Do you feel like smoking cigars but prefer to start with something milder? Have you heard of cigarillos but don't know exactly what they are? Do you want to know more?
At Gentleman Lounge, we have the answers to your questions.
In this article, you will discover:
- The history of cigarillos
- How to smoke a cigarillo
- Where to buy them
You will know everything there is to know about these small cigars.
Without further ado, let's get to the heart of the matter.
What is a cigarillo?
Before we look at how to smoke one, let's explore the history of cigarillos. Where do they come from? When did they first appear?
Let's find out right now.
The history of cigarillos
We don't know exactly when or where the cigarillo was invented, but it goes way back. The word "cigarillo" first appeared in 1832. Spain having long dominated the cigar market, it is likely that the first cigarillos were Spanish. But it quickly became very popular on European markets and worldwide.
For a long time, many laws required manufacturers to roll their cigarillos by hand. It wasn't until 1950 that the use of machines was authorized. It was from then on that the cigarillo became truly known worldwide.
The main reason for the success of the cigarillo is that it reminds one of the taste of a cigar, but can be smoked much more quickly. It is therefore ideal for smoking cigars while traveling.
The cigarillo shares many characteristics with the cigar, the major difference being the size. The length of cigarillos varies from 6 cm to 9 cm and the diameter varies from 5 mm to 8 mm. It therefore contains less tobacco, making it less strong than a cigar.
The cigarillo is perfect for those who love the sensations of a cigar but generally find them too strong. You can also start with this if you want to discover the world of cigars.
When to smoke a cigarillo?
As we said earlier, the size of the cigarillo allows you to have it with you when you travel. This makes them perfect travel cigars.
But don't see cigarillos as just cigars that are consumed more quickly, they are also meant to be enjoyed like a cigar. They are, for example, perfect for enjoying a cocktail or relaxing after a meal.
How to smoke a cigarillo?
Now that you know more about the history of the cigarillo, let's look at how to smoke it. Just like with a cigar, there are certain rules to follow when smoking a cigarillo.
Let's take a look together.
Should you inhale a cigarillo?
The first question you should ask yourself if you've never smoked a cigarillo is about the smoke: should you inhale it? You may find different opinions on the question, but generally you should not inhale the smoke from a cigarillo.
A cigarillo is consumed like a cigar, you should keep the smoke in your mouth to appreciate the flavor, then release it without inhaling. If you want to learn more about how to smoke a cigar, check out our article on the subject: Why do people inhale cigars?
Also, keep in mind that a cigarillo contains much more nicotine than a cigarette, so if you inhale the smoke, you expose yourself much more to nicotine addiction.
What drink to accompany a cigarillo?
Just like with cigars, enjoying a cigarillo is above all a moment of relaxation, and you will certainly want to enjoy this moment with a drink. And you are right! Pairing cigarillos with an appropriate cocktail will enhance your cigarillo experience.
To choose the drink that will accompany your cigarillo, you must take into account the flavors of the cigarillo to complement the taste of the smoke. For example, a full-bodied and flavored cigarillo will go perfectly with a strong drink, while a light smoke will pair better with champagne or prosecco.
But it's up to you to discover the combinations that you enjoy, so don't hesitate to try different drinks with your cigarillos. If you want to learn more about how to pair cigars with drinks, we have an article on this subject: What to drink with a cigar?
Where to buy cigarillos?
Now that you know more about cigarillos, you are surely wondering where you can buy them. You will generally have no problem finding cigarillos, as most tobacco shops sell them. You will find many different cigarillos, including flavored ones, at tobacco shops.
But you can also find them in certain cigar cellars if you want to benefit from the advice of a professional. Moreover, the quality of cigarillos in cigar cellars will be much better than in tobacco shops.
Light up your cigarillo with style
Now that you know everything there is to know about cigarillos and how to smoke them, all that's left to do is to go buy some and enjoy one after a good meal.
And if you want to light up your cigarillo with an elegant and cigar-friendly lighter, take a look at our collection of cigar lighters. Click on the image below to access the collection.
