7 Interesting Facts on How Cigars Are Made
For years, cigars have been a status symbol of splendor and success. Rich and indulgent, cigars are often favored by those who appreciate the finer things in life. A good cigar is like a fine wine in that it’s satisfying and comforting to all of the senses. Smoking a quality cigar is often how many people unwind after a long day or relax after a big meal.
If you are a cigar smoker, you may be curious about how your favorite roll of dried tobacco leaves is made. Learning more about your cigars can be beneficial in a number of ways and will keep you in the know about what you are smoking. Here are 7 interesting facts on how cigars are made.
Cigar Tobacco Is Grown In Several Countries
The tobacco used in cigars is mainly grown in Cuba, Honduras, Brazil, Jamaica, Cameroon, Dominican Republic, Mexico, Ecuador, Indonesia, Philippines, Nicaragua, and the United States. The tobacco grown in Cuba is considered to be of the highest quality. Climate is important in the growing process, as tobacco thrives in tropical, subtropical, and temperate weather conditions.
Cigars Contain 3 Types Of Tobacco Leaves
All cigars are composed of binders, fillers, and wrappers. The cigar wrapper is made from the most flavorful tobacco and must be grown under shade to prevent it from growing too thick or rough. The binders typically come from the bottom of the tobacco plant and have very little flavor. The cigar filler can come from any part of the plant, but most cigars use a blend of varying sources for the best flavor and burning qualities.
The Color Of The Cigar Matters
Cigars with darker wrappers are usually sweeter in taste, while those with lighter wrappers typically have a more mild or smooth flavor. The longer the tobacco was left to ferment, the darker the color and stronger the flavor. Cigars come in a variety of colors and shades, and each has a very unique and special flavor.
One Cigar Can Contain As Much Tobacco As 20 Cigarettes
A single cigar usually contains about 5 to 17 grams of tobacco. One cigarette typically has less than a gram of tobacco, so just one cigar can contain just as much tobacco as an entire pack of cigarettes.
There Are Two Main Shapes Of Cigars
Cigars are produced in two different shapes. The Parejo is a cylindrical-shaped cigar with straight sides and is the most common shape produced. The Figurado is a style that refers to all unconventionally shaped cigars. Figurado cigars are usually more expensive because they are more difficult to produce than Parejo cigars.
Cigars Can Be Made In A Variety Of Flavors
Cigars are produced in a wide assortment of unique flavors that may appeal to the smoker who is tired of the traditional cigar. Flavors may include vanilla, honey, grape, blackberry, rum, pina colada, chocolate, mint, coffee, cherry, spice, black currant, and mandarin orange. Flavored cigars are made by infusing the tobacco with aromatic ingredients and extracts.
The Largest Cigar Factory In The World Is Located In Dominican Republic
The Dominican Republic is home to Tabacalera de Garcia, the world’s largest cigar factory. The complex was built in 1971 and employs about 4,700 people. Over 60 different brands of cigars are produced in this single factory and more than 100,000 handmade cigars are created here a day. The Tabacalera de Garcia also produces all of the boxes and labels used in the packaging of their cigars.
A lot goes into the production of your cigar before you ultimately light up and smoke. Much like a good wine, a quality cigar is made with the finest ingredients and care. Next time you decide to pull out your favorite cigar, perhaps these interesting facts will make your experience just a little more meaningful. If anything, they make for an interesting conversation with fellow cigar lovers!
