Vitola
A vitola is the term used to describe a cigar’s size and shape, typically defined by its length and ring gauge, and sometimes by its specific silhouette (e.g., rounded, box-pressed, torpedo). There are two distinct uses of the term:
- Vitola de galera – The factory name used by cigar makers to describe the dimensions and shape
- Vitola de salida – The commercial name given by the brand (e.g., “Robusto,” “Toro”)
Understanding vitolas helps smokers compare cigars across different brands—even when marketing names vary—and provides insight into how shape and size influence flavor and smoking experience.
Key Characteristics
- Defines: Cigar shape, length, and diameter (ring gauge)
- Format: Often stated as “length × ring gauge” (e.g., 5 x 50)
- Used For: Consistency in production and categorization
-
Influences: Flavor, draw, burn rate, and overall smoke time
Citation: Cigar Aficionado – Cigar Sizes & Shapes
Common Vitola Names (Factory Standard)
| Vitola Name | Length (inches) | Ring Gauge | Description |
| Cigarillo | 3.5–4 | 26–30 | Small, fast smoke |
| Panatela | 5–7.5 | 34–38 | Thin, elegant |
| Corona | ~5.5 | ~42 | Traditional, balanced |
| Robusto | ~5 | ~50 | Short and full-bodied |
| Toro | ~6 | ~52 | Longer Robusto, very popular |
| Churchill | ~7 | ~47 | Long and steady burn |
| Torpedo | Varies | Tapered head | Sharp flavor delivery, complex shape |
| Belicoso | ~5.5 | ~50 | Shorter tapered head |
| Perfecto | Varies | Tapered at both ends | Rare, artistic shape |
| Lonsdale | ~6.5 | ~42 | Longer than Corona, elegant |
| Gordo | ~6 | 60+ | Thick, long smoke |
| Box-Pressed | Varies | Varies | Pressed into square shape |
Vitola vs. Size vs. Shape
| Term | Refers To | Example |
| Vitola | Standardized name + dimensions | Robusto (5 x 50) |
| Size | Numeric dimensions only | 6 x 52 |
| Shape | Physical form (round, tapered, box) | Torpedo, Perfecto |
Note: A “Robusto” can vary slightly in size between brands but still belongs to the same general vitola category.
How Vitola Affects the Smoking Experience
- Burn Time: Longer cigars last longer, naturally
-
Flavor Focus:
- Thin vitolas highlight the wrapper's flavor
- Thick vitolas amplify filler complexity
-
Draw & Construction:
- Tapered shapes like Torpedo or Belicoso change draw pressure and smoke concentration
- Box-pressed cigars may burn cooler and feel different in hand
Citation: Halfwheel – Vitola & Cigar Design
Choosing the Right Vitola
Consider:
- Time Available: Short = Robusto / Cigarillo; Long = Churchill / Gordo
-
Flavor Preference:
- For stronger flavor: Robusto, Lonsdale
- For cooler, longer burn: Toro, Gordo
- For complexity and evolution: Torpedo, Perfecto
- Mouthfeel & Draw: Smaller ring gauges feel tighter, while 60+ RG cigars provide voluminous smoke
Related Glossary Terms
Summary
A vitola is more than just a size—it’s a signal of how a cigar will smoke, taste, and feel. While flavor is shaped by the tobacco blend, the vitola determines how that flavor unfolds. By learning the standard vitola names and their effects, cigar lovers can fine-tune their selections and explore blends the way master blenders intended.