An overview of the vocabulary around the cigar: The essential terms to know

The cigar world is steeped in a rich and specific terminology, reflecting a tradition that dates back centuries. Understanding this vocabulary is essential to fully appreciate the art of cigar tasting. This article offers an overview of cigar vocabulary, enriched with in-depth definitions and key concepts for cigar enthusiasts.

1. Vitola

The vitola refers to the shape and size of a cigar. It is a key element in determining the type of experience you will have when smoking a cigar. It encompasses the length and diameter, as well as the overall shape. Here are some common examples of vitolas:

• Robusto : One of the most popular sizes, 12 to 14 cm in length with a relatively large diameter, offering a dense draw and a moderate smoking time (around 45 minutes to 1 hour).
• Churchill : Long and elegant (17 to 18 cm), often associated with stronger, slower-burning cigars.
• Toro : Similar to the robusto but slightly longer (between 15 and 16 cm), often appreciated for its balance between length and diameter.
• Panatela : Thinner and longer, this classic format can offer faster combustion and more subtle flavors.
• Figurado : Cigar with non-cylindrical ends, like the Torpedo or the Pyramid , known for its smoking complexity.

Each vitola is designed to offer a unique experience in terms of draw, combustion, and aroma distribution.

2. Cape

The wrapper is the outer tobacco leaf of the cigar, often referred to as the "skin" of the cigar. The quality of the wrapper influences not only the appearance of the cigar, but also its taste and combustion. Here are some common types of wrapper:

• Connecticut : Known for its smooth texture and light, creamy flavors.
• Sumatra : Sourced primarily from Indonesia, it tends to offer spicy and earthy flavors.
• Habano : Originating from Cuba, this is a robust wrapper rich in spicy and peppery flavors.

The wrapper is carefully chosen for its texture, color, and its role in the overall balance of the cigar. A darker wrapper, such as the Maduro , will tend to offer sweeter and more powerful aromas.

3. Drawing

The draw refers to how easily the smoke passes through the cigar when smoking. A proper draw is crucial for a good smoking experience. A cigar that is too tight (difficult to draw) or too loose (too easy to draw) can ruin the enjoyment. The draw can be influenced by how the cigar was rolled and the quality of its construction.

• Tight Draw : This may indicate that the cigar is rolled too tightly, making it difficult to draw and burning unevenly.
• Easy Draw : Too loose a draw can result in too rapid a burn and reduced aroma intensity.

A good draw allows for a balanced experience, where the smoke diffuses smoothly, without excessive effort or excess heat.

4. Combustion

Combustion is an essential technical aspect of cigar smoking. It refers to how the cigar burns throughout the smoke. A good burn should be even and uniform. Here are some terms associated with combustion:

• Uneven burn : This occurs when the cigar does not burn evenly, with one part burning faster than the other. This can be due to imperfect construction or improper lighting.
• Core Burn : When the inner part of the cigar burns faster than the outer part, this may indicate a quality problem in the rolling or improper humidity.
• Ash : Dense, white ash is often a sign of good combustion and rolling. The length of the ash also reflects the quality of the cigar.

The art of lighting is also crucial to ensure a consistent burn. Slow and even lighting ensures an optimal smoking experience.

5. Aromas and Flavors

Aromas are the different flavors perceived when tasting a cigar. The richness and complexity of aromas vary depending on the origin of the tobacco, the aging process, and the fermentation process. Here are some common aromas found in cigars:

• Woody : Often associated with cigars aged in cedar or other exotic wood barrels.
• Spicy : Notes of pepper, cinnamon, or clove are common, especially in cigars from regions like Nicaragua.
• Cocoa : Some cigars offer rich, sweet flavors reminiscent of dark chocolate or cocoa.
• Leather : An earthy, musky note, common in older or long-fermented cigars.
• Floral : Light, delicate nuances, often present in cigars with lighter wrapper leaves.

The tasting tiers , or successive smoking phases, bring subtle changes in aromas. A cigar often begins with light flavors and develops in intensity as it is smoked.

6. Finishing

The finish of a cigar is an important aspect that speaks to the overall quality of the product. This concerns both the external appearance and the internal construction. A good finish means that the cigar has been rolled with precision, without visible defects such as tears, irregularities, or gaps in the wrapper. It also ensures an even burn and good flavor distribution.

The torcedores , the artisans who roll the cigars, play a crucial role in the quality of the finish. Their expertise and attention to detail are essential to creating a balanced and aesthetically perfect cigar.

7. Humidor and Cigar Humidor

A humidor is a container specially designed to store cigars at an optimal humidity level, usually around 65 to 70%. It is often made of Spanish cedar wood, which helps regulate humidity and preserve cigars for the long term. Proper humidification is essential to prevent cigars from drying out or becoming too moist.

Cigar humidors , larger than humidors, are spaces specially designed to store a large quantity of cigars. They are often equipped with temperature and humidity control systems to ensure that cigars remain fresh for long periods of time.

8. Other Key Cigar Terms

• Ligero : Tobacco leaf located at the top of the plant, exposed to the sun and providing strength and richness of aroma to the cigar.
• Seco : Intermediate tobacco leaf, providing milder and more balanced aromas.
• Volado : Leaf located at the bottom of the plant, used mainly for its regular combustion.
• Long Filler : Refers to premium cigars whose filler is made from long, whole leaves, as opposed to lower-quality cigars, which use chopped leaves.

Conclusion

The world of cigars is a universe rich in tradition, where each technical term adds to the sensory and cultural experience. By familiarizing yourself with this glossary, you will be able to fully understand and appreciate the subtleties of the cigars you smoke. Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned connoisseur, these terms will quickly become indispensable companions on your journey into the heart of the cigar universe.