short cigars that are ideal for quick smoking. They’re often thinner than conventional cigars and ideal for those who desire flavor without committing to a lengthy smoking session.
Cigar sizes vary greatly within these popular cigar shapes. For instance, a Robusto is typically 5 inches long with a 50-ring gauge and provides a medium-length smoke, while a Churchill is longer, generally 7 inches, and suitable for a more leisurely session. Meanwhile, a Lonsdale falls somewhere in the middle, blending elegance with reasonable smoking time.
Choosing the proper size and shape relies on your preferences, the occasion, and how much time you want to spend appreciating the cigar. Experimenting with different sizes and shapes allows you to discover which cigars best suit your taste and lifestyle.