What Is a Prince of Wales Cigar?

The Prince of Wales format is a study in length-driven evolution. With examples spanning 6.0 to 8.0 inches and ring gauges from 46 to 52, this vitola sits at the intersection of a Churchill and a Toro—but its true character emerges from the longer 8-inch iterations. At 47–52 ring gauge, the draw resistance is moderate and forgiving, allowing a slower, cooler burn that lets the filler’s complexity unfold without the harshness of a narrower gauge. The larger ring gauge (especially at 52) increases the filler-to-wrapper ratio, which mutes the wrapper’s top notes and pushes the blend’s core—earth, cedar, and subtle sweetness—to the forefront. The extended length (8.0 inches) is the defining feature: as the smoke travels further, it cools significantly, preserving delicate nuances in the first half, while the second half builds warmth and intensity, revealing deeper leather and spice. Compared to a Robusto (5.0 x 50), the Prince of Wales offers a longer, more gradual arc—where a Robusto hits its peak quickly, the Prince of Wales rewards patience with a slow, layered transition. The 6.0 x 46 variant, however, behaves closer to a Corona Gorda, with a tighter draw and more concentrated flavor from the start.

Prince of Wales Cigars in AshMap (3)

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Prince of Wales cigar?

A Prince of Wales is a long, medium-to-full-bodied vitola typically measuring 6.0 to 8.0 inches in length with a ring gauge between 46 and 52. It is characterized by a slow, cool burn and a flavor profile that evolves from mild and creamy to richer and more intense over the course of the smoke.

How long does a Prince of Wales cigar take to smoke?

At a normal cadence of one to two puffs per minute, an 8.0 x 47 or 8.0 x 52 Prince of Wales will last approximately 90 to 120 minutes. The shorter 6.0 x 46 version reduces that to about 60 to 75 minutes, depending on your pace.

What ring gauge is a Prince of Wales?

The Prince of Wales format typically ranges from 46 to 52 ring gauge. Common sizes include 8.0 x 47, 8.0 x 52, and 6.0 x 46, with the larger ring gauges offering a more open draw and a greater proportion of filler tobacco relative to the wrapper.

What are the best Prince of Wales cigars?

The Macanudo Cafe Prince Of Wales (8.0 x 47) is a benchmark for a mild, creamy smoke with subtle cedar and nut notes. For a bolder experience, the Macanudo Maduro Prince of Wales (8.0 x 52) delivers a richer, earthier profile with a touch of cocoa and a more substantial body.

Is a Prince of Wales good for beginners?

Yes, particularly the Macanudo Cafe Prince Of Wales. Its 47 ring gauge offers a smooth draw without overwhelming intensity, and the long length allows a gentle, gradual introduction to flavor development. However, the 8-inch length demands a longer time commitment—so a beginner should plan for a full session rather than a quick smoke.