Where Did it Come From?

Tobacco is grown around the world. Some places (like Cuba and Honduras) are known for their tobacco, while other places are not. In this next section, we will discuss a few of the countries where tobacco is made, and what you can typically expect (if anything) from the tobacco used there.

Havana

The most popular region that cigars are produced in is Havana, and with good reason. When you hear someone lob out the term Cuban Cigar, they are referring to those made in Havana (pretty much all Cuban cigars are made there). There is much to be said about a Havana cigar. Too much in fact, to be covered in this brief section. We will, however, take a very close look at the myths and facts surrounding these cigars at a later date, including how to tell if it is a real “Cuban” or not.

Dominican Republic

Long known for mild cigars, in recent years the Dominican Republic has produced every “strength” of cigar. Nowadays, the Dominican Republic is known for producing consistently good tobacco, perhaps some of the finest outside of Cuba. The key to remember here is that outside of Cuba, manufacturers used tobacco from around the world, so saying the Dominican Republic has the best (or worst) tobacco is a difficult thing to do.

However, when it comes to the technique of blending, they are regarded as one, if not the, best.

Mexico

Picturing the stereotypical Mexican, with their thick mustaches, dark five o'clock shadow, and rugged stogie hanging from their lips, you would expect their cigars to be full-bodied and tough. Traditionally, every country outside of Cuba uses Mexican tobacco. Because of its harsher climate, the leaves tend t be darker, and full of nicotine and tar. Their cigars are known for being full bodied and with good reason.

Honduras

Another full bodied country, the Honduras also has somewhat of a rugged climate. For years they produced only “strong” cigars, until they were eventually allowed to import other tobacco and tobaco technologies, allowing them to blend – and grow – milder cigars. You will find many Cuban-style cigars coming out of Honduras, and their quality is nearly second to none.

The Bottom Line

As I will say (and trust me, have said) in every one of these articles, in the end, what type of cigar, wrapper, tobacco, cut, lighter, and so forth, depends upon your own personal taste. You will not know until you try them. And not just once, but multiple times.