Cigar bitolas, or sizes, vary widely, but certain sizes are notably more popular due to their balance of flavor, burn time, and convenience. Here are some of the most produced and consumed cigar bitolas:
Parejo (Straight-Sided) Sizes
Robusto
- Length: 4.5 to 5.5 inches (114.3 to 139.7mm)
- Ring Gauge: 48 to 52
- Popularity: One of the most popular sizes due to its manageable size and rich flavor. Offers a good balance between smoking time and complexity.
Corona
- Length: 5.25 to 6 inches (133.35 to 152.4)
- Ring Gauge: 42 to 44
- Popularity: A classic size, well-liked for its traditional proportions and balanced smoking experience.
Toro
- Length: 6 inches (152mm)
- Ring Gauge: 50 to 54
- Popularity: Gaining popularity, Toros offer a longer smoking time while maintaining robust flavors.
Churchill
- Length: 6.5 to 7 inches (165.1 to 177.8mm)
- Ring Gauge: 47 to 50
- Popularity: Named after Winston Churchill, this size is favored for long, leisurely smoking sessions.
Lonsdale
- Length: 6.5 inches (165mm)
- Ring Gauge: 42 to 44
- Popularity: Less common today but appreciated for its elegant shape and balanced flavors.
Figurado (Shaped) Sizes
Torpedo
- Length: Varies, typically 5.5 to 6.5 inches (139.7 to 165.1mm)
- Ring Gauge: 50 to 52
- Popularity: Known for its tapered head, which concentrates the smoke and enhances flavors.
Pyramid
- Length: Varies, typically 6 to 7 inches (152 to 178mm)
- Ring Gauge: 52 to 54
- Popularity: Similar to the Torpedo but with a broader range of sizes, offering a distinctive smoking experience.
Belicoso
- Length: 5 to 5.5 inches (127 to 140mm)
- Ring Gauge: 50 to 52
- Popularity: A smaller version of the Torpedo, providing a concentrated and flavorful smoke.
Other Popular Sizes
Petit Corona
- Length: 4.5 inches (114mm)
- Ring Gauge: 40 to 42
- Popularity: Ideal for a shorter smoke, retaining the balance of a Corona in a more compact form.
Double Corona
- Length: 7.5 to 8 inches (190.5 to 203.2mm)
- Ring Gauge: 49 to 52
- Popularity: Preferred by aficionados for its long, complex smoking experience.
Gordo
- Length: 6 inches (152mm)
- Ring Gauge: 60
- Popularity: Also known as “Gran Toro,” this size caters to those who enjoy a large ring gauge for a cooler, voluminous smoke.
Factors Influencing Popularity
- Flavor and Complexity: Sizes like Robusto and Toro are favored for their ability to deliver rich and complex flavors.
- Smoking Duration: Cigars like the Churchill and Double Corona are chosen for extended smoking sessions.
- Convenience: Smaller sizes like Petit Corona are popular for shorter, more convenient smoking experiences.
- Market Trends: Preferences can vary by region and market trends, with some sizes gaining popularity due to changing consumer preferences.
These popular cigar bitolas are widely produced and consumed due to their appealing balance of flavor, smoking duration, and overall smoking experience.
