What Is a Flying Pig (Figurado/Salomon-style) Cigar?
The Flying Pig is a radical figurado, typically measuring 4.5 inches with a 60-ring-gauge foot that tapers sharply to a narrow, closed cap. That 60-ring foot pulls in a massive volume of filler, which at first delivers a cool, dense smoke with a broad, blended flavor—think of it as the full chorus of the blend. But as you smoke past the bulge, the taper forces the combustion zone into a smaller diameter, concentrating the filler-to-wrapper ratio and intensifying the wrapper's character. The draw starts open and airy, then tightens as the taper narrows, which slows the burn and raises the smoke temperature slightly, amplifying spice and earth notes. Compared to a Robusto (5 x 50), the Flying Pig offers a more dynamic arc: the Robusto is linear and consistent, while the Pig is a journey from broad sweetness to pointed pepper. The short 4.5-inch length means the flavor evolution is compressed—you get the full range in about 45 minutes, not an hour and a half. The Undercrown Sun Grown Flying Pig exemplifies this, starting with creamy cedar and ending with a sharp, sun-grown kick at the nub.
Flying Pig (Figurado/Salomon-style) Cigars in AshMap (1)
- Undercrown Sun Grown Sun Grown Flying Pig — 4.5 x 60
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Flying Pig (Figurado/Salomon-style) cigar?
A Flying Pig is a short, fat figurado with a 4.5-inch length and a 60-ring-gauge foot that tapers to a narrow, closed cap. The shape creates a changing draw and flavor intensity as you smoke, starting broad and open, then concentrating toward the end.
How long does a Flying Pig (Figurado/Salomon-style) cigar take to smoke?
At a normal cadence of about one puff per minute, a 4.5 x 60 Flying Pig will last roughly 40–50 minutes. The taper slows the burn in the final third, so expect the last inch to take longer than the first.
What ring gauge is a Flying Pig (Figurado/Salomon-style)?
The Flying Pig format is 4.5 inches long with a 60-ring gauge at the foot, tapering down to a much smaller diameter at the cap—often around 40-ring or less at the very tip.
What are the best Flying Pig (Figurado/Salomon-style) cigars?
From the provided list, the Undercrown Sun Grown Flying Pig is the standout reference. It showcases the format's ability to shift from creamy, sun-grown sweetness to a peppery, concentrated finish. Other blends in this shape (if available) would also highlight the taper effect.
Is a Flying Pig (Figurado/Salomon-style) good for beginners?
Not ideal for beginners. The 60-ring foot delivers a dense, powerful first half that can overwhelm a new palate, and the changing draw requires attention to keep the burn even. Its short smoke time is forgiving, but the intensity and taper make it better for those who already know their nicotine tolerance and prefer a dynamic smoke.