Strength (Body)
In the world of cigars, strength—also referred to as body—describes the physical impact and nicotine intensity of a cigar on the smoker. It’s a measure of how strong the cigar feels, not how it tastes. While flavor and strength are often confused, they are two distinct elements of the cigar experience.
A cigar’s strength affects how much of a nicotine buzz it delivers, how full it feels in the mouth and lungs, and how it may impact the smoker's body—especially if smoked on an empty stomach.
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What Determines a Cigar’s Strength?
Strength is influenced primarily by the type of tobacco leaves used, where they are grown, and how long they are aged. Leaves harvested from higher on the tobacco plant, such as ligero, are thicker, stronger, and have more nicotine than leaves from lower primings like seco or volado.
Other factors include:
- Fermentation techniques – longer fermentation can mellow harsh nicotine edges
- Blending choices – combining strong fillers with milder binders and wrappers affects balance
- Tobacco origin – Nicaraguan and Honduran tobaccos tend to produce stronger cigars than Dominican or Ecuadorian counterparts
Strength Classifications
Cigars are generally classified into three basic strength categories:
- Mild – Smooth and easy on the palate with low nicotine; ideal for beginners or morning smoking
- Medium – Balanced body and strength; a versatile category with broader appeal
- Full-Bodied – Bold, rich, and nicotine-heavy; preferred by experienced smokers who enjoy intensity
Some cigars may evolve in strength throughout the smoke, starting mild and becoming fuller toward the final third.
Strength vs. Flavor: What’s the Difference?
It’s common to confuse strength with flavor, but they are not the same. A cigar can be full-flavored yet mild in strength—or it can be strong with very subtle flavors.
- Strength = Intensity of nicotine and body feel
- Flavor = Taste profile (spice, cream, leather, cocoa, etc.)
A full-strength cigar will hit you in the chest or stomach. A full-flavored cigar will make your palate dance. Some cigars deliver both—others emphasize just one.
Why Strength Matters
Knowing a cigar's strength helps you choose a smoke appropriate for your setting, tolerance, and desired experience. Smoking a full-bodied cigar on an empty stomach can lead to nicotine sickness—symptoms include dizziness, nausea, and sweating.
Pairing matters too: a strong cigar pairs well with bold spirits like bourbon or espresso, while a mild one complements lighter beverages like champagne or coffee with milk.
Notable Strong Cigars (Full-Bodied)
- Padron Serie 1926 Maduro
- Liga Privada No. 9
- LFD Double Ligero
- My Father Le Bijou 1922
- Oliva Serie V Melanio
These cigars are known for delivering power, complexity, and long finishes—best reserved for experienced smokers.
Related Glossary Entries
Summary
Strength (body) is a defining characteristic of any cigar, shaping the physical and physiological side of the experience. Understanding a cigar’s strength helps you find smokes that suit your preferences—and ensures you enjoy them in the right context.