Different views and different threads - why a small cigar?

[Paulie]

Sounds about right to me.

[rokkitsci]

IMHO

"No cigar should be smaller than 5 x 50" - so sayeth rokkitsci.

Anything thinner or shorter screams "I'm gay and I'm trying to look manly by smoking this smelly piece of rolled up tobacco." Also holding true here is the age-old adage: "Bigger is better."

The shorter/thinner cigars take less time to smoke argument is the only marginally reasonable excuse for puffing a small stogie; however, I am of the firm belief that a larger cigar can be successfully smoked in stages if you know the proper way to relight it (documented in myriad places; I don't intend to reproduce Cigar Smoking 101, here).

The opposing viewpoint (which I happen to share) concerning larger cigars is that they can contain more, various type of leaf, thus can be more complex.

I do make some rare exceptions: the Nestor Plasencia Reserva Organica Nestico, at 4 3/4 x 36, is not only perfectly sized to last exactly one "walkies" around the block with the dog, but has a unique and marvelous flavo(u)r I've not encountered in any other cigar, even Reserva Organicas of different size; and the Cuban Crafters Brown Label Limited Reserve Figurado Botella, at 4 1/2 x 48, is simply one of the most fun cigars to smoke I've tried (you light the little tip, which looks like it ought to go in your mouth, and basically puff on it until you get to the fat part. Up ?til then, it?s a remarkably unremarkable little stogie. Once you get past the bump though, it turns into the Everlasting Gobstopper of cigars. You never know what the next puff is going to bring!).

Otherwise, give me a big, honking, "manly" cigar every time.

Chaps, very enlightening to read everything you have to say on the matter. I've churned it over, and so far from what we have here --

a) image is a factor - there is something pleasant about enjoying a larger cigar
b) quality is a major factor - in terms of flavour and construction
c) but smaller cigars come into play for convenience and when considering non-smokers who don't want to be outside for 2 hours.

I also think experience plays a role. As you all know, I've got a green P sign on my small stash of sticks, and do not feel 'ready' yet to delve into the larger beasts available. The experienced, on the other hand, are comfortable with the big sticks.

Not too far from the truth?

Deltawhisky

[deltawhisky]

Good stuff, Mr Sci!

[deltawhisky]

And also, chaps, I have posted a brief review of the Boli. Tubos. #3 a couple of minutes back, and can safely add to this thread that I would recommend the economic, well made stick to anyone interested in smaller 'lunchtime' burns.