Churchill

The Churchill is a long, elegant cigar format typically measuring 7 inches in length with a 47-ring gauge. Named after British Prime Minister Winston Churchill, who was famously devoted to cigars, this vitola is synonymous with refined smoking and extended enjoyment. It’s an ideal format for smokers who appreciate a slow, evolving flavor experience.

Size comparison on Churchill, Toro and Robusto

Key Specifications

  • Length: ~7.0 inches
  • Ring Gauge: ~47 (some variations range 46–50)
  • Smoking Time: 75–90+ minutes
  • Shape: Parejo (straight-sided)

Citation: Cigar Aficionado – Churchill Cigar

Origin of the Name

The format was named after Winston Churchill, who was rarely seen without a cigar in hand. During a 1946 visit to Cuba, the Romeo y Julieta brand honored him by naming a vitola after his signature size. The name stuck and eventually became a standard term in the cigar industry.

Citation: Cigar Journal – Winston Churchill’s Cigar Legacy

Characteristics of a Churchill

  • Extended smoking duration ideal for long, uninterrupted sessions
  • Gradual flavor transitions as the cigar heats up and the tobacco blend evolves
  • Typically medium to full-bodied but can vary by brand and blend
  • Often chosen for celebratory occasions or relaxed, unhurried evenings

Churchill vs. Other Sizes

Size Length Ring Gauge Burn Time
Robusto 5.0 in 50 45–60 mins
Toro 6.0 in 50–54 60–75 mins
Churchill 7.0 in 47 75–90+ mins
Lonsdale 6.5 in 42 50–60 mins

The Churchill’s long frame allows for slower combustion, which often enhances flavor complexity and cigar construction performance.

When to Choose a Churchill

This format is ideal for:

  • Evenings on the patio or long conversations with fellow smokers
  • Weddings, celebrations, and milestones
  • Sampling aged cigars that benefit from extended time
  • Experienced smokers who appreciate subtle flavor evolution

Distinguished gentleman smoking a cigar in a lounge

Famous Churchill Cigars

  • Davidoff Winston Churchill The Late Hour – Rich, bold, and aged in Scotch barrels
  • Romeo y Julieta Churchill – The original namesake, medium-bodied with sweet spice
  • Padron 1964 Anniversary Churchill – Full-bodied Nicaraguan with deep complexity
  • Arturo Fuente Don Carlos Churchill – Balanced, smooth, and critically acclaimed

Romeo y Julieta, Padron, and Davidoff Churchill cigars
Romeo y Julieta,
Padron Natural, and Davidoff Churchill cigars

Storage and Cutting

Due to its length, a Churchill benefits from:

  • Stable humidity between 65–70% to preserve even burn and wrapper integrity
  • A clean straight cut to maximize draw consistency
  • Proper aging (often 6+ months) to allow oils to settle evenly across the long filler

Related Terms

Summary

The Churchill is a vitola that rewards patience, offering an extended smoking experience filled with flavor transitions and slow enjoyment. It’s a format best reserved for occasions when time is on your side. Whether you’re honoring a tradition or simply enjoying the ritual of the leaf, the Churchill lives up to its historic namesake.