Cigar Strengths: Meaning, Categories, Factors & More

Cigar strength refers to the nicotine content in a cigar. It also describes the physical impact on the smoker. Strength is often labeled as mild, medium, or full. It influences how a cigar affects your body. Like body and taste, strength is an important factor to consider when choosing a cigar.

Cigars with lower levels of nicotine, such as El Rey Del Mundo cigars, are classified as mild in strength. Those with higher levels are considered bold. If nicotine levels are somewhere in between, as with an H. Upmann No. 2, then the cigar strength is considered medium.

What Does “Cigar Strength” Mean?

Similar terminology is used to describe cigar strength and cigar body. This can really confuse things. So, it helps to understand the differences. Cigar strength represents a cigar’s nicotine level, while the body describes the character. It also describes how the cigar's flavor falls upon your palate. For example, some cigars have a moderate amount of nicotine. They are considered medium in strength.

If the flavor is bold and intense, the cigar is full-bodied. While you want each to complement the other, consider strength and body separately. This will help you choose your ideal cigar. This allows you to find cigars with an optimal level of strength, body, and taste. It also helps your tobacconist make better recommendations. These will be more suited to your tastes.

Cigars’ Main Strength Categories

The cigar strength scale is commonly split into three main strength levels – mild, medium, and full. These categories help smokers figure out what kind of nicotine kick to expect. It also indicates how it might impact their body. Take a look below to gain a better understanding of each.

Mild

Mild cigars are characterized by low nicotine content and an easygoing smoking experience. These are the ideal strength for someone just getting started out in the world of cigars. This is because of their low nicotine content (which is usually undetectable). They can be smoked at any time of the day – an ideal pick for those seeking a more relaxed and nuanced smoke.

Medium

Medium-strength cigars strike a balance between mild and full-bodied options. The smoke coming out of the cigar is designed to coat the mouth lightly. When it comes to strength – these cigars have a moderate quantity of nicotine present. Medium cigars are ideal for daily smokers. They're also great for those looking for a versatile, balanced experience.

Full

Full-strength cigars are known for their high nicotine content and bold smoking presence. These are ideal for those seeking an intense smoking experience. The smoke released from the cigar is usually dense and thick. They are capable of fully coating the mouth, leaving a strong aftertaste. Full-strength cigars are best reserved for experienced smokers with higher nicotine tolerance.

Factors That Influence Cigar Strength

Cigar strength is determined by several different factors:

• The type of tobacco used. Stronger leaves like ligero are known for containing more nicotine.
• The cigar’s size and shape also play a role. Each of these offers a unique experience based on blend and construction.
• Some people use a cigar strength chart. These can be useful tools for identification. Smaller ring gauges often feel stronger. Larger cigars, on the other hand, tend to smoke more smoothly.
• Many people believe that the color of a cigar’s wrapper is an indication of strength. This is a myth. Cigar wrappers do not accurately indicate the strength of a cigar. This is why it’s important to research your products first.

Tobacco Variety

The type of filler tobacco used is a major indicator of strength. Some varieties naturally contain more nicotine. The amount of a certain type of leaf used can affect how strong a cigar is. This is why blenders mix different tobacco to create a more balanced smoke. Ligero leaves, found at the top of the plant, soak up the most sun, making them the strongest and slowest to mature. This makes them the preferred leaf for full-strength cigars.

Size and Shape

Smaller ring gauges feel stronger due to concentrated smoke. Larger cigars, on the other hand, tend to burn slower and cooler. Because of this, slower burn allows the smoke to cool down before reaching the smoker. This results in an overall milder, smoother smoking experience.

Fermentation

Longer or hotter fermentation can reduce harshness and mellow strength. This helps soften the natural nicotine punch. Ultimately, this creates a more balanced, refined flavor profile. It also creates an easier smoking experience.

Country of Origin

Depending on where the tobacco leaves are grown, this can have a big impact on strength. Tobacco grown in certain regions (like Nicaragua) is usually much stronger. Nicaragua's soil is known to produce strong and spicy tobacco. Regions like the Dominican Republic, on the other hand, produce smoother, milder leaves.

How to Choose the Right Cigar Strength for You

There are several factors that come into play when choosing the ideal cigar strength. These include experience level, occasion, and experimentation. Below, you’ll find some practical tips to get started:

• Experience: If you’re a novice to the world of cigar smoking, milder strengths are best. They have smoother flavors and lower nicotine levels. However, if you’re more accustomed to the world of cigar smoking, medium to full strengths can be ideal. They offer a more intense experience with a bold punch.

• Tolerance: If you have a high tolerance, full-strength cigars will satisfy your cravings. These are best enjoyed by seasoned smokers looking for a robust cigar experience. This makes them a great option for those who don’t mind the nicotine hit.
• Occasion: Occasion also plays a crucial role in determining appropriate cigar strength. Mild cigars are great for casual, everyday smokes. Full-strength cigars, on the other hand, are perfect for relaxing after meals. These are times when you’re looking for something richer and more satisfying.
• Experimentation: No matter your experience level, don’t be afraid to try different strengths. As time moves on, you may find your preferences evolve. Beginners may enjoy experimenting with medium and full-strength cigars. These might have been avoided at the start of their smoking journey. Just be careful to increase your cigar strength gradually.

How to Increase in Cigar Strength

Below, you’ll find some practical tips for increasing cigar strength. These can be implemented over time, as a part of your daily smoking routine:

• Start Mild: It’s best to start out with milder cigars when attempting to build tolerance. These will help you get accustomed to the smoking process and effects of nicotine.
• Experiment Gradually: When starting the experimentation process, start with medium-strength cigars. These offer a slightly stronger nicotine hit and more complex flavors. This allows you to experience a balanced intensity.
• Listen To Your Body: When experimenting with different strengths – listen to your body. If you experience any dizziness or lightheadedness, switch back to a milder variety. Once you feel ready to start experimenting again, try moving at a more gradual pace.
• Take Regular Breaks: Make sure to take plenty of breaks in between cigars. You could try spacing out your stronger cigars by a few days or a week. This gives your body plenty of time to adjust to the process.
• Focus On Flavor: As you increase the strength, pay attention to the cigar’s flavor and body. Stronger cigars often have more complex profiles. Appreciating the flavors can help make the experience more enjoyable and balanced.

Picking a Cigar Based on Strength

Cigar strength plays a vital role in shaping your smoking experience. But, this doesn't have to be overwhelming. Understanding the differences between mild, medium, and full-strength cigars is important. It will help you to start navigating your smoking journey.

Begin with milder cigars to build tolerance. After this, you can then start exploring stronger options as you gain experience. Take your time, experiment, and discover your ideal cigar strength. Start your journey today with some of the best mild Cuban cigars available online.