What Is a Flying Pig (Perfecto) Cigar?

The Flying Pig is a distinctive Perfecto vitola, most famously associated with Drew Estate’s Liga Privada and Undercrown lines. It is characterized by a pig-tailed cap, a closed foot, and a short, bulbous body that tapers slightly toward both ends, giving it a porcine silhouette. Typical dimensions range from 4.5 to 4.75 inches in length with a massive 60-ring gauge, making it a short, fat cigar. The unusual shape requires a careful cut—usually a straight cut just below the pigtail—and a slow, even toast of the closed foot to ensure an even burn. Once lit, the Flying Pig delivers a concentrated, medium-full to full-bodied smoke due to the high filler-to-wrapper ratio and the dense tobacco core. Smoke duration is surprisingly long for its size, often lasting 45 to 60 minutes, as the thick ring gauge and tapered shape slow the burn rate. Flavor delivery is intense and creamy, with the closed foot providing a slow build of complexity. This vitola is favored by experienced smokers who appreciate a bold, short smoke that doesn’t sacrifice depth, as well as collectors who enjoy the novelty and craftsmanship of a classic Perfecto shape.

Flying Pig (Perfecto) Cigars in AshMap (2)

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Flying Pig (Perfecto) cigar?

A Flying Pig is a short, fat Perfecto-shaped cigar with a signature pigtail cap and a closed foot. It typically measures 4.5 to 4.75 inches with a 60-ring gauge. The shape is iconic for its tapered ends and bulbous center, originally popularized by Drew Estate. The closed foot requires a slow toast, and the pigtail should be cut cleanly just above the cap to avoid unraveling.

How long does a Flying Pig (Perfecto) cigar take to smoke?

Despite its short length, a Flying Pig typically takes 45 to 60 minutes to smoke. The thick 60-ring gauge and tapered design concentrate the filler and slow the burn rate, delivering a sustained, full-flavored experience. Smokers should allow extra time for the closed foot to light evenly.

What ring gauge is a Flying Pig (Perfecto)?

The standard ring gauge for a Flying Pig is 60, though some variations may be slightly smaller. The large ring gauge is essential to the vitola’s profile, providing a dense draw and high wrapper-to-filler ratio that amplifies flavor intensity.

What are the best Flying Pig (Perfecto) cigars?

The most well-known Flying Pigs come from Drew Estate’s Undercrown line, including the original Undercrown Flying Pig and the Undercrown Shade Flying Pig. Both are highly regarded for their bold, creamy profiles and meticulous construction. Liga Privada No. 9 has also occasionally appeared in this shape. For enthusiasts, these are considered benchmarks of the vitola.

Is a Flying Pig (Perfecto) good for beginners?

Generally, no. The Flying Pig’s closed foot, pigtail cap, and large ring gauge require advanced cutting and lighting technique. Additionally, the flavor profile is typically medium-full to full-bodied, which may overwhelm newer smokers. Beginners should start with a standard Robusto or Corona before attempting a Perfecto like the Flying Pig.