If you’re exploring premium cigars, you’ve likely noticed two distinct shapes in your tobacconist’s humidor: the traditional round cigar and the more angular box pressed variety. Let’s explore what sets these styles apart and why you might prefer one over the other.
What are box pressed cigars?
Box pressed cigars have a squared-off shape with four distinct edges and flat sides. While less common than their round counterparts, they’ve gained popularity among both manufacturers and smokers, particularly from Nicaragua and Honduras. The distinctive shape isn’t just for looks – it actually influences how the cigar smokes. These cigars often catch the eye of collectors and enthusiasts due to their unique appearance and the craftsmanship required to create them. You’ll often find premium brands offering box pressed versions of their most popular blends.
What are round cigars?
Round cigars feature the classic cylindrical shape most people associate with cigars. This traditional profile has been the standard for centuries and remains the most common shape you’ll find. Every major cigar-producing country creates round cigars, from Cuba to the Dominican Republic. The round shape allows for the most natural rolling process and has been perfected over generations of cigar making. These cigars represent the purest expression of traditional cigar craftsmanship and remain the benchmark against which all other shapes are compared.
How are box pressed cigars made?
The process starts with a traditionally rolled cigar that’s then subjected to pressure from all four sides while in wooden boxes. Over several weeks, as the tobacco’s moisture content decreases, the cigars take on their characteristic square shape. This technique was originally developed to fit more cigars into shipping containers but has evolved into a deliberate manufacturing choice that affects the smoking experience. The pressing process requires careful monitoring to ensure the cigars aren’t damaged and that the pressure is evenly distributed. Some manufacturers use special wooden moulds during this process, while others rely on the natural pressure created by tight box packaging.
How are round cigars made?
Round cigars are crafted using centuries-old techniques. Expert rollers, called torcedores, carefully bundle filler tobacco inside binder and wrapper leaves, maintaining an even, cylindrical shape throughout the process. The cigars are then placed in round moulds while they cure. Each roller develops its own subtle technique over years of practice, but the basic process remains unchanged from traditional methods. The wrapper leaf must be applied with particular care to maintain the smooth, round appearance that cigar smokers expect. Most rollers can produce hundreds of perfectly shaped cigars per day.
Do box pressed cigars burn differently from round cigars?
Box pressed cigars tend to burn more evenly thanks to their squared edges, which create natural channels for airflow. Many smokers report they burn cooler than round cigars, though this can vary between manufacturers and specific blends. The squared shape can also affect how ash forms and holds, with box pressed cigars often producing a more solid ash column. Some enthusiasts claim this cooler burn allows them to better appreciate the subtle flavours in the tobacco blend.
Do box pressed cigars have a different draw?
The pressing process typically results in a slightly firmer draw compared to round cigars. However, many enthusiasts appreciate this resistance, claiming it helps deliver more concentrated flavour. The squared shape also means less air passes around the tobacco, potentially intensifying the taste. This firmer draw can also help prevent smoking too quickly, allowing you to better appreciate the cigar’s complexity. Some smokers find they need to adjust their drawing technique slightly when switching between round and box pressed cigars to get optimal smoke production.
Are box pressed cigars stronger than round cigars?
The strength of a cigar depends on its tobacco blend rather than its shape. However, the compressed tobacco in box pressed cigars can create a more concentrated smoking experience, making the flavours seem more intense. This concentration effect doesn’t actually change the strength of the tobacco itself, but it might influence how you perceive the flavours and body of the smoke. Some manufacturers even produce the same blend in both round and box pressed formats, allowing smokers to compare the differences themselves. Many enthusiasts enjoy doing side-by-side comparisons to detect these subtle variations in the smoking experience.
What are the benefits of box pressed cigars?
Even burn
The squared edges help promote an even burn, requiring fewer touch-ups during smoking. The uniform pressure applied during the pressing process can help eliminate soft spots that might cause burning issues. This consistent density throughout the cigar often results in a more reliable smoking experience. The channelled corners can also help guide the burn, though proper lighting technique remains important.
Comfortable grip
Many smokers find box pressed cigars more comfortable to hold, as they won’t roll off surfaces and sit naturally between fingers. The flat sides provide a secure grip that some find less fatiguing during longer smoking sessions. This practical advantage makes box pressed cigars particularly popular among those who enjoy reading or working while smoking. The squared shape also means that there will be gaps between your mouth and the cigar. This means that when you draw on the cigar, you will also suck in air through these gaps, which can cause a cooler draw.
Slower smoking experience
Despite what some might expect, box-pressed cigars typically feature a looser draw while burning at a slower rate. This combination creates a distinctive smoking experience where the flavour remains remarkably consistent throughout the entire smoke. Unlike round cigars, which often develop and shift in taste as the tobacco heats up, box-pressed cigars tend to maintain their signature flavour profile from start to finish. This makes them particularly appealing to smokers who prefer a steady, reliable taste experience over a more complex, evolving one.
What are the benefits of round cigars?
Round cigars offer their own distinct advantages that have kept them popular for centuries. They’re more widely available, which means you’ll have access to a broader range of blends, sizes, and price points. The traditional shape allows for more consistent rolling techniques, which can result in more predictable construction quality. The natural shape also tends to showcase wrapper leaves more effectively, displaying their natural oils and colours to full advantage. Additionally, round cigars often offer a more open draw, which some smokers prefer, and they’re generally easier to cut cleanly due to their even surface.
Which type of cigar is better for you?
Your choice between box pressed and round cigars ultimately depends on your smoking preferences. If you enjoy a consistent flavour profile and relaxed smoking session, try box pressed options like the Padron 1964 Anniversary Series or Alec Bradley Prensado. These cigars offer that signature steady taste that box pressed aficionados love. For those who prefer a more complex, evolving smoke, traditional round cigars like the Montecristo No. 2 deliver an ever-changing flavour journey. New to cigars? Start with classic round cigars like Romeo y Julieta or H. Upmann to develop your palate.
Remember, there’s no wrong choice – both styles offer excellent smoking experiences when crafted with quality tobacco.
