1. Understanding Cigar Strengths

Cigar strength refers to nicotine impact and body, not just flavor. It is usually classified into three main categories.

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1.1 Mild

• Nicotine Impact: Low

• Body: Light

• Typical Profile: Creamy, smooth, often nutty or grassy

• Best For: Beginners or early-day smokes

• Examples:

  • Macanudo Café

  • Espinosa Crema

  • Davidoff Signature Series

  • Oliva Connecticut Reserve

  • Oz. Family Cigars Firsat by Crowned Heads

1.2 Medium

• Nicotine Impact: Moderate

• Body: Balanced, richer but not overwhelming

• Typical Profile: Earth, cedar, coffee, subtle spice

• Best For: Intermediate smokers, versatile timing

• Examples:

  • Montecristo Espada

  • Crowned Heads Mil Dias

  • Espinosa Habano

  • Oliva Serie V Melanio

  • Micallef Red, Blue, Green and Purple

1.3 Full

• Nicotine Impact: High

• Body: Heavy and robust

• Typical Profile: Pepper, leather, espresso, cocoa, bold spice

• Best For: Experienced smokers, post-meal smoking

• Examples:

  • Crowned Heads Broadway

  • Liga Privada No.9 by Drew Estate

  • Murcielago by Espinosa

  • La Imperiosa by Crowned Heads

  • Micallef Black

 *Pro Tip: Full-bodied does not always mean full-strength (nicotine). A cigar can have complex flavors without being strong in nicotine.