Figurado
The term Figurado refers to any cigar that deviates from the standard straight-sided shape known as a Parejo. Figurados include a variety of shapes such as Torpedo, Belicoso, Perfecto, Pyramid, and Diadema, each featuring tapers, curves, or bulges. These non-linear forms add complexity not only to construction but also to flavor progression, draw control, and visual presentation.
Key Definition
- Figurado: A non-Parejo cigar (i.e., not straight-sided)
- Common Traits: Tapered head, tapered foot, or non-uniform body
- Categories: Torpedo, Belicoso, Perfecto, Pyramid, Diadema
Citation: Cigar Aficionado – Cigar Shapes Guide
Why Figurados Matter
Figurados are often used by manufacturers to showcase artisanal skill. Their irregular shapes require advanced rolling techniques and are more time-consuming to produce. As a result, Figurados frequently appear in limited-edition lines, anniversary releases, and high-end cigars.
Notable characteristics:
- Enhanced flavor transitions as the shape changes airflow and combustion
- Controlled draw thanks to narrowed heads or tapered feet
- Premium connotation due to craftsmanship and aesthetics
- Visual distinction on retail shelves and in humidors
Common Types of Figurados
| Type | Description |
| Torpedo | Straight body with a sharply pointed, tapered head |
| Belicoso | Shorter cigar with a rounded taper at the head |
| Perfecto | Tapered at both head and foot with a bulging center |
| Pyramid | Broad foot tapering to a sharp head (longer than Torpedo) |
| Diadema | Very large, long cigar often tapered at both ends |
Figurado vs. Parejo
| Shape | Sides | Complexity | Draw Style |
| Parejo | Straight | Standard | Even, consistent |
| Figurado | Curved/Tapered | Advanced | Variable, controlled |
While Parejos are the standard cigar shape, Figurados offer a more dynamic smoking experience. The shape changes how the smoke travels through the cigar, often leading to noticeable flavor peaks and transitions.
Notable Figurado Cigars
- Arturo Fuente Hemingway Short Story (Perfecto) – Creamy, spicy, and iconic
- Padron 1964 Torpedo Maduro – Deep, bold Nicaraguan character
- La Aurora Preferidos (Perfecto) – Classic Dominican craftsmanship
- Oliva Serie V Melanio Figurado – Award-winning blend with layered intensity
Citation: Halfwheel – Top-Rated Figurados
Considerations When Smoking a Figurado
- Cut carefully: Don’t overcut tapered heads—start small and adjust
- Toast evenly: Especially for Perfectos, where the foot may be closed or narrow
- Pace yourself: Irregular shapes burn at varying rates—let the cigar settle into each section
- Expect change: Many Figurados are designed for a flavor arc—start mild, build to intensity
Davidoff Gift Selection (Sampler)
Related Glossary Terms
Summary
The Figurado category includes some of the most visually distinctive and technically demanding cigars on the market. Whether you’re looking for dramatic flavor shifts, artisanal construction, or just something unique to mark a special occasion, Figurados deliver craftsmanship, complexity, and an experience that evolves from foot to finish.