What makes a cigar more than just a product? For Mike Cornell of M and M Cigars, it’s the story behind each vitola—the shape and size of a cigar—that reveals the artistry and thoughtfulness of the cigar-making craft. In this article, Cornell takes us on a sensory exploration of cigar vitolas, where tradition and culture intertwine.
Cornell recalls one of his most memorable experiences with a cigar, a figurado—a tapered cigar with a pointed head and a bulging middle—blended in the Dominican Republic. He describes it as an experiment that surpassed all expectations, as he was pleasantly surprised by the amount of smoke and flavor that the cigar produced. “It was like a firework show in my mouth,” he says, “It was one of those moments that you never forget.”
Cornell attributes his appreciation for diverse vitolas to the cultural influences that he has encountered throughout his life. He has traveled to various countries, such as Indonesia, Mexico, Honduras, Nicaragua, and the Dominican Republic, where he has learned about the history and traditions of cigar making. He says that each culture contributes to the mosaic of experiences that shape his perspective, transcending a specific influence on his vitola preferences. “I don’t have a favorite vitola,” he says, “I like to embrace the diversity of flavors and stories from around the world.”
However, Cornell does admit that he has a soft spot for certain vitolas, depending on his mood or the occasion. For instance, he finds solace in the double robusto—a thick and short cigar that offers ample smoke and a 45-minute immersive experience. He also has a fondness for Coronas, the timeless classics that measure around 5.5 inches long and have a ring gauge of 42. He says that Coronas remind him of the elegance and sophistication of Ybor City, the historic district in Tampa, Florida, where he used to play dominoes and socialize with other cigar enthusiasts. He says that Coronas are a prime example of a vitola that has endured over time, popularized in Cuba as a cigar for the working man and the gentleman.
As a brand owner, Cornell faces the challenge of navigating the delicate balance between tradition and innovation in the cigar industry. He says that he respects the classic vitolas that have been around for decades, such as the Churchill, the Torpedo, and the Lonsdale, and he tries to revive them with his own twist. He also acknowledges the need to introduce new vitolas that cater to the changing tastes and preferences of the market, such as the Nub, the Lancero, and the Salomon. He says that ensuring consistency and quality across different vitolas is a meticulous art that requires attention to detail and constant feedback. He says that he has not introduced a new vitola based on customer demand or feedback yet, but he is always open to suggestions.
Cornell says that he is not limited by the traditional markets, such as Cuba, which faces accessibility and quality issues. Instead, he explores the possibilities of tobaccos from other places, such as Indonesia, Mexico, Honduras, Nicaragua, and the Dominican Republic. He says that he enjoys the blend of spices, citrus, and diverse tobaccos that create a harmonious and distinctive flavor profile.
In every vitola, Cornell invites you to join him on a journey where tradition, culture, and innovation converge in a celebration of the cigar-making craft. He says that each vitola is a narrative, reflecting his brand’s commitment to diversity and quality. He says that he hopes that his cigars will inspire you to discover your own stories and passions, and to share them with others. “A cigar is more than just a product,” he says, “It’s a way of life.”
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