La différence entre le corps et la force d’un cigare
The world of cigars has its own language. This specialized lexicon makes it possible to name the distinctive characteristics of this field with precision and to encourage exchanges among cigar lovers. The words “body” and “strength” are therefore among the terms that aficionados use frequently. However, many people use them incorrectly, assigning them the same meaning. Yet they are two distinct terms that represent two different realities.
What is a cigar's strength?
A cigar's “strength” refers to the physiological impact of the tobacco, that is, the reactions it produces in the body. It is generally influenced by the nicotine content present in a cigar, but can also result from its level of spice. Since every person is different, the reaction produced in the body by a cigar's strength can vary from one individual to another. It is therefore a relative measure.
As a general rule, a “mild to medium” cigar has little impact on the smoker. By contrast, a cigar with a high nicotine content can cause unpleasant reactions such as nausea and dizziness. That is why it is advisable never to enjoy this type of cigar on an empty stomach. Beginner smokers should also start their journey with mild to medium-strength cigars before moving on to stronger cigars.
What is a cigar's body?
A cigar's “body” refers to the depth and range of its flavors. It makes it possible to describe the characteristics of the smoke, such as its richness and texture, as well as the intensity with which it resonates on the palate. A cigar's body therefore relates to the effect that the tobacco components have on the sensory receptors of the mouth and nose.
To better understand the meaning of the term “body,” it can be helpful to compare it with the vocabulary used for wine. A wine’s “body” refers to the “impression of the wine’s weight on the palate.” It is determined by its alcohol and tannin content. A full-bodied wine will therefore be richer and deeper than a sweet wine. It is characterized by bold notes and a more substantial mouthfeel. The term “full-bodied” actually derives from the word “body,” in the sense of “the consistency a liquid takes on as it thickens.”
Why are these two terms often confused?
The “strength” and “body” of a cigar are two criteria used to analyze a cigar’s flavor profile. One reason they are so often confused is that they are generally described with the same adjectives: mild, medium, and full-bodied. In addition, tobacco leaves with the highest nicotine content are often also the ones that offer the most flavor. However, the nicotine content of a cigar does not necessarily determine its flavor strength, and vice versa. It is therefore possible to enjoy a full-bodied cigar without it necessarily being strong.
How should the terms “mild,” “medium,” and “full” be used?
A cigar with a mild “body” usually offers creamy aromas, vegetal notes, or even sweet flavors. Its smoke is light and delicate and does not overwhelm the taste buds. When used to describe strength, however, the adjective “mild” refers to your cigar’s low nicotine content. A mild cigar can therefore be enjoyed at any time of day and is particularly suitable for beginner smokers.
A cigar with a “medium” body offers a subtle balance halfway between a mild cigar and a full-bodied cigar. It can thus harmoniously combine creamy and spicy flavors. Its taste will also be more pronounced than that of a smooth cigar, but without creating any heaviness on the palate. Similarly, medium strength refers to a reasonable nicotine content that results in moderate power.
A cigar with a “full” body is a cigar that releases a dense, thick smoke. Its rich, full-bodied aromas are marked by substantial texture capable of coating the palate. Complex and intense, this type of cigar is nevertheless balanced. In terms of strength, a full-bodied cigar contains a high nicotine content. It is therefore reserved for experienced smokers and should not be enjoyed on an empty stomach.
Classification of Cuban cigars by aromatic strength
| Mild | Mild to medium | Medium | Medium to full | Full |
| Montecristo Open | H. Upmann | Cohiba Linea 1492 | Cohiba | Cohiba Behike |
| Hoyo de Monterrey | El Rey del Mundo | Romeo Y Julieta | Montecristo | Partagas |
| Fonseca | Por Larrañaga | La Gloria Cubana | Cuaba | Bolivar |
| Quai d’Orsay | San Cristobal de la Habana | Diplomaticos | José L. Piedra | Ramon Allones |
| Flor de Rafael Gonzalez | Punch | Juan Lopez | Saint Luis Rey | |
| Quintero | Robaina | |||
| Sancho Panza | Vegueros | |||
| Trinidad |
Do cigar wrappers determine their strength?
Many cigar enthusiasts believe that the color of a wrapper reflects the strength of a vitola. In reality, a cigar’s strength mainly depends on its nicotine content, and therefore on the blend of tobaccos used in its filler. The color of a wrapper, on the other hand, is determined by the origin of the tobacco used and by its degree of fermentation. Maduro wrappers do in fact undergo a longer fermentation than Colorado wrappers. This extended fermentation allows the wrapper’s flavors to develop further, but it has no impact on its strength. It is therefore entirely possible to enjoy a cigar wrapped in a Maduro wrapper that is medium in strength.
To determine a cigar’s strength, you should therefore look into the types of tobacco used to make its filler rather than relying on the color of the wrapper leaf. A strong cigar will indeed contain a larger proportion of ligero than mild cigars. Conversely, mild cigars will be made up of a small proportion of ligero and a larger amount of seco.