Cigar strength explained
Updated November 2026
Strength and body are different
Strength is about nicotine: how much the cigar 'hits' you. Body is about how rich and full the flavour and smoke feel. A cigar can be full-bodied and only medium in strength.
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Where strength comes from
Tobacco leaves get stronger the higher they grow on the plant, because they get more sun. Blenders use three main kinds:
- Volado (lower leaves): mild, burns well.
- Seco (middle leaves): aroma and flavour.
- Ligero (top leaves): the strongest and slowest-burning, the main source of strength.
Choosing your strength
- New to cigars: start mild or mild–medium, ideally after a meal and with a drink of water.
- Regular smokers: medium to medium–full gives the most variety.
- Experienced smokers: full-strength blends, often heavy in ligero.
If a cigar makes you dizzy or queasy, put it down, have something sweet and some water, and rest.
Common questions
What is the difference between cigar strength and body?
Strength is the nicotine effect; body is how rich and full the flavour feels. They often go together but don't have to.
What makes a cigar strong?
Mostly the amount of ligero, the top leaves of the plant, in the filler.
