Hello and welcome to the first installment of Cigar Graduates. From here on out we will discuss topics that go a bit further than cigar basics. This week is the ever argued subject of box pressed vs round. Do you know the difference? You might as far as knowing how they differ in appearance, but appearance is only part of the difference. Let me start off with explaining square, or box pressed, cigars.
First, were did the square shape come from? It all began when Cuban exporters were squeezing more cigars into each box in order to save on shipping space. Sitting snugly packed over time, they eventually took on the square like shape we know today. Customers began to recognize the style so manufacturers decided to make it a regular addition in many higher end frontmarks (lines).
First, were did the square shape come from? It all began when Cuban exporters were squeezing more cigars into each box in order to save on shipping space. Sitting snugly packed over time, they eventually took on the square like shape we know today. Customers began to recognize the style so manufacturers decided to make it a regular addition in many higher end frontmarks (lines).
As I mentioned before, you will find top shelf cigars in the box pressed shape. However there are enthusiasts tha dislike the shape simply because it doesn't feel right. Other than the evidant shape, box pressed cigars are also known to produce more intense flavors, aromas, and burn longer then their round counter part. But as I always say, try one and make your own judgement. Take no one's opinion to heart!
Your most common cigar shape is the round variety. More cigar enthusiasts enjoy it simply because it fells more comfortable to smoke. Now as flavor is concerned, it is said that round cigars tend to be less intense. I personally haven't noticed a dramatic difference, as I have tried both box pressed and round cigars within the same frontmark.
Because box pressed cigars are less common, there are few manufacturers who continue to make them the "traditional" way, by over-stuffing the boxes. These days they're molded into the iconic shape. The roller under fills each cigar with about 10% less tobacco than usual, then presses them into flat sided molds. Under filling allows the cigars to draw well after being compressed into shape. This technique is more commonly referred to as Trunk Pressing.
Manufacturers such as Montecristo and Partagas of Cuba, continue the traditionl process of box pressing. They pack flat top dress boxes with cigars then stack them on top of one another in a giant press. At which time they are physically pressed inside the boxes until they achieve a squared off look.
As far as the sizes go, box pressed cigars are categorized no differently than the round variety. A box pressed cigar that is 5x50 is still a Robusto, just as a round cigar of the same dimensions would be. I recommend trying both shapes in the Rocky Patel Vintage 1990, as well as the Rocky Patel Decade; you might find you enjoy one over the other.
[Golfers Tip] - If you don't have a cigar caddy or clip to rest your stogie in, try choosing the box pressed cigars for you golf games. The shape allows you to place the cigar on any flat surface without it rolling away.
Next time, have you ever thought about keeping a cigar journal? It's fairly simple and allows you to keep track of your favorite stogies. Until next week, take care!
Because box pressed cigars are less common, there are few manufacturers who continue to make them the "traditional" way, by over-stuffing the boxes. These days they're molded into the iconic shape. The roller under fills each cigar with about 10% less tobacco than usual, then presses them into flat sided molds. Under filling allows the cigars to draw well after being compressed into shape. This technique is more commonly referred to as Trunk Pressing.
Manufacturers such as Montecristo and Partagas of Cuba, continue the traditionl process of box pressing. They pack flat top dress boxes with cigars then stack them on top of one another in a giant press. At which time they are physically pressed inside the boxes until they achieve a squared off look.
As far as the sizes go, box pressed cigars are categorized no differently than the round variety. A box pressed cigar that is 5x50 is still a Robusto, just as a round cigar of the same dimensions would be. I recommend trying both shapes in the Rocky Patel Vintage 1990, as well as the Rocky Patel Decade; you might find you enjoy one over the other.
[Golfers Tip] - If you don't have a cigar caddy or clip to rest your stogie in, try choosing the box pressed cigars for you golf games. The shape allows you to place the cigar on any flat surface without it rolling away.
Next time, have you ever thought about keeping a cigar journal? It's fairly simple and allows you to keep track of your favorite stogies. Until next week, take care!
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