Monday, November 29 1999
Q. If all other things are equal, tobacco
blend,
binder,
wrapper, age, how does the shape of a cigar affect the smoking experience? - Bob Pletta
A. In the
case of a
Figurado, like a
Torpedo or
Pyramid, the tapered
head concentrates the smoke for a fuller flavor. Square-pressed or
box-pressed cigars burn longer (allegedly). The wider the cigar, generally the more full-flavored. A long cigar, like a
Churchill, that's also wide, will smoke cooler, whereas a Petit
Corona will smoke a bit hotter. But the blend is the key factor. I smoke a lot of Robustos, but lately I've found that I like
Lonsdale sizes more in certain brands. Try different shapes within the same brand until you find the one you like best.
