Definition
The cap is the small piece of wrapper leaf that seals the head (closed end) of a cigar. Applied with natural vegetable glue, the cap keeps the wrapper from unraveling and provides a clean surface for cutting. It’s one of the last steps in hand-rolling and a mark of true craftsmanship — a well-applied cap ensures both durability and aesthetics.
Structure & Function
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✂️ Location: Found at the head of the cigar — the end you cut and smoke from.
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🍂 Material: Made from the same wrapper leaf, cut into a small circular or pigtail-shaped piece.
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🪶 Purpose: Secures the wrapper and prevents unraveling during handling or cutting.
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🔍 Visual Clue: Handcrafted cigars usually show one to three circular seams, known as triple caps, common in premium Cuban and Dominican cigars.
Types of Cigar Caps
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Single Cap: Common on machine-made or budget cigars.
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Double Cap: Found on many non-Cuban hand-rolled cigars.
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Triple Cap: Signature of Cuban craftsmanship — offers extra protection and visual refinement.
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Pigtail / Flag Cap: Decorative twist or tab left at the end, cut or pulled off before lighting.
For a detailed visual explanation of cigar cap styles and their functions, see Cigar Aficionado’s guide to cutting the cap.
It shows the differences between single, double, and triple caps, and how to cut them without unravelling your cigar.
Pro Tip
When cutting, aim to remove only the shoulder — approximately 1/8 inch. Cutting too deeply can slice through the wrapper, causing it to peel. Always inspect the cap’s seams first and cut just above the curve for a clean draw.
Related Terms
👉 Binder | Filler | Foot
👉 Cigar Construction | Fermentation | Aging
👉 Curing | Wrapper | Wrapper Colors
