What Size Is Best For You?

How does one select the best size or gauge of cigar? Well there are a few factors to consider. Time, place, strength, and flavor are just a few. The experience you wish to gain from smoking your cigar will always determine the size or gauge you wish to smoke.

This week, I will focus on the most common size cigars that are smoked. The Corona, Robusto, Toro, and Lancero are the cigars that are mostly talked about and reviewed. All of which provide a great smoking experience, but the question is which is better? Let’s talk about each one and decide.

CORONA

The Corona typically has been said to be the standard in which most cigars are made. The general size is usually 5 1/2 x 42. This size cigar is good to enjoy if you’re not in to lathe ring gauges. The Corona also provides good flavor because of its size and lack of fillers that most larger ring gauges have. Given the size, the Corona is about a 30-40 minute smoke. So if you are having a business meeting or just need a quick smoke during lunch break, this would be a great size to enjoy.

ROBUSTO

The Robusto is said to be the most popular size of cigar because of the amount of smoke and the time to enjoy it. Generally measuring at 5 x 50, some tobacconist recommend this size when smoking a new cigar. The Robusto provides a good amount of flavor and does not burn hot like the Corona or smallest cigars might. The smoke time for a Robusto is normally 40 minutes to an hour. Most cigar sampler packs are packaged with Robusto cigars.

I prefer not to smoke a Robusto, and it’s primarily based on cost. When I go to local shops, most Robusto cigars are price around $7-$10, depending on the brand. And usually the next size up is only a few cents more and will provide a longer smoke time. Now on occasion I will smoke a Robusto, if it’s a blend that I have smoked and really liked. But for me, I will always maximize the cost of a cigar and get the best smoking experience. So for me, the Toro is the best selection when it comes to pricing.

TORO

The Toro can be said to probably be the most popular size cigar. Similar to the Robusto but just a little bit longer. The Toro varies in size, but generally is 6 x 52 in length and gauge. Smoke time is about an hour to 1 1/2 hours. This is a great size to enjoy while hanging out at the lounge or relaxing in the backyard. The Toro provides great flavor and the burn is very cool. When the cigar is rolled properly it will give you a great smoke output and the flavors will be enjoyable throughout the whole smoke time. And since I usually smoke 1 cigar a day, I need to get the best smoke experience for my time.

LANCERO

The Lancero, which seems to be the most elegant size of all cigar sizes, measure typically at 7 x 42. Lancero have most recently been in high demand. They provide cigar smokers with an abundance of flavor since there is very little filler, and most of the flavor comes from the wrapper. Jorge Ahued, owner of Stogies Houston, has brought a lot of attention to the Lancero. He has partnered with several big name cigar marker to create the “H-Town” series of Lancero cigars. This series of Lancero have been in high demand from not just Houston residents, but from all around the states. I have been fortunate enough to get a few of these, but have yet to smoke them. But for those that have smoked these Lancero, the reviews have all been positive.

What’s Your Choice?

Does size really matter? Well to some, it does. There will always be a debate about which size is the best. The experience you want should determine the size you select. Make your selections base on what will give you the best flavor profile based on the blend of the cigar. If you want to smoke a mild-medium cigar, maybe the Corona and Lancero will provide good flavor. And the Robusto and Toro for medium-full to enjoy the strong flavors and not overpower your palate. Whichever size you select, make sure you get the best out of it and stay smokey my friends.