There are few things in the world that are undoubtedly among the best of their kind. The Habano or Havana cigar is one of them.
There are few places in the world where tobacco is produced as well as in Cuba. But even here, there are only a few places that are suitable for the production of Habanos tobacco.
TOBACCO-GROWING AREAS
There are four tobacco growing regions in Cuba where the tobacco for cigars with the "Habano" mark of origin is harvested.
"Vuelta Arriba", "Partido", "Semi Vuelta" and "Vuelta Abajo
In this last part of the Pinar del Rio province, tobacco varieties are grown that are among the best in the world. Cuba offers a unique blend of climate and soil characteristics found nowhere else in the world.
TYPE OF CULTIVATION
Tobacco plants are grown in two ways, depending on how the tobacco leaves are to be utilised later.
The wrapper leaves are grown in "Tabaco Tapado" farms (covered fields). To achieve a delicate and smooth texture of the leaf, these plantations are shielded from the sun by a thin cloth.
The lower leaves provide a lighter cover.
The upper leaves produce a darker wrapper.
The leaves of the filler and binder (capote) are grown in direct sunlight. Three main types are distinguished:
The "ligero" tobacco is the strongest and gives the cigar its flavour. It is found in the upper part of the plant.
The "seco" is medium-bodied and essential for the fragrance. The "volado" is at the bottom of the plant and is the weakest. It is highly sought after for its combustibility and its ability to serve as a binder
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