In the world of fine tobacco, few items offer the same balance of refinement and convenience as the cigarrito—the smaller cousin of the traditional cigar. Also known as the cigarrillo, this petite vitola delivers the elegance of a cigar without the commitment. Though often overlooked in favour of their larger counterparts, cigarritos have a rich history intertwined with the glamour of Hollywood and the sophistication of European aristocracy. From their origins in Spain and Cuba to the upscale lounges of 20th-century New York and Los Angeles, cigarritos have long been synonymous with luxury, leisure, and a discerning taste for the finer things in life. But how did this small cigar become so iconic? And why does it continue to appeal to the modern connoisseur?
The Origins of the Cigarrito: A Heritage of Craftsmanship
The cigarrillo—derived from the Spanish word for “little cigar”—was born in the 19th century, in Spain and Cuba, two of the most influential centres of cigar culture. Unlike the mass-produced cigarettes of the time, cigarrillos were crafted with the same care and attention to detail as traditional cigars. Made from the finest tobacco and hand-rolled with precision, they offered a more refined smoking experience than their mass-market counterparts, which were often filled with cheap, processed tobacco.
In Spain, cigarrillos became popular among the elite, often smoked in private clubs and social circles that appreciated a lighter, more convenient alternative to the full-size cigar. By the 1800s, they had become a symbol of sophistication, typically enjoyed by the Spanish aristocracy. This reputation would spread across the Atlantic, where Cuba—already renowned for its high-quality cigars—began producing cigarrillos as well. Cuban cigarrillos, rolled from the island's world-famous tobacco, quickly became a global standard for quality.
Hollywood Glamour: Cigarritos in the Golden Age of Cinema
By the mid-20th century, cigarritos were firmly entrenched in the cultural lexicon of the elite, finding their way into the glamorous world of Hollywood. In the opulent lounges and dimly lit clubs of Los Angeles, stars like Errol Flynn, Cary Grant, and Lauren Bacall could often be seen with a cigarrito in hand, their slender forms casting a sophisticated shadow against the velvet booths of places like Chateau Marmont and The Trocadero Club. These clubs, where power and influence were as palpable as the smoke in the air, became synonymous with the fine art of indulgence—and the cigarrito was the perfect accessory to the world of cocktails, champagne, and whispered deals.
Even Winston Churchill, the British statesman who was famous for his larger-than-life cigars, was known to enjoy a smaller, more compact version of the cigar during certain occasions. He preferred the short, strong cigars that the cigarrito represented—smaller in size, but not in character. Churchill’s love for fine cigars transcended time and place, and his occasional indulgence in a cigarrito speaks to the versatility of the format, appealing to those who valued the craftsmanship of cigars but required something more compact.
Hollywood’s golden age wasn’t the only time the cigarrito had its moment. At venues like Café de la Paix in Paris and London’s Claridge’s, cigarritos became the smoke of choice for a sophisticated crowd. Famous faces—from royalty to literary figures—could be spotted relaxing with a cigarrito between conversations, their presence lending even more cachet to the already esteemed reputation of the small cigar.
The Rise of the Cigarrito: A Small Revolution in Craftsmanship
The 20th century saw a shift in the way cigars were consumed. Mass production led to the rise of accessible cigars, but despite the growing market for affordable alternatives, the demand for high-quality cigarrillos remained strong. These small cigars, often rolled with the same premium tobaccos used in larger formats, continued to appeal to those who wanted a brief but indulgent smoking experience.
Today, cigarritos have remained a symbol of sophistication, though now, they are not just for the elite. As smoking regulations evolved and the pace of modern life quickened, the cigarrito’s convenient size made it an appealing option for those who still wanted to enjoy the art of smoking without the time commitment of a traditional cigar.
EGM Cigarritos: Where Craftsmanship Meets Convenience
Enter EGM Cigars' Cigarrito, a modern interpretation of this timeless classic. Crafted entirely by hand, EGM’s cigarritos are made with long-filler tobacco sourced from the Dominican Republic—a region known for producing some of the world’s finest tobacco. These beautifully compact cigars are packaged in a sleek tin of six, designed to fit effortlessly into your pocket or purse, making them the ultimate companion for the modern connoisseur on the go.
Measuring 115mm in length with a ring gauge of 26, the Laguito No. 3 vitola used in EGM Cigarritos delivers a light, refined flavor profile that balances the rich complexity of premium tobacco with the convenience of a quick smoke. Whether you're enjoying a moment of reflection at home or on a brief break during a busy day, EGM Cigarritos offer a moment of indulgence without compromise. Their craftsmanship ensures that, even in a compact form, they provide a smoke that’s both smooth and satisfying—a perfect choice for those who appreciate the finer things in life but demand convenience and portability.
Cigarritos in Today’s World: A Contemporary Icon
As the world of premium tobacco evolves, the appeal of the cigarrito remains strong, particularly in the context of modern urban life. Today, the cigarrito continues to be a favored option for those who appreciate the quality of a fine cigar but don’t have the time or inclination for a full-length smoke. From Manhattan’s Cigar Bar to the intimate lounges of Madrid, cigarritos are the preferred choice of those who enjoy an elegant, quick indulgence.
The EGM Cigarrito, in particular, represents the perfect intersection of craftsmanship and convenience. With its hand-rolled precision and superior Dominican tobacco, it provides an elevated smoking experience, no matter where you are. These cigarritos fit seamlessly into the lifestyle of today’s modern connoisseur, offering a luxurious escape from the fast-paced demands of daily life.
Conclusion: A Small Cigar, Big Legacy
The cigarrillo, or cigarrito, is a testament to the art of smoking. From its origins in Spain and Cuba to its place in Hollywood’s golden age and European high society, this small cigar has always been more than just a smoke—it’s a symbol of sophistication, quality, and a lifestyle that values craftsmanship. Whether it’s the sleek lounges of Paris or the sun-drenched terraces of the Mediterranean, cigarritos have been the companion to many of the world’s most discerning individuals.
With products like EGM Cigars' Cigarrito, the legacy of the cigarrito continues to thrive. Handcrafted with the finest Dominican tobacco, these compact cigars offer the same quality and craftsmanship that made cigarritos an icon of elegance and leisure. For today’s modern connoisseur—whether you’re in the heart of the city or on the move—EGM Cigarritos offer an opportunity to indulge in the luxury of premium tobacco without compromise.