little cigars filtered

As someone who enjoys the occasional cigar, I was intrigued when I first heard about little cigars. These small and often overlooked gems have gained a following in recent years, appealing to cigar enthusiasts and beginners alike. In this article, I will delve into the world of little cigars, exploring their history, flavors, and why you should give them a try.

So, what exactly are little cigars? To put it simply, they are smaller versions of traditional cigars. However, they differ in more ways than just size. Little cigars are typically made with a blend of short filler tobacco, which is a mixture of chopped tobacco leaves. This differs from traditional cigars, which are usually made with long filler tobacco, whole tobacco leaves that are rolled to form the cigar. This blend of short filler tobacco gives little cigars a different flavor profile and smoking experience compared to traditional cigars.

Little cigars also come in various shapes, with the most common being cigarillos, small and thin cigars that resemble cigarettes. However, they can also come in other shapes, such as mini cigars, which are shaped more like traditional cigars but are smaller in size. These varying shapes and sizes make little cigars more accessible to those who may find traditional cigars intimidating or overwhelming.

Now that we know what little cigars are, let’s take a trip back in time to explore their history. Little cigars first emerged in the late 19th century, around the same time when traditional cigars were gaining popularity. However, they did not gain much traction until the mid-20th century, when larger cigar companies began producing them as a cheaper alternative to traditional cigars. These little cigars were often made with lower quality tobacco and lacked the complexity and flavors of their larger counterparts.

In the 1960s, little cigars gained mainstream popularity due to their resemblance to cigarettes and their cheaper price point. They were marketed as a less harmful option for those trying to quit smoking cigarettes. However, they were not as popular among cigar enthusiasts due to their lower quality and simpler flavors.

Fast forward to the present day, and little cigars have been gaining a resurgence in popularity, especially among younger smokers. This is due to the emergence of craft little cigars, which are made with higher quality tobacco and offer a wider range of flavors. Moreover, with the rise of cigar lounges and smoking clubs, little cigars have found a place among traditional cigar enthusiasts as a quick and convenient smoke when a full-sized cigar may not be feasible.

One of the most significant draws of little cigars is their versatility in flavor. Unlike traditional cigars, which are often categorized by the country they are from, little cigars can be made with tobacco from various regions. This opens up a world of flavors, from the earthy and nutty notes of Nicaraguan tobacco to the spicy and bold flavors of Cuban tobacco. Additionally, little cigars often come in flavored options, such as vanilla, cherry, or honey, making them even more appealing to those who prefer a sweeter smoke.

The flavor profile of little cigars is also different from traditional cigars due to their blend of short filler tobacco. This results in a slightly milder smoke, making them an excellent option for those who are new to cigars or prefer a smoother smoking experience. However, don’t let their mildness fool you; little cigars still pack a punch of flavor and nicotine, making them a satisfying smoke for even the most seasoned cigar smokers.

Another perk of little cigars is their affordability. While traditional cigars can range from a few dollars to hundreds of dollars, little cigars are consistently more budget-friendly. This is due to the lower quality and shorter filler tobacco used in their production, making them an accessible option for those who may not want to splurge on a full-sized cigar.

Now, I know what some of you may be thinking, “But aren’t little cigars just glorified cigarettes?” While little cigars may resemble cigarettes in size and shape, they are not the same thing. Little cigars are made with tobacco leaves and do not contain the many additives that you find in cigarettes. Additionally, the way they are smoked and enjoyed is different from cigarettes, making them a unique option for those who want to elevate their smoking experience.

In conclusion, little cigars may be small in size, but they are significant in flavor and versatility. Their rich history and recent resurgence in popularity only add to their charm. Whether you are a traditional cigar enthusiast or new to the cigar world, I would highly recommend giving little cigars a try. With their affordable price, variety of flavors, and convenience, they may just become your go-to smoke. Happy smoking!