In the vibrant Chinese port city of Guangzhou, renowned for its bustling commercial activities, we meet Wang Yiming, a young man who has recently earned a PhD in Intelligent Transport System Engineering. In addition to his academic achievements, Yiming manages a bar that he and his partners founded, a venue distinguished by its illuminated ambience, contrasting with the typical dim atmosphere of similar establishments. During our visit, he shares his passion for Cuban mini cigars.
When did you start smoking cigarillos?
It was in the wake of the pandemic in 2020. With so much time to spend at home, I started looking for new entertainment. I first approached the world of spirits, and from there I moved on to cigarillos, cigars and pipes. My first Cuban mini cigar was given to me by a friend after a dinner party; we stayed for a smoke and a drink, and I’ve been hooked ever since.
What is your favourite cigarillo?
Without a doubt, the Montecristo Open Mini. I distinctly remember that a friend gave it to me as well and I was impressed. It had a perfect draw and a richly nuanced flavour; I had about 15-20 minutes of pure enjoyment.
Under what circumstances do you usually smoke a Cuban mini cigar?
Usually after lunch or dinner with friends, accompanied by spirits such as rum. We sit, chat and enjoy a cigarillo. Now I’ve been considering smoking one after waking up as well: the first coffee of the day accompanied by the first cigarillo.
What is the circle of Cuban mini cigar aficionados you know?
Having a bar that allows smoking, I know quite a few aficionados. I would say that for a long time the average age of these people was around 40 years old, but lately I have noticed more young people approaching, and among them many women. I’ve talked to many of them and they tell me they mostly discovered Cuban mini cigars through social media and started connecting with other aficionado, first online and then in person. Some of them entered this world by attending in-person events, like the ones we periodically organise in my bar, occasions that help a lot to expand the aficionado circle of Cuban mini cigars, which are becoming more and more popular in China.
How has your take on Cuban mini cigars evolved over time?
At first I really liked the fact that they were less ‘intimidating’ in size than the big cigars. Now, I think their short smoking time is ideal for different occasions where I don’t have much time, and also for more social occasions.
