Last updated: March 2026
Whether you just picked up your first cigar or you have been smoking for years, the cigar world is packed with specialized vocabulary. Spanish terms, tobacco science, manufacturing jargon, and lounge culture all blend together into a language of its own.
This glossary covers over 200 terms organized A to Z. Use it as a reference whenever you come across an unfamiliar word on a cigar box, in a review, or during conversation at your local lounge.
How to use this glossary: Click any letter below to jump to that section. Terms that relate to other glossary entries are cross-referenced throughout.
A | B | C | D | E | F | G | H | I | J | K | L | M | N | O | P | Q | R | S | T | U | V | W | X | Y | Z
A
Accordion Fold (Booking) A method of bunching filler tobacco where leaves are folded back and forth like an accordion. This creates consistent air channels for an even draw. Compare with Entubado.
Aging The process of storing finished cigars over months or years to allow flavors to marry, mellow, and develop complexity. Proper cigar storage at 65-70% humidity and 65-70 degrees Fahrenheit is essential. Also see Fermenting.
Amatista A sealed glass jar used for packaging cigars, most commonly associated with Cuban brands. The airtight seal preserves freshness during shipping and display. Typically holds 25 or 50 cigars.
Ammonia A natural byproduct of tobacco fermentation. Freshly rolled cigars often carry residual ammonia that needs time to dissipate. This is one reason newly released cigars benefit from additional aging before smoking. A harsh, chemical taste usually means the cigar needs more rest.
Anejado
Spanish for aged.
Used on cigar labels to indicate the tobacco or finished cigars have been aged for an extended period before release. Padron and Arturo Fuente are known for extensive aging programs.
Anilla The Spanish word for a cigar band. The decorative ring of paper wrapped around the cigar, typically near the head, that displays the brand name and logo. Some smokers remove it before lighting, others leave it on. Removing it too early can tear the wrapper if the glue has bonded to the leaf.
Apagado
Spanish for extinguished.
Refers to a cigar that has gone out and needs relighting. Unlike cigarettes, cigars go out naturally if not puffed regularly. A cigar can be relit within about 30-60 minutes without too much flavor degradation.
Arapiraca A type of wrapper tobacco grown in the Arapiraca region of Brazil. Known for producing dark, oily wrappers with a sweet, earthy flavor profile. Used by several boutique brands.
AVO A premium cigar brand founded by jazz musician Avo Uvezian, now produced by Davidoff. Known for elegant, refined blends. Browse AVO cigars on CigarFinder.
B
Bale A large bundle of tobacco leaves bound together for fermenting or shipping. Bales can weigh anywhere from 80 to 200 pounds depending on the origin country and leaf type. Also called a Tercio when wrapped in palm bark (royal palm) for Cuban tobacco.
Band See Anilla. The paper ring around a cigar displaying the brand name and sometimes the blend or vitola name.
Barber Pole A cigar wrapped with two different colored wrapper leaves spiraling around the body, creating a visual pattern resembling a barber pole. This is a difficult technique that requires precision rolling. Examples include the CAO Flathead Sparkplug and Tatuaje Tattoo Needles.
Barrel The main body of the cigar between the head (where you draw) and the foot (where you light). Also called the Cannon.
Belicoso A cigar shape with a short, tapered head that comes to a soft point. Typically 5 to 5.5 inches long with a 50-52 ring gauge. The tapered head concentrates smoke for an intense flavor delivery. Not to be confused with a Torpedo, which has a longer, sharper taper.
Binder The tobacco leaf wrapped around the filler bunch, sitting between the filler and the outer wrapper. The binder holds the filler together and contributes to burn quality and flavor. Often made from thicker, less visually perfect leaves since they are hidden under the wrapper. Some blenders use the binder as a key flavor component.
Blend The specific combination of filler, binder, and wrapper tobaccos that make up a cigar. A blend defines a cigar's flavor profile, strength, and character. Master blenders may test hundreds of combinations before finalizing a blend. See also Liga.
Bloom See Plume.
Blue Mold A destructive fungus (Peronospora tabacina) that attacks tobacco plants in the field. Blue mold can devastate entire crops and has historically caused major supply disruptions in Cuba and Central America. Not to be confused with Plume or storage mold on finished cigars.
Boite Nature
A style of cigar box with an unfinished, natural wood exterior. The classic utilitarian packaging, also called a slide lid
or cabinet selection
box. These boxes often use Spanish cedar and do not have paper lining or elaborate decoration.
Booking See Accordion Fold. A filler bunching technique where leaves are folded and layered flat.
Bouquet The overall aroma of a cigar, both before lighting (cold draw aroma) and the scent of the smoke in the air. Experienced smokers evaluate bouquet as part of the cigar tasting experience.
Box Cigars are packaged in boxes of various formats: Dress Box (fully decorated), Boite Nature (plain wood), Cabinet Selection (unfinished with ribbon-tied cigars), Bundle (cellophane-wrapped without a box). Standard box counts include 10, 20, 25, and 50.
Box-Pressed A cigar shape where the cigars are pressed into a square or rectangular cross-section rather than remaining round. This happens when cigars are tightly packed in molds or boxes during manufacturing. Box-pressed cigars often have a slightly different burn character and can be easier to set down without rolling. Padron and Drew Estate both produce popular box-pressed lines.
Broadleaf A type of tobacco grown primarily in the Connecticut River Valley. Connecticut Broadleaf produces thick, dark, oily maduro wrappers with a naturally sweet flavor. It is one of the most popular wrapper tobaccos for full-bodied cigars. Used by brands like Drew Estate Liga Privada.
Bull's Eye Piercing A cigar cutter that creates a small hole in the cap rather than removing it entirely. Also called a Punch Cut. Good for thick ring gauge cigars.
Bunch The combination of filler leaves rolled together inside the binder. A cigar's construction quality largely depends on how well the bunch is assembled. An uneven bunch causes draw problems and uneven burning.
Bundle A packaging format where cigars are wrapped in cellophane without an elaborate box. Bundle cigars are typically more affordable because you are not paying for fancy packaging. Many excellent everyday smokes come in bundles. Browse budget-friendly cigars on CigarFinder.
Burley An air-cured tobacco variety mostly used in pipe tobacco and cigarettes, but occasionally found in some machine-made or flavored cigars. Not commonly used in premium handmade cigars.
C
Cabinet Selection A packaging style where cigars are placed in an unfinished cedar box without individual slots or fixed rows. Cigars are typically tied with a ribbon. This allows slightly more airflow for aging.
Cameroon A wrapper type grown in the West African country of Cameroon (or from Cameroon seed). Produces a thin, toothy wrapper with a unique sweet, spicy, slightly acidic flavor. Arturo Fuente is famous for using Cameroon wrappers.
Candela
A bright green wrapper achieved by rapidly drying the leaf using heat to lock in chlorophyll. Also called Double Claro
or AMS (American Market Selection). Was extremely popular in the United States through the 1960s and 1970s. Now considered a novelty. Flavor is light, grassy, and slightly sweet.
Canoeing An uneven burn where one side of the cigar burns faster than the other, creating a canoe-shaped ash. Common causes include uneven lighting, wind, or poor construction. Can often be corrected by touching up the slow side with your lighter. See our cigar smoking guide for troubleshooting tips.
Cap The small piece (or pieces) of tobacco applied to the head of a cigar to seal the wrapper and keep it from unraveling. Cuban and most handmade cigars use a Triple Cap (three layers). The cap is what you cut before smoking. See also cigar cap cutting styles.
Capa
Spanish for wrapper.
The outermost leaf of a cigar. See Wrapper.
Caribbean Refers to tobaccos grown on Caribbean islands including Cuba, the Dominican Republic, Puerto Rico, and Jamaica. Caribbean growing regions produce some of the most prized cigar tobaccos in the world.
Cedar Spanish cedar (Cedrela odorata) is the wood used for cigar boxes and humidor interiors. Despite the name, it is actually a member of the mahogany family, not a true cedar. It naturally repels tobacco beetles, absorbs moisture evenly, and complements cigar flavors. Cedar spills (thin strips) are traditionally used to light cigars. Also see Humidor.
Cellophane The clear, semi-permeable wrapping around individual cigars. Cellophane allows slow air exchange while protecting the wrapper from damage and oil transfer. Debate exists about whether to remove cellophane for aging and storage. Most smokers leave it on in the humidor for protection.
Chaveta The flat, crescent-shaped blade used by cigar rollers (torcedores) to trim and cut tobacco leaves during the rolling process. An essential tool in any cigar factory. Each roller typically has their own personal chaveta.
Cheroot A thin, rough, open-ended cigar with no taper at either end. Both ends are cut flat. Traditional cheroots have no finished cap and are associated with Southeast Asian and Indian cigar traditions. Clint Eastwood's character in spaghetti westerns famously smoked cheroots.
Churchill A large cigar size typically measuring 7 inches by 47-50 ring gauge. Named after Sir Winston Churchill, who was famous for his love of large Cuban cigars. A classic vitola for long smoking sessions of 60-90 minutes.
Claro A light tan to golden brown wrapper shade, indicating the leaf received less sun exposure or was harvested early. Claro wrappers are generally milder and smoother. See Wrapper Color Spectrum.
Cold Draw The act of drawing air through an unlit cigar to evaluate the pre-light flavor and check the draw resistance. A good cold draw should offer some resistance (like sipping a thick milkshake through a straw) and may give hints of sweetness, leather, cedar, or other flavors.
Colorado A reddish-brown wrapper shade, darker than Claro but lighter than Maduro. Colorado wrappers often deliver a balance of sweetness and spice. Also see wrapper types explained.
Colorado Claro
A medium-brown wrapper shade, sometimes called Natural
or EMS (English Market Selection). Falls between Claro and Colorado on the color spectrum. One of the most common wrapper shades.
Colorado Maduro A dark reddish-brown wrapper, sitting between Colorado and Maduro on the color spectrum. Rich flavor without the full intensity of a true Maduro.
Combustion The burning process of a lit cigar. Unlike cigarettes, cigars are not designed to burn continuously on their own. Premium cigars require regular puffing (about once every 30-60 seconds) to maintain combustion. If left alone, a good cigar will naturally go out.
Connecticut Refers to tobacco grown in the Connecticut River Valley (spanning Connecticut and Massachusetts). Connecticut Shade produces silky, golden wrappers under shade tents. Connecticut Broadleaf produces thick, dark maduro wrappers. Both are among the most important wrapper tobaccos in the industry.
Corojo A Cuban-seed tobacco variety originally grown for wrapper production. Named after the Corojo farm in Cuba's Vuelta Abajo region. After the Cuban embargo, Corojo seed was brought to Honduras, Nicaragua, and Ecuador. Corojo wrappers are known for spicy, peppery flavor with a reddish hue. Camacho cigars heavily feature Corojo tobacco.
Corona
A classic cigar size, traditionally 5.5 inches by 42 ring gauge. The Corona is often considered the reference standard
for cigar sizing. Variations include Petit Corona (smaller), Corona Extra (slightly larger), and Corona Gorda (thicker).
Cream A flavor descriptor commonly used in cigar reviews. Indicates a smooth, rich mouthfeel and mellow sweetness. Often associated with Connecticut Shade wrappers and Dominican fillers.
Criollo
A tobacco variety native to Cuba, the word means native seed
in Spanish. Cuban Criollo was the original tobacco of the island. Today, Criollo seed has been adapted to growing regions across Nicaragua, Honduras, the Dominican Republic, and Ecuador. Produces versatile leaves used as filler, binder, and occasionally wrapper.
Cuban Seed
Tobacco grown from seeds originally sourced from Cuba but cultivated in other countries (Nicaragua, Honduras, Ecuador, Dominican Republic). After the U.S. embargo, many Cuban tobacco families brought their seeds to new regions. Cuban seed
on a label indicates genetic heritage, not growing location.
Culebra Three thin cigars braided together. Originally created as a quality control measure in Cuban factories so that workers could only take their allotted cigars (the braided shape made them identifiable). Now a novelty item. You unwind the three cigars and smoke them individually.
Curing The process of drying harvested tobacco leaves to remove moisture and begin chemical changes. Methods include air curing (hanging leaves in barns for weeks), fire curing, and sun curing. Most premium cigar tobacco is air cured. This is the first step after harvesting, before Fermenting.
Cut The method of opening the cap of a cigar before smoking. The three main cut types are straight cut (guillotine), V-cut (wedge), and punch cut. Each produces a different draw experience. See our guide to cutting and lighting cigars and best cigar cutters under $50.
D
Diadema A large, elaborate cigar shape that is tapered and closed at both ends. One of the most difficult vitolas to roll. Typically 8 inches or longer. Also called a Perfecto Grande in some factories. A showpiece vitola.
Double Claro See Candela. A green-hued wrapper.
Double Corona A large cigar format, typically 7.5 to 8 inches by 49-52 ring gauge. A step up from the Churchill in size. Popular for extended smoking sessions.
Double Maduro A cigar that uses Maduro wrapper on both the exterior and as the binder leaf. Produces an intensely rich, sweet, and full-flavored experience.
Draw
The amount of air that flows through a cigar when you puff on it. A good draw offers mild resistance. A tight draw
means too little airflow (cigar is plugged or overfilled). A loose draw
means too much airflow (underfilled). Draw is one of the most important construction quality indicators.
Draw Test Checking the draw of a cigar before lighting by pulling air through the cold, unlit cigar. See Cold Draw.
Dress Box A fully decorated, paper-lined cigar box with ornate artwork and branding. The traditional presentation box for premium cigars.
Dry Boxing The practice of leaving cigars outside the humidor (in their box or on a tray) for a few hours to several days before smoking to slightly reduce moisture content. Some smokers find this improves the burn and concentrates flavor. Recommended when cigars feel too spongy or have been stored at higher humidity levels.
E
EMS (English Market Selection)
A wrapper color classification indicating a medium brown, natural
shade. Historically, this was the color preferred by British cigar smokers, as opposed to the lighter shades favored by the American market (AMS). See Colorado Claro.
Entubado A filler bunching technique where each individual filler leaf is rolled into a small tube or scroll before being combined into the bunch. This creates individual air channels for a superior draw. More labor-intensive than the Accordion Fold method. Common in Cuban and many high-end Nicaraguan cigars from brands like Padron and My Father.
Escaparate
The aging room in a cigar factory where finished cigars rest in their cedar boxes before being shipped. Temperature and humidity are carefully controlled. Also called a walk-in humidor
in some factories. Aging times vary from weeks to years depending on the brand.
Estelí A major tobacco-growing city and region in northern Nicaragua. Estelí has become one of the most important cigar production centers in the world, home to factories for My Father, Drew Estate, Oliva, AJ Fernandez, and dozens of other brands. The volcanic soil and climate produce bold, complex tobaccos.
Excise Tax A government tax applied to tobacco products, including cigars. Tax rates vary significantly by state and country. Some states tax by price (percentage), others by weight. This directly impacts retail pricing. Check cigar deals and coupons to offset these costs.
F
Factory Second A cigar that did not pass quality control inspection, usually for cosmetic reasons (wrapper blemishes, uneven color, slight shape irregularities) rather than smoking quality issues. Factory seconds are often sold at steep discounts without bands. They can be excellent values since the tobacco and construction are identical to first-quality cigars.
Fermentation The controlled decomposition process where tobacco leaves are stacked in large piles (pilones) and naturally generate heat through microbial activity. Fermentation breaks down harsh chemicals (ammonia, nicotine), develops flavor complexity, and changes the leaf color. Wrapper leaves may go through multiple fermentation cycles over several months. This is one of the most critical steps in creating premium tobacco.
Figurado Any cigar shape that is not a straight-sided cylinder (Parejo). Figurados include Torpedoes, Belicosos, Pyramids, Perfectos, Diademas, and other tapered or irregular shapes. Figurados are more difficult to roll and often command higher prices. See our cigar sizes guide.
Filler The tobacco leaves that make up the core of a cigar, inside the binder. Filler is typically a blend of different leaf types (Ligero, Seco, Viso/Volado) from different primings and regions to achieve the desired flavor and strength. Long filler uses whole leaves running the length of the cigar. Short filler uses chopped tobacco pieces. Mixed filler combines both. See handmade vs machine-made cigars.
Flag Leaf A small piece of wrapper leaf used to finish the cap on a handmade cigar. The flag is twisted and applied to the head during the final step of rolling. A well-applied flag leaf indicates skilled construction.
Flat Head A cigar cut perfectly flat at the head (cap end). Standard for Parejo shapes. Also the name of a popular CAO cigar line.
Flavor Profile The overall taste characteristics of a cigar, including primary flavors (earth, pepper, cedar, leather, coffee, chocolate, cream, nuts) and secondary notes that emerge throughout the smoke. Flavor evolves in three stages called Thirds. Learn more about developing your palate.
Foot The open end of a cigar that you light. On a Parejo, the foot is pre-cut flat. On a Perfecto, the foot is tapered and closed (requiring you to cut or toast it open). A Shaggy Foot has filler leaves intentionally left extending past the wrapper for a flavor-forward first light.
Frontmark
The name given to a specific size and shape within a brand's product line. For example, Robusto
or Toro
is the frontmark. Different brands may use proprietary frontmark names for standard sizes (e.g., Padron calls their Robusto 1964 Exclusivo
).
Full-Bodied A cigar with intense, robust flavor and typically higher nicotine strength. Common descriptors include rich earth, dark chocolate, espresso, black pepper, and leather. Padron 1926, Liga Privada by Drew Estate, and My Father Le Bijou are classic full-bodied smokes. See our guide on cigar strength levels.
G
Gauge See Ring Gauge.
Glass Top A cigar box with a clear glass or crystal lid, designed for display. These boxes are sealed less tightly than wooden boxes and may not maintain humidity as well for long-term storage.
Gorda
Spanish for fat.
Used in vitola names to indicate a thicker ring gauge version of a classic shape. Corona Gorda (5.5-6 inches by 46), Robusto Gordo (5-5.5 inches by 54+).
Gran Corona See Double Corona.
Green (Cigar) Refers to a cigar that has not been aged sufficiently after rolling. Green cigars often taste harsh, bitter, or carry ammonia notes. Most manufacturers age cigars for a minimum period before release, but some budget brands ship too quickly.
Guillotine A straight-cut cigar cutter that slices the cap cleanly. Available in single-blade and double-blade versions. The double-blade guillotine provides a cleaner cut because it applies pressure from both sides. The most common cutter type. See best cigar cutters under $50.
H
Habano
A wrapper type and tobacco variety. As a wrapper, Habano refers to Cuban-seed tobacco (often grown in Nicaragua, Ecuador, or Honduras) known for its rich, spicy, full-flavored character and reddish-brown color. Many top-rated cigars use Habano wrappers. Also spelled Havana
in English contexts.
Habanos S.A. The Cuban government entity that controls the production, marketing, and distribution of all Cuban cigars worldwide. All legitimate Cuban cigars carry a Habanos seal.
Hand-Rolled A cigar made entirely by hand, from bunching the filler to applying the wrapper and cap. A skilled torcedor can roll 100-300 cigars per day depending on the vitola. Hand-rolled cigars use long filler tobacco and are considered premium products.
Head The closed end of a cigar, covered by the cap, that goes in your mouth. This is the end you cut before smoking. The opposite end is the Foot.
Heater
Slang for a very strong, full-bodied cigar that delivers a powerful nicotine hit. Also called a bomb.
Best avoided by beginners.
Honduran
Tobacco grown in Honduras, one of the big four
cigar tobacco countries. The Jamastran and Copan valleys produce excellent filler and binder tobaccos. Honduras is home to factories for Rocky Patel, Camacho, Alec Bradley, and many others.
HTL (Homogenized Tobacco Leaf) A manufactured sheet of tobacco made from ground tobacco pulp and other materials, similar to the process of making paper. Used as binders (and sometimes wrappers) in machine-made cigars. Not used in premium handmade cigars.
Humidification The process of maintaining proper moisture levels inside a humidor. Methods include passive (Boveda packs, humidity beads, crystal gel) and active (electronic humidifiers). Target range is 62-72% relative humidity for most cigars. See cigar storage guide.
Humidor A storage container designed to maintain consistent temperature and humidity for cigar preservation. Interior is typically lined with Spanish cedar. Ranges from small travel cases holding 5-10 cigars to massive walk-in rooms holding thousands. Proper humidor maintenance is essential. See our guides to humidors under $100 and best humidors for every budget.
Hygrometer An instrument that measures relative humidity inside a humidor. Digital hygrometers are more accurate than analog models. Should be calibrated regularly using the salt test or a Boveda calibration kit. An essential tool for proper cigar storage.
I
Infusion The process of adding external flavors or aromas to a cigar. ACID cigars by Drew Estate are the most famous example, using a proprietary botanical infusion process. Infused cigars should be stored separately from non-infused cigars because the aromatic oils will transfer to nearby sticks.
J
Jalapa A tobacco-growing valley in northern Nicaragua. Jalapa tobacco is known for its smoother, sweeter character compared to the bolder Estelí-grown leaves. Many blenders use Jalapa tobacco for their more refined, nuanced blends. Oliva sources heavily from Jalapa.
K
Kick
Informal term for the nicotine strength or buzz
of a cigar. A cigar with a lot of kick is high in nicotine. Learn about why some cigars give you a buzz and how to manage it.
L
Laguito Refers to El Laguito, the famous Cohiba factory in Havana, Cuba. Also used to describe the elegant slim cigar shapes originated there, particularly the Laguito No. 1 (Lancero).
Lancero An elegant, thin cigar shape, typically 7-7.5 inches by 38 ring gauge. The thin format allows the wrapper to dominate the flavor profile since it represents a higher percentage of the tobacco compared to thicker gauges. A favorite vitola among experienced enthusiasts.
Ligero The top leaves from a tobacco plant, receiving the most sunlight. Ligero leaves are thick, oily, dark, and produce the most intense flavor and highest nicotine content. They burn slowly and are used sparingly in blends to add strength and richness. Ligero requires the longest fermentation period due to its density.
Liga
Spanish for blend.
Refers to the specific recipe of tobaccos used in a cigar. Drew Estate famously uses this term in their Liga Privada (Private Blend
) line.
Long Filler Whole tobacco leaves that run the entire length of the cigar from head to foot. Long filler is the hallmark of premium handmade cigars and produces a more complex, even-burning smoke compared to short filler. See handmade vs machine-made.
Lonsdale A cigar size named after Lord Lonsdale of England, typically 6.5 inches by 42-44 ring gauge. A classic vitola that provides a long, flavorful smoke with a moderate ring gauge.
M
Machine-Made Cigars produced using automated machinery rather than hand-rolling. Machine-made cigars typically use short filler and homogenized tobacco leaf (HTL) binders. They are less expensive and more consistent but generally considered less complex than handmade cigars. See our complete guide to machine-made cigars and browse machine-made options.
Maduro
A dark wrapper shade achieved through extended fermentation and/or using top primings that receive more sunlight. Spanish for mature
or ripe.
Maduro wrappers range from deep brown to nearly black and are known for rich, sweet flavors with notes of chocolate, coffee, dried fruit, and earth. See top maduro cigars to try.
Marrying
The process by which different tobaccos in a cigar blend harmonize and develop unified flavor over time during aging. When filler, binder, and wrapper tobaccos marry,
the individual flavors merge into a cohesive, smoother experience.
Medio Tiempo The rare, tiny leaves that grow at the very top of certain tobacco plants, above the Ligero primings. Not all plants produce them. Medio Tiempo leaves are the strongest, most flavorful tobacco available. Used in ultra-premium blends like the Cohiba Behike.
Mold Unwanted fungal growth on cigars, usually caused by excessive humidity (above 75%) or contamination. Appears as fuzzy, blue-green or white spots. Unlike plume, mold has a musty smell and penetrates the wrapper. Moldy cigars should be isolated immediately. Prevention requires proper humidor management. Not to be confused with Plume.
Mold (Manufacturing) A wooden or plastic form used to press cigar bunches into shape before the wrapper is applied. Different molds produce different cigar shapes. Box-pressed cigars get their square shape from rectangular molds or from being tightly packed during the pressing stage.
Mouth Feel See Body. The weight and texture of smoke in your mouth. Described as light, medium, or full-bodied. A heavy, coating mouthfeel indicates full body, while airy, lighter smoke indicates light body.
N
Nub
When a cigar is smoked down to a very short length, the remaining piece is called the nub. Also the name of a popular cigar brand by Oliva known for its short, thick format designed to deliver the sweet spot
flavor from the first puff.
Natural
A wrapper color classification referring to a light to medium brown shade. Also called Colorado Claro
or EMS. Natural
can also refer to unflavored cigars (as opposed to infused/flavored cigars).
Nicaraguan Tobacco grown in Nicaragua, which has become the dominant cigar tobacco country in the 21st century. Major growing regions include Estelí, Jalapa, Condega, and Ometepe. Nicaragua produces tobacco for filler, binder, and wrapper in all strength levels. See top Nicaraguan cigars and Nicaraguan brands like Padron, My Father, Oliva, and Plasencia.
O
Oil The natural oils present on a cigar's wrapper leaf. An oily sheen on the wrapper is a sign of quality tobacco that has been well-fermented and properly humidified. These oils contribute to flavor and aroma. Oily wrappers are especially prized on Maduro and Habano cigars.
Olor
A Dominican tobacco variety known for its mild, smooth character. Commonly used as a filler component in Dominican-blend cigars. The name means aroma
in Spanish.
Ometepe A volcanic island in Lake Nicaragua that has emerged as an important tobacco-growing region. The volcanic soil produces unique, mineral-rich tobaccos. Perdomo and other brands source from Ometepe.
Oscuro The darkest wrapper shade, almost black. Achieved through the longest fermentation process or by using the highest priming leaves. Oscuro wrappers deliver intense, bold flavors with pronounced sweetness and very low bitterness when properly fermented. Darker than Maduro on the color spectrum.
P
Panetela A long, thin cigar shape, typically 5-7.5 inches by 34-38 ring gauge. Thinner than a Lancero. The slim format produces a wrapper-forward flavor experience.
Parejo Any cigar with straight, parallel sides and a rounded head. The standard cigar shape. Most cigars you encounter are Parejos. The opposite category is Figurado (tapered or irregular shapes).
Peel When the wrapper leaf starts to lift or unravel from the cigar body, usually caused by damage, overly dry conditions, or poor construction.
Perfecto A cigar shape that is closed at both ends and bulges in the middle. One of the most difficult shapes to roll. The tapered foot requires careful lighting and produces an evolving flavor as the ring gauge changes throughout the smoke. The Arturo Fuente Hemingway series features classic Perfectos.
Petal Cap A cap made from a rosette of small tobacco leaf petals pressed into the head of the cigar. Provides a decorative and functional closure. Common on some Cuban and boutique brands.
Petit
French for small.
Used in vitola names to indicate a smaller version of a standard shape: Petit Corona, Petit Robusto, Petit Lancero.
Pigtail A cap style where a small twisted tail of wrapper leaf extends from the head. Common on some Cuban cigars (particularly Montecristo and Cuaba brands). Can be bitten or twisted off instead of using a cutter.
Pilón The large stack of tobacco leaves (typically 3,500 to 5,000 pounds) assembled for fermentation. Workers monitor the internal temperature of the pilón with long thermometer swords. When temperatures get too high, the pilón is broken apart and restacked (turned) to prevent overheating. This process may be repeated many times over several months.
Plume (Bloom) A fine white crystalline powder that can appear on well-aged cigars. Plume is crystallized oils that have migrated to the wrapper's surface. It wipes off easily and is considered a sign of proper aging. Plume is harmless and some consider it desirable. Distinguishing plume from mold: plume is uniform, powdery, and wipes clean. Mold is fuzzy, spotty, and smells musty.
Plug
A cigar with an overly tight draw caused by a knot or blockage in the filler. A plugged cigar is difficult or impossible to smoke. Sometimes massaging
or gently rolling the cigar between your fingers can loosen a plug. A draw poker tool (a thin spike you push through the cigar) can also help.
Premium Cigar A handmade cigar constructed with 100% natural long-filler tobacco, a natural binder leaf, and a natural wrapper leaf. Premium cigars contain no paper, no homogenized tobacco leaf, and no artificial fillers. They are also distinguished by their higher quality tobacco and more skilled construction. See our full guide: What is considered a premium cigar?
Priming The position of a tobacco leaf on the plant stalk. Lower leaves (Volado) are mildest. Middle leaves (Seco) are medium. Upper leaves (Viso) are stronger. The highest leaves (Ligero and Medio Tiempo) are the strongest and most flavorful. Blenders combine different primings to achieve their desired flavor and strength profile.
Puff Count The approximate number of puffs you can get from a cigar. Varies based on size, shape, and how frequently you puff. A Robusto typically yields 80-120 puffs. A Churchill may yield 120-160+. Not an exact science, but useful for estimating smoke time.
Punch (Cut) A cutter that uses a circular blade to remove a small plug from the cigar cap. Creates a concentrated, more restricted draw compared to a straight cut. Works best on larger ring gauge cigars (50+) and should not be used on Torpedos or Figurados. See cutting and lighting guide.
Puro A cigar where the filler, binder, and wrapper all come from the same country. Example: a Nicaraguan puro uses Nicaraguan tobacco for every component. Many consider puros to be more harmonious in flavor because all the tobaccos share the same terroir. Padron and Oliva produce several popular puros.
Pyramid A cigar shape with a wide foot that tapers gradually to a pointed head. Similar to a Torpedo but with a wider base. Typically 6-7 inches with a 52-56 ring gauge at the foot tapering to about 40 at the head.
Q
Quai d'Orsay A lesser-known Cuban cigar brand in the Habanos S.A. portfolio. Originally created for the French market. Named after the famous Parisian boulevard. Known for lighter, more refined Cuban blends.
R
Resting Allowing a cigar to sit in your humidor for days, weeks, or months after purchase before smoking. This lets the cigar recover from shipping stress (temperature and humidity changes during transit) and allows flavors to stabilize. Most experienced smokers recommend at least 2-4 weeks of rest, and many brands improve significantly with months of rest.
Retrohale The technique of pushing cigar smoke back through your nasal passages (out through the nose) rather than exhaling through your mouth. Retrohaling unlocks a wider range of flavors because the olfactory receptors in the nasal passage detect aromas that the tongue cannot. An essential technique for experienced smokers. Start by retrohaling small amounts on the second third of your cigar. See our guide to the art of smoking cigars.
Ring Gauge The diameter of a cigar measured in 64ths of an inch. A cigar with a 50 ring gauge is 50/64 of an inch in diameter (about 0.78 inches). Common ring gauges range from 34 (thin Lanceros) to 60+ (modern thick formats). Larger ring gauges generally produce a cooler, slower burn with more filler influence. Smaller ring gauges produce a warmer smoke with more wrapper influence. See our cigar sizes guide.
Robusto The most popular cigar size in the modern market, typically 5 inches by 50 ring gauge. A Robusto provides a balanced smoking experience in about 45-60 minutes. Its manageable size and consistent flavor delivery make it the go-to vitola for many smokers.
Rosado
A pinkish or reddish wrapper shade, slightly lighter than Colorado. Rosado
means rosy
in Spanish. Achieved through specific fermentation and processing techniques. Produces a distinctive sweet, slightly tangy flavor.
Rotation A smoker's personal collection of regularly smoked cigars across different brands, strengths, and sizes. Building a rotation means keeping a variety of cigars on hand for different moods, times of day, and occasions. A well-rounded rotation might include a mild morning smoke, a medium afternoon cigar, and a full-bodied evening selection.
S
Salomón A large Figurado cigar, often 7+ inches, with a pointed head and a bulging body that tapers at both ends. Named after King Solomon. One of the most visually dramatic and difficult-to-roll vitola shapes.
Sandwich Filler A construction method where long-filler leaves are combined with short-filler trimmings. Also called Mixed Filler. Produces a cigar that is more affordable than pure long filler but better burning than pure short filler.
Seco
The middle leaves of a tobacco plant. Seco receives moderate sunlight and produces leaves with balanced flavor and good combustion. Seco is the backbone
of most cigar blends, providing the bulk of the flavor without the intensity of Ligero or the mildness of Volado.
Shade Grown Tobacco grown under large cheesecloth or muslin tents (tapados) that filter sunlight. Shade growing produces thinner, silkier, more elastic leaves ideal for wrappers. Connecticut Shade is the most famous example. The reduced sunlight creates milder flavor and a smoother texture. Compare with Sun Grown.
Shaggy Foot A foot where the filler and sometimes binder leaves extend past the wrapper, creating a rough, unfinished look. The exposed filler provides an immediate burst of filler flavor when you toast the foot. An intentional stylistic choice, not a defect.
Short Filler
Chopped or shredded tobacco pieces (sometimes called scraps
or trimmings
) used to fill machine-made cigars and some lower-priced handmade cigars. Short filler burns faster, can burn hotter, and produces a less complex flavor than long filler.
Single Buying cigars individually rather than in boxes. Most cigar retailers sell singles, making it easy to sample new blends before committing to a box. Use CigarFinder to compare single cigar prices across retailers.
Smoking Time The approximate duration a cigar will last when smoked at a normal pace. Varies by size: Petit Corona (20-30 min), Robusto (45-60 min), Toro (60-75 min), Churchill (75-90 min), Double Corona (90-120 min). Factors include ring gauge, filler density, and individual puffing frequency.
Soft Box See Bundle. A less rigid packaging format using cardboard or thin wood rather than a heavy cedar box.
Spanish Cedar See Cedar. The traditional wood for cigar boxes and humidor interiors.
Spill A thin strip of Spanish cedar used to light a cigar. Cedar spills are considered the purest method of lighting because they do not impart chemical flavors (unlike lighter fluid). Light the spill with a match, then use the burning cedar to toast and light the cigar.
Stick
Informal slang for a cigar. That's a great stick
means that's a great cigar.
Stogie Slang for cigar, originally referring to cheap, rough cigars made in Conestoga, Pennsylvania (named after the Conestoga wagons). Now used loosely to mean any cigar.
Strength The nicotine intensity of a cigar, ranging from mild to medium to full. Not the same as Body or flavor intensity, although they often correlate. A cigar can be full-flavored (lots of taste) but mild in strength (low nicotine). Strength is primarily determined by the tobacco primings used (more Ligero = more strength) and the wrapper type. See our guide on how to choose a cigar by strength.
Sun Grown Tobacco grown in direct sunlight without shade tents. The increased UV exposure produces thicker, rougher, more flavorful and oily leaves compared to shade-grown tobacco. Sun-grown wrappers tend to be darker, spicier, and more complex. Habano, Corojo, and many Nicaraguan wrappers are sun grown.
Sumatra A wrapper type originally grown on the island of Sumatra, Indonesia. Now also grown from Sumatran seed in Ecuador (Ecuadorian Sumatra). Produces a thin, smooth, brown wrapper with a slightly spicy sweetness. Used by many Dominican-blend brands.
T
Tapado The shade tent or cheesecloth canopy used in shade-grown tobacco cultivation. See Shade Grown.
Tercio A bale of tobacco wrapped in palm bark from the royal palm tree (Yagua). Traditional packing method for Cuban tobacco during aging and transport. The palm bark is breathable and helps regulate moisture.
Thirds The three stages of smoking a cigar from head to foot. The First Third (initial 30%) is often milder as the cigar warms up. The Second Third (middle 30-40%) is typically considered the sweet spot where flavors are most balanced and complex. The Final Third (last 30%) often intensifies in strength and flavor as smoke passes through more tobacco and oil accumulates. Understanding thirds helps you evaluate and enjoy cigars more fully.
Tobacco Beetle (Lasioderma serricorne) A tiny beetle that can infest and destroy cigar collections. Beetles lay eggs in tobacco. If storage temperatures rise above 72-74 degrees Fahrenheit, the eggs can hatch, and the larvae bore tiny pinholes through cigars. Prevention involves maintaining proper temperature and humidity. See our guide on how to stop cigar beetles.
Tooth The visible small bumps or texture on a cigar's wrapper leaf. Toothy wrappers indicate the leaf has more oil glands and often produce a more flavorful smoke. Cameroon wrappers are particularly known for their tooth.
Torcedor
Spanish for a skilled cigar roller. In Cuba, torcedores work in factories called fabricas
and are organized by skill level. The best torcedores are assigned to roll the most prestigious brands and the most difficult Figurado shapes. A master torcedor may have decades of experience and roll hundreds of cigars per day.
Torpedo A cigar shape with straight sides and a pointed, tapered head. Typically 6-6.5 inches by 52 ring gauge. The tapered head concentrates smoke and can be cut at different points to adjust the draw opening. Not to be confused with a Belicoso (shorter, softer taper) or a Pyramid (taper starts from the foot).
Toro A popular cigar size, typically 6 inches by 50-52 ring gauge. Slightly larger than a Robusto, the Toro provides 60-75 minutes of smoking time. One of the most common vitolas in modern production.
Touch-Up
Using a lighter to correct an uneven burn. Hold the flame to the area that is burning too slowly to even out the burn line. Also called making a correction.
Triple Cap A cap construction method using three layers of wrapper leaf to seal the head of a cigar. The triple cap is the standard for Cuban cigars and most premium handmade cigars. Provides a clean, even surface for cutting and prevents the wrapper from unraveling during smoking.
Tunneling A burn defect where the filler burns faster than the wrapper and binder, creating a tunnel or cavity inside the cigar while the outer layers remain intact. Caused by over-humidification, poor construction, or improper lighting. The opposite of Canoeing. Can sometimes be fixed by purging (gently blowing through the cigar) and relighting.
Tubo A protective tube (usually aluminum, glass, or cedar) used to package and transport individual cigars. Tubos protect cigars from physical damage during travel. Also see cigar shipping guide.
U
Underfilled A cigar with too little filler tobacco, resulting in a very loose, easy draw. Underfilled cigars burn hot and fast, producing a less enjoyable smoking experience with muted flavors. A construction defect.
V
V-Cut
A cutter that carves a V-shaped wedge into the cap of a cigar. Also called a cat's eye
or wedge cut.
Provides a deeper cut than a punch while maintaining wrapper integrity. Works well on both Parejos and Torpedos. See cigar cap cutting styles.
Vein The structural veins running through a tobacco leaf. Smaller, less prominent veins indicate a higher quality wrapper leaf. Thick, raised veins on a wrapper are considered cosmetically undesirable and can cause uneven burning, though they do not necessarily affect flavor.
Vintage
When used on cigar labels, indicates the tobacco in the blend has been aged significantly (often 5+ years) before rolling. Vintage
does not have a regulated definition in the cigar industry, so its meaning varies by brand. Some brands use it as a marketing term rather than a strict aging designation.
Viso (Vizo)
Tobacco leaves from the upper-middle section of the plant, between Seco and Ligero. Viso receives good sunlight and produces flavorful, medium-strength leaves that contribute body and aroma to a blend. Not all tobacco classification systems use Viso
as a category, with some grouping these leaves under Ligero or Seco.
Vista The decorative artwork and lithographic labels on a cigar box. Historically, cigar box art was an important marketing tool and a respected art form. Vintage cigar box vistas are now collectible.
Vitola The size and shape designation of a cigar. In the Cuban factory system, vitola refers to the exact mold and proportions (vitola de galera = factory name) as well as the commercial name (vitola de salida = the name used on the box). In common usage, vitola simply means the cigar's size and shape, such as Robusto, Toro, Churchill, or Torpedo. See the complete cigar sizes guide.
Volado The lowest leaves on a tobacco plant. Volado receives the least sunlight and produces thin, mild leaves with excellent combustion properties. Used primarily to help a cigar burn evenly. Contributes very little flavor or strength on its own.
Vuelta Abajo
The premier tobacco-growing region of Cuba, located in the Pinar del Río province on the western tip of the island. Considered by many to be the finest cigar tobacco terroir in the world. All Cuban cigars bearing the Denominación de Origen Protegida
use tobacco from Vuelta Abajo.
W
Wedge Cut See V-Cut.
Wrapper The outermost leaf of a cigar. The wrapper is the most visually important and often the most expensive component. A premium wrapper must be nearly flawless in appearance: uniform color, minimal veins, no tears, with an oily sheen. The wrapper contributes an estimated 40-60% of a cigar's overall flavor. Common wrapper types include Connecticut Shade, Habano, Maduro, Corojo, Sumatra, Cameroon, and Broadleaf. See our complete guide to understanding cigar wrappers.
Wrapper Color Spectrum From lightest to darkest: Double Claro (Candela/green), Claro (light tan), Colorado Claro (Natural/medium brown), Colorado (reddish brown), Colorado Maduro (dark reddish brown), Maduro (dark brown to black), Oscuro (near black). Darker wrappers generally indicate more fermentation and bolder, sweeter flavors.
X
Xikar A popular brand of premium cigar accessories, including cutters, lighters, and humidification products. Known for their lifetime warranty. Browse cigar accessories on CigarFinder.
Y
Yagua The bark of the royal palm tree used to wrap tercios (bales) of tobacco in Cuba. The yagua is a natural, breathable material that helps regulate moisture during the aging and storage of raw tobacco leaves.
Z
Zino A cigar brand within the Davidoff family, created by Zino Davidoff. Originally an ultra-premium line, the modern Zino brand offers more accessible blends while maintaining the Davidoff standard of quality.
