The Types of Cigars You Should Know About

There are many different types of cigars, with varieties in shape, size and colour which are referred to with different terms within the cigar smoking community. Each of these attributes will affect the overall smoking experience, offering different enticing encounters to each cigar smoker. 

Here are some of the key terms to know if you’re new to the decadent world of cigar smoking.   

Cigar Shapes and Sizes  

Parejos include the more common types of cigars, with straight sides and an open foot. These need to be cut prior to smoking. Different sizes of parejos have their own terms:   

• Corona – the standard size, usually five and a half to six inches and a ‘ring gauge’ of 42. 
• Petit corona – a smaller size, usually four and a half inches and a ring gauge of 40 to 42 
• Churchill – named for the famed Winston Churchill British Prime Minister. This is a larger corona measuring seven inches with a ring gauge of 47.   
• Robusto – a shorter but wider cigar, measuring 4 and three quarter to five and a half inches with a ring gauge of 48 to 52. This shape is popular in the US.   

Figurados are the more interestingly shaped types of cigar that have been increasing in popularity in recent years. These include:   

• Pyramid – These cigars have their heads tapered and are generally on the bigger side, widening their gauge towards the foot. 
• Perfecto – With both tapered heads and feet, these cigars vary in length and gauge.   
• Culebra – An extremely unique cigar, with three cigars braided together. These are usually unwrapped to share with others.   

Colours & Wraps

Cigars are wrapped in tobacco leaves, which vary in colour. From lightest to darkest the colours are double claro, claro, Colorado claro, Colorado, Colorado maduro, maduro, oscuro. The darkness of the wrap generally correlates to the strength of its taste.   

Regions

Much like wine, the location where the tobacco is grown will have an impact on its taste and characteristics due to variations in soil and nutrients, weather and other climate-based factors. Here are some of the more common:   

• Cuba – the most famous cigar producing region, the Cuban cigar is renowned for its spice and floral aromas. 
• Dominican Republic– cigars from the Dominican Republic are known for smooth and balanced flavours, with a wide variety of flavour profiles available that emphasise different notes. 
• Nicaragua – the Nicaraguan market produces cigars for a variety of experience levels, from the beginner to the true aficionado, with the region’s volcanic soil producing a sweet and earthy flavour with wide appeal. 

The Cigar Shop offers a wide variety of cigar types to suit any discerning taste. Check out our range of cigars to learn more.