It was just a few years ago when we noticed smokers cutting back to shorter or quicker-smoking cigars.  But recently, perhaps with the increase of cigar lounges or perhaps in "revolt" against smoking regulations, many smokers are asking for longer-smoking cigars. The trend first started with 50 ring gauge cigars–which are definitely big. But even those are starting to look small compared to the gigantic 60 ring gauge cigars found at tobacconists today. It seems more and more often, cigar smokers are savoring their sticks and saying, "I’m going to smoke a cigar and I want to relax and enjoy it and not rush through the experience."  That’s fine by us here at The Cigar Life. When you slow down to savor a cigar, you tend to think more about what you are smoking and can pick up more of the complexities these large cigars offer.

 

To meet the current trends of cigar smokers there are some fantastic 6-inch, 60 ring cigars in the market, including the new vitola from the Romeo y Julieta Reserva Real line.

 

It takes incredible skill from a cigar master to blend a truly nuanced cigar when the ring is that big. As you can imagine, 60 rings take a lot of tobacco and you have to get the mix just right in order to maintain that wonderful balance and keep the smoke true to the original blend.  

 

One thing to consider before running to your local tobacconist and stocking your humidor full of large ring cigars is that they take a considerable amount of time to smoke. If you have a man cave or a nice outdoor area where you can relax and light up, then no problem there. If you’re like me and don’t have those options, either find a local cigar lounge with good company or enjoy your cigar at the beach or park (assuming you’re not in NYC). 

 

No matter where you enjoy cigars, make sure to visit your local tobacconist and try all different sizes. Each will offer different smoking characteristics. How does a shorter, hotter burn affect the flavor of the cigar? What about a larger ring gauge with more filler tobacco? Find the ones you like the most and enjoy the ride.