Not all cigars are equal – each comes with a unique rich flavor palette, traditional design and expert craftsmanship. Whether you are a cigar enthusiast, or someone looking to get into smoking cigars, it is important to understand the different types, sizes and shapes of cigars so you can choose the kind that is right for you. Let’s take a closer look:

Types of Cigars

Cigars all have a similar structure and come in three parts: the wrapper, the filler, and the binder. Each of these different parts has an impact on its overall flavor and what it is like to smoke them. The most important element when it comes to the flavor is the wrapper of the cigar.

Wrapper

The outside layer of the cigar is known as the wrapper. Wrappers are classified by where they come from and the colour of them as they can range from light to very dark.

Corojo: This type of wrapper is known for its notes of spiciness and pepper. They have strong bold flavors and come from Cuba originally. However, it can now also be grown in other Central American regions such as Nicaragua and Honduras.

Connecticut: Connecticut wrappers originally come from the state they are named after and are much paler in shade. This gives it a smoother smoking experience and a milder taste. Some of the flavor profile includes sweetness, cream and nutty flavors. These milder flavors are perfect for those who are new to smoking cigars.

Maduro: Maduro wrappers have a more oily texture and are aged for longer to create an intensive flavor. These are perfect for those who are regular cigar smokers due to their deep and complex taste. Some flavor notes include spices, chocolate and hints of coffee.

Binder

The binder is the leaf that ensures the filler sticks together and keeps its shape. It is there for structure and support rather than having a strong flavor. It can impact the burn quality of the cigar, but the majority of the flavor notes are found in the filler and wrapper.

Filler

The filler of the cigar is made from tobacco leaves. These can therefore lead to a huge variety of flavour profiles depending on where the tobacco is grown. Expert tobacco blenders create some unique combinations so there is one that suits your favourite flavor profile.

Sizes and Shapes

Cigars come in a number of different shapes and sizes. They are usually identified by their ring gauge (diameter) and their length. These include:

Robusto

One of the most popular cigar sizes is the Robusto. This cigar is approximately 5 inches long and has a ring gauge of 50. The flavor of robustos are usually rich and intense while the compact size means it does not take too long to smoke.

Churchill

If you are looking for a bigger cigar, the Churchill is a super popular choice. Named after famous cigar smoker Winston Churchill, these 7 inch long, 47 ring gauge cigars are big and bold. As these cigars take longer to smoke, they are more tailored for a long, relaxed evening.

Petite Corona

The smallest type of cigar on our list is the petite corona. With a ring gauge of only 49 and a length of 4.5 inches, these cigars are fast to smoke but do not compromise on quality.

Toro

Falling somewhere between the Churchill and the Robusto is the Toro. This cigar is 6 inches long and has a ring gauge of 50. It has a longer smoking time than the Robusto, but still keeps some of the strong and intense flavors.

Why It Matters

If you are looking to find the perfect cigar for you- one that you will enjoy smoking, and savour the experience it is important to understand the basics of cigar size and flavor. This will allow you to choose one right for the occasion and your taste. Not only this, but it gives you an inside into the history and rich traditions of the cigar world so that you appreciate it even more.

So, the next time you visit your local cigar shop – take a closer look at the variety of cigars available using your new-found knowledge.