Understanding Cigar Sizes: From Corona to Gordo and Everything in Between

The world of cigars is as varied and intricate as it is delightful. Among the crucial aspects that influence a cigar's flavor and smoking time are its size and shape. Here, we’ll compare and contrast the popular cigar sizes and shapes to help novices and aficionados make informed choices.

A Brief Overview of Each Type of Cigar Size

1. Corona Cigars: A classic choice, Coronas typically measure around 5 1/4 inches in length with a ring gauge (diameter) of 42. They offer a balanced blend of filler and wrapper flavors, providing a medium-length smoke.
2. Churchill Cigars: Named after Winston Churchill, these cigars are longer, usually 7 inches, with a ring gauge of 47. They offer a prolonged, leisurely smoking experience with consistent flavor.
3. Robusto Cigars: Popular for their shorter smoking time, Robustos are usually 5 inches long with a 50-ring gauge. They provide a rich, intense flavor due to a higher proportion of filler to wrapper.
4. Cigarillo Cigars: These are the ‘minis’ of cigars. Cigarillos are short, about 3-4 inches, with a small ring gauge, ideal for a quick, flavorful smoke.
5. Perfecto Cigars: Unique in shape with a tapered, closed foot and a bulbous middle, Perfectos can vary in size. They require skill to roll, offering a complex smoke that changes as you go.
6. Torpedo Cigars: Recognizable by their pointed tip, which needs cutting, Torpedos are typically around 6 inches long. They concentrate the smoke and intensify the flavor.
7. Toro Cigars: A go-to size for many, Toros are generally 6 inches long with a 50-ring gauge. They offer a longer smoke than Robustos with similar flavor intensity.
8. Lancero Cigars: Long and slim, typically around 7.5 inches by a 38-ring gauge, Lanceros are known for their wrapper-dominated flavor profile and elegant appearance.
9. Belicoso Cigars: Similar to Torpedos but shorter, often 5 to 5 1/2 inches with a tapered head, Belicosos are great for experiencing a concentrated flavor in a shorter smoke.
10. Panetela Cigars: Slightly longer and thinner than Coronas, Panetelas offer a sophisticated, mild, and slow smoke. Length varies, but ring gauges are usually under 38.
11. Giant Cigars: As the name implies, these are large, often over 7 inches with a ring gauge of 60 or more. Giant cigars are meant for a prolonged, indulgent smoking experience.
12. Lonsdale Cigars: Typically measuring around 6 1/2 inches by 42 ring gauge, Lonsdales offer a longer smoke than Coronas with a similar balance of flavors.
13. Gordo Cigars: These are thick cigars, around 6 inches in length but with a large 60-ring gauge Gordo cigars provide a dense, rich smoke with a lot of volume.
14. Double Corona Cigars: Larger than standard Coronas, Double Coronas are about 7 1/2 to 8 inches long with a 49-52 ring gauge, ideal for a luxurious, long-lasting smoke.
15. Petit Corona Cigars: Smaller than Coronas, they measure about 4 1/2 inches with a ring gauge of 40. Petit Coronas are perfect for those who want a quick yet flavorful experience.

Each cigar size offers a unique experience, affecting not just the duration of your smoke but also the intensity and balance of flavors. Whether you prefer a quick, intense smoke or a long, leisurely experience, there’s a size for every preference and occasion.

Cigar Sizes Guide

A Deep Dive Into Each Type of Cigar Size

If you've ever felt overwhelmed by the variety of cigar sizes available, you're not alone. From the classic Corona to the hefty Gordo, each size offers a different smoking experience.

In this article, we'll break down what cigar sizes refer to, explore the different shapes you might encounter, and highlight some of the most common sizes like the Robusto and Churchill.

We'll also discuss how size can impact your smoking experience and provide tips on choosing the right cigar size for you. So sit back, relax, and let's dive into the world of cigar sizes.

What Are Cigar Sizes?

Understanding cigar sizes is essential for every cigar enthusiast, as it directly impacts the smoking experience. From the length to the ring gauge and different shapes, cigar sizes play a significant role in the enjoyment of various tobaccos and flavors.

The size of a cigar affects how the flavors and aromas are delivered during smoking. For instance, a larger ring gauge allows for a cooler and slower burn, which can enhance the complexity of the flavors. Different tobaccos, wrappers, fillers, and binders interact uniquely based on the size of the cigar, influencing the overall taste profile. Shapes such as parejos and figurados also impact the draw, burn rate, and even the intensity of the flavors experienced. Understanding these nuances can lead to a more tailored and enjoyable smoking session for enthusiasts.

What Does the Size of a Cigar Refer To?

The size of a cigar refers to its length and ring gauge, which are crucial measurements for determining the smoking experience and flavor intensity. Different shapes, such as Parejo and Figurado, further contribute to the overall enjoyment of smoking various tobaccos.

• Parejo cigars have a straight cylindrical shape with a rounded cap, offering a classic and straightforward smoking experience.

• On the other hand, Figurado cigars feature non-traditional shapes like torpedoes or perfectos, which can intensify flavors and provide unique smoking dynamics.

• When paired with different tobaccos such as the spicy Habano or the milder Connecticut Shade, the size and shape of the cigar play a significant role in how the flavors are delivered to the palate.

• For instance, a smaller ring gauge may concentrate flavors, while a longer cigar allows for a more gradual and complex flavor development.

What Are the Different Cigar Shapes?

Cigar shapes vary from classic Parejo to unique Figurado, each influencing the smoking experience differently. The choice of shape affects how tobaccos, wrappers, binders, and fillers interact during smoking, ultimately defining the flavor profile and complexity of the cigar.

Parejo cigars are known for their straight sides and rounded caps, providing a consistent and even burn. On the other hand, Figurado shapes like Torpedo and Belicoso taper towards the head, concentrating flavors for a more intense experience. The wrapper, the outermost leaf of the cigar, plays a crucial role in flavor and aesthetics, often adding notes of sweetness or spice. Binders help maintain the cigar's shape and ensure an even burn, while fillers, a blend of tobacco inside, contribute to the overall taste and strength. By choosing a shape that complements the desired flavor profile, enthusiasts can enhance their smoking enjoyment.

What Are the Most Common Cigar Sizes?

• Among the most common cigar sizes are the classic Corona, the popular Robusto, the versatile Toro, the elegant Churchill, and the bold Gordo. Each size offers a unique smoking experience in terms of flavor, strength, and complexity.

The Corona tends to deliver a refined and lighter smoke, often showcasing nuanced flavors with a moderate strength profile.

Robustos, on the other hand, are known for their compact size yet ample flavor production, making them a favorite choice for many aficionados.

Toro cigars strike a balance between flavor intensity and burn time, allowing for a more extended smoking session.

Churchills, with their elongated shape, provide a sophisticated smoking experience, often characterized by a smooth draw and complex flavor transitions.

Gordos offer a bolder smoking experience, typically packing a punch in terms of strength and intensity, making them ideal for those who enjoy a full-bodied cigar.

Corona

The Corona is a classic cigar size known for its balanced smoking experience and rich flavor profile. Its medium length and moderate ring gauge make it a versatile choice for various tobaccos, wrappers, and smoking occasions.

Corona cigars typically range from 5.25 to 6 inches in length with a ring gauge between 42 to 46, providing an ideal smoking duration for enthusiasts who appreciate a flavorful yet not overpowering smoke. The size allows for a perfect balance between the filler, binder, and wrapper tobaccos, resulting in a harmonious blend of flavors.

The selection of wrapper leaf plays a crucial role in influencing the overall taste of the Corona cigar, with options ranging from Connecticut Shade for a milder profile to Habano for a spicier kick. Popular tobaccos such as Nicaraguan, Dominican, and Ecuadorian are often featured in Corona cigars, offering a diverse range of flavor profiles including earthy, nutty, spicy, and creamy notes.

Robusto

Robusto cigars are known for their compact size, robust flavors, and excellent construction. Their medium strength, ideal draw, and versatility in pairing with various beverages make them a favorite among cigar enthusiasts. Similar to the Corona, but slightly shorter and thinner, the Robusto is a favorite among cigar smokers worldwide.

These cigars typically measure around 5 inches in length with a ring gauge of 50, providing smokers with a satisfying smoking experience that isn't overly time-consuming. The robust flavors often exhibit a perfect balance of earthy notes, hints of spice, and sometimes a touch of sweetness.

Renowned cigar brands such as Cohiba, Montecristo, and Romeo y Julieta offer exceptional Robusto selections, known for their consistent quality and complex flavor profiles. When enjoying a Robusto cigar, aficionados often opt for pairings like aged rum, bourbon, or a bold red wine to complement the robust flavors.

Toro

Toro cigars are known for their generous length, allowing for a complex and aromatic smoking experience. The extended burn time of Toros also enhances the aging potential of these cigars, resulting in richer flavors over time.

These cigars typically measure around 6 to 6 1/2 inches in length with a ring gauge ranging from 50 to 56, providing ample room for a carefully balanced blend of tobacco leaves. The complexity of flavors found in Toro cigars is often attributed to the blend of different tobaccos from regions like Nicaragua, Dominican Republic, and Honduras. When aged properly, Toros develop a refined taste profile, with notes of cedar, leather, and spice becoming more pronounced.

Churchill

Churchill cigars, named after the iconic British leader, are celebrated for their lengthy smoke duration, smooth draw, and even burn. Their complexity and flavor nuances require proper storage conditions to maintain their quality over time.

These cigars are known for providing a leisurely smoking experience, allowing enthusiasts to savor their rich flavors and aromas. The draw quality of Churchill cigars is often praised for being smooth and consistent, making each puff a delightful experience. The even burn of these cigars ensures a balanced and enjoyable smoking session from start to finish. The complexity and depth of flavors in Churchill cigars make them a favorite among seasoned smokers looking for a nuanced taste profile.

To preserve these characteristics, it is essential to store Churchill cigars in a humidor with proper humidity levels. Maintaining a relative humidity between 65-72% and a temperature of around 65-70 degrees Fahrenheit is ideal for long-term storage. Rotating the cigars in the humidor periodically helps to ensure an even distribution of flavors. By following these cigar storage techniques, enthusiasts can enjoy their Churchill cigars at their best for extended periods.

Gordo

Gordo cigars, known for their large ring gauge, offer a bold smoking experience with ample strength and an extended burn time. The wide diameter of Gordo cigars allows for complex flavor profiles and enhanced smoking duration.

This size of the Gordo cigar not only provides a longer-lasting smoke but also allows for the different tobacco blends to harmoniously interact, creating a multi-dimensional flavor experience.

It is recommended to smoke Gordo cigars at a slower pace to fully appreciate the nuances of the flavors that unfold throughout the smoke. By taking your time and savoring each draw, you can unlock the full potential of the rich and diverse taste profile of Gordo cigars.

How Do Cigar Sizes Affect the Smoking Experience?

Cigar sizes play a crucial role in shaping the smoking experience by influencing factors such as length, ring gauge, strength, and burn time. Understanding how these size parameters interact is key to selecting cigars that best align with individual preferences and enjoyment.

The length of a cigar affects the overall smoking time, with longer cigars offering a more extended smoking experience. A larger ring gauge can lead to cooler smoke due to better air circulation within the cigar. The strength of a cigar is often correlated with its size, with larger cigars typically containing more tobacco. This can impact the intensity of flavors experienced during the smoke. The burn time of a cigar is influenced by its size, with thicker cigars burning slower than thinner ones, allowing for a more leisurely smoking pace.

Length

The length of a cigar directly affects the smoking duration and overall smoking technique required.

Longer cigars not only provide an extended smoking experience but also offer enthusiasts the opportunity to witness a gradual evolution of flavors as the cigar ages. The increased length allows for a slower burn rate, allowing the flavors to develop more intricately over time.

Short cigars, such as Robustos and Cigarillos, offer a quick yet satisfying smoking experience, perfect for those with limited time. Despite their compact size, they pack a flavorful punch, providing a concentrated taste and aroma.

To best enjoy longer cigars, it is recommended to pace the smoking, savoring each draw to fully appreciate the complexity of the blend. Rotating the cigar gently while smoking can help ensure an even burn, enhancing the overall flavor profile.

Ring Gauge

The ring gauge of a cigar influences its construction quality, aromatic profile, and visual appeal. Cigars with larger ring gauges often display intricate bands that add aesthetic value to the smoking experience.

As the ring gauge of a cigar increases, it not only affects the burn rate and draw but also plays a pivotal role in shaping the overall flavor profile. The size of the ring gauge can impact the aroma intensity experienced during smoking. The detailed bands found on cigars with larger ring gauges are designed to make a statement and elevate the visual presentation of the cigar.

Well-known cigar brands such as Cohiba, Arturo Fuente, and Macanudo are recognized for their elaborate and eye-catching bands that have become synonymous with their signature offerings.

Strength

The strength of a cigar, influenced by its size, wrapper, and filler blend, defines the intensity of the smoking experience in terms of flavor, complexity, draw resistance, and aging potential. Understanding the strength level is crucial for selecting cigars that match individual preferences.

Cigars come in a range of strengths, from mild to full-bodied, depending on factors such as the length and ring gauge of the cigar, the type of wrapper used (Connecticut, Habano, Maduro, etc.), and the composition of the filler tobacco (often a blend of different leaves).

These elements interact to create a unique smoking experience that experienced aficionados can appreciate. While some smokers prefer milder cigars for their smoothness and subtle flavors, others seek out the robust intensity of a full-bodied smoke. Aging can also temper the strength of a cigar, mellowing out harsh edges and allowing nuanced flavors to emerge.

Cigars like the Ashton VSG, known for its bold profile, and the Arturo Fuente Hemingway series, prized for its balance of strength and flavor complexity, exemplify the diverse strength profiles available in the world of premium cigars.

Burn Time

The burn time of a cigar, determined by its size and construction, influences the overall smoking experience and dictates pairing preferences. Cigars with longer burn times offer extended enjoyment and aging potential, making them ideal for leisurely smoking sessions.

On the other hand, cigars with shorter burn times are perfect for those seeking a quicker smoke or who may not have as much time to dedicate to a cigar.

Understanding the burn time of a cigar is crucial when considering which drink to pair it with. For a slow-burning cigar, a robust whiskey or aged rum can complement the gradual evolution of flavors, while a faster-burning cigar may pair better with a crisp beer or refreshing cocktail.

Aging plays a significant role in a cigar’s burn characteristics, with properly aged cigars often exhibiting smoother burns and more nuanced flavors.

How to Choose the Right Cigar Size for You?

Choosing the right cigar size involves considering personal preferences, available smoking time, occasion, and potential drink pairings. Tailoring the cigar size selection to align with individual tastes and circumstances enhances the overall smoking experience.

For example, if one enjoys a quick smoke during a short break, a smaller cigar like a Petit Corona or a Corona could be ideal. These sizes offer a shorter smoking time, perfect for those on the go.

On the other hand, for a leisurely evening with friends or at a celebration, opting for a larger size like a Churchill or a Double Corona allows for a longer, more relaxed smoking experience.

Pairing a robust Maduro cigar with a glass of aged whiskey or a creamy Scotch can evoke rich flavors that complement each other perfectly, enhancing the sensory journey.

Personal Preference

When choosing a cigar size, personal preference plays a key role in deciding the flavor profile, strength level, and overall smoking complexity that aligns with individual tastes. Understanding one's preferences is essential for selecting cigars that deliver a satisfying smoking experience.

Factors like wrapper, filler, and binder composition contribute to the flavor nuances experienced when smoking a cigar, making it crucial to match the size to one's palate. For those who enjoy bold, full-bodied flavors, opting for a larger ring gauge might intensify the taste experience, while aficionados seeking milder smoke may prefer slender sizes. Experimenting with different sizes allows enthusiasts to explore a range of flavor profiles and uncover the nuances that resonate with their unique palate preferences.

Time Available

The time available for smoking influences the choice of cigar size, as longer cigars require a leisurely smoking pace while shorter ones suit time-constrained smokers. Longer cigars also offer better aging potential for those seeking to enhance flavor development.

Shorter cigar sizes, like Coronas or Petite Coronas, are perfect for a quick smoke break or when you have limited time. These sizes typically burn faster, allowing you to enjoy a satisfying puff without committing to a lengthy session.

On the other hand, larger sizes such as Churchills or Double Coronas are ideal for extended relaxation periods, allowing you to savor the complexities of the blend over an extended period.

To make the most of your smoking experience within time constraints, consider using techniques like puff intervals or retrohaling to intensify flavors and aromas.

Remember, the size of a cigar not only impacts its smoking time but also plays a role in how it ages. Opting for larger cigars can often result in a more pronounced evolution of flavors and increased complexity over time.

Occasion

Choosing a cigar size based on the occasion enhances the overall smoking experience, as certain sizes are more fitting for celebratory events while others suit casual gatherings. Matching the cigar size to the occasion ensures a harmonious and enjoyable smoking session.

1. For formal celebrations such as weddings or milestone achievements, opting for a longer cigar like a Churchill or Double Corona can add a sense of sophistication and elegance. These sizes allow for a leisurely smoke that complements the ambiance of such special occasions.
2. On the other hand, for relaxed gatherings with friends or during outdoor activities, a shorter Robusto or Petit Corona may be more suitable, offering a quicker smoke with intense flavors that pair well with casual conversations and socializing.

Tailoring the cigar size to the event can elevate the experience and create lasting memories.

Pairing with Drinks

Pairing cigars with suitable drinks enhances the sensory experience by harmonizing flavors, strength levels, and complexity profiles. Understanding how different cigar sizes complement specific beverages allows enthusiasts to create delightful combinations that elevate overall enjoyment.

When choosing a beverage to accompany a cigar, it's essential to consider the flavor synergies that can be achieved. For example, a full-bodied cigar may pair well with a robust whiskey to match its bold flavors. Conversely, a lighter cigar could be complemented by a crisp white wine or even a refreshing craft beer.

By experimenting with various pairings, enthusiasts can unlock a world of unique flavor combinations that cater to their individual preferences and bring out the best in both the cigar and the drink.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the different sizes of cigars available?

Cigars come in various sizes, ranging from small to large. These include Corona, Churchill, Robusto, Toro, and Gordo.

What is a Corona cigar?

A Corona cigar is a standard size that measures around 5 ½ inches in length with a ring gauge of 42. It is a popular size for many cigar smokers.

How big is a Churchill cigar?

A Churchill cigar is a longer and thicker version of a Corona, measuring around 7 inches in length with a ring gauge of 50 or more. It is a popular size among experienced cigar smokers.

What is a Robusto cigar?

A Robusto cigar is a shorter and thicker version of a Corona, measuring around 5 inches in length with a ring gauge of 50. It is a popular size for those who prefer a bolder smoke.

What is a Toro cigar?

A Toro cigar is similar in length to a Churchill, measuring around 6 inches in length. However, it has a thicker ring gauge of around 52. It is a popular size for those who want a longer smoking experience.

What is a Gordo cigar?

A Gordo cigar is the largest size available, measuring around 6 inches in length with a ring gauge of 60 or more. It is a popular size for those who want a longer smoking time and a bolder flavor.