How the Cigar Format Affects the Cigar's Flavor

Numerous factors are significant for the flavor of a fine cigar, including its wrapper. However, the format of the cigar also plays an essential role in how the "wrapper" unfolds, and consequently, in how the cigar’s aromas develop as a whole. There are multiple interactions that influence the wonderful taste of our rolled and pressed "tobacco rolls," sometimes less and sometimes more.

Format, Ring Gauge, and Mouthpiece

In general (but not without exception), one could say that smaller formats (with a smaller ring gauge) exhibit a denser and thus more complex aroma structure, and may even come across as spicier compared to the same cigar in a larger format (with a larger ring gauge). The reason for this could be the reduced airflow in a smaller size or smaller ring gauge, as there is less tobacco and therefore less surface area. This brings the "advantage" mentioned above, where the cigar may taste a bit more intense, but it requires a slower smoking speed (fewer puffs per minute) during the tasting process than a larger ring gauge. Otherwise, the cigar tends to heat up more quickly (a common "mistake" observed in inexperienced cigar smokers is "overheating" the cigar). However, there are also small, loosely rolled cigars and large-format cigars that are tightly packed. So, this theory doesn’t always hold up. It’s important to distinguish and compare the length and the diameter (ring gauge) of the "tobacco roll." For example, a small cigar with a large ring gauge can combine both classic features—an excellent example of this would certainly be the NUB!

Another aspect worth mentioning is the different mouthpieces. A Torpedo, Double Figurado, or a from Litto Gomez, for example, have a significant impact on the flavor and smoking experience due to the shape of the part of the cigar that touches the mouth. For all three mentioned cigars, the following theory can be proposed: The aromas of the tobaccos lit at the foot are transported toward the mouthpiece by the smoker's draw. As the area narrows around the cap or mouthpiece, the aromas are compressed through the tight tunnel and theoretically reach the taste buds more concentrated. One could think that the cigar tastes more intense the more compressed the aromas exit the cigar toward the mouth. This was something we recently observed with a remarkably flavorful . The sturdy ring gauge of the Double Robusto was significantly more subdued in taste, and it felt like there was a film covering the tongue, diminishing the cigar's flavor.

Blend Creation

It’s interesting (and challenging) to determine which format of the XY series was used as the basis for the blend or the cigar’s tobacco mixture. Which format—be it Corona, Robusto, or Figurado—was the standard? This information alone can positively influence your tasting experience and understanding, allowing for a more specific comparison of the different formats. Traditionally, manufacturers used smaller formats to develop their latest creations. Until a few years or decades ago, many often used a Corona as the standard for their blends. Today, however, it’s more common to use a Robusto. If the Robusto is used as the standard, can the Toro taste just as good? Do the tobaccos get scaled up based on their ratios, or does the master blender try to individually adjust the right balance for other formats (such as Panatela) using the principle of "trial and error" combined with experience?

You can only answer this question for yourself (!) if you take the time to sample any given cigar line in all available formats. Was it the Half Corona, Double Robusto, or perhaps the Churchill that tasted best? Whether the manufacturer truly used your favorite cigar as the "Max Mustermann" standard cigar may remain unknown. But you don’t need to know that—as long as you had fun, enjoyed yourself, and gained valuable experience!

Trends

What’s the current trend in the cigar scene? Over the past few years, it’s safe to say that "the bigger, the better" has been satisfying the flavor preferences of the cigar community. Large, even gigantic cigars with dimensions of 2.78 cm in diameter and nearly 18 cm in length ( ) are offered and enjoy great popularity. This trend has crossed over from overseas, specifically the USA, to us.

There’s no universal rule that large cigars taste worse or that smaller, slimmer ones necessarily taste better. Here, too, a cigar enthusiast will eventually be driven by curiosity and the excitement of discovery, realizing that a robust cigar can be just as enjoyable as a shorter one. Whether you’re holding the right format depends not only on your personal preferences but also on the situation. If it’s cold and chilly in the garden and you can’t enjoy your cigar indoors, you might opt for a smaller format. Or, if you have plenty of time for a long smoke, or just want a quick break, the smaller option might be the one. On a relaxed summer day lounging on the lawn, enjoying a work-free Saturday, you might reach for a Double Toro or Double Corona. You could, anyway.

Tastes vary, and so do formats. With that in mind, enjoy experimenting and savoring your cigars!