subject: The Different Types Of Tobacco Produced By Different Countries [print this page] The tobacco that is used in your cigars can be grown in one of several different countries. This handy guide will provide you with a brief intro to the different types of tobacco that are produced all over the world. Obviously, tobacco is the critical ingredient to cigars, and knowing where it comes from can guide you in choosing cigars whose flavors you will enjoy.
Cuba - Cuban tobacco is generally described as spicy and full bodied. It tends to be highly aromatic and complex in taste. Currently, the import of Cuban tobacco is illegal in the United States.
The Dominican Republic The Dominican Republic produces many different strains of tobacco for cigars, and many of these strains originated in Cuba. Therefore, the tobacco for cigars produced here tends to be quite complex in taste, but it is not as spicy at Cuban tobacco.
Ecuador The tobacco grown in Ecuador is most often described as simple. It is not complex in flavor, and it tends to have a mild flavor, which is why it is so often used as the wrapper of cigars.
Honduras Honduras is famous for growing several different strains of tobacco. Their tobacco is known as being full bodied and well rounded in flavor. Honduran tobacco may or may not be spicy, and it features a strong aroma. It is quite popular among many cigar enthusiasts.
Mexico Mexico is not well know for its superior tobacco selection. However, the type of tobacco that is grown here is strong, and it withstands the fermentation process well. For this reason, tobacco that is grown in Mexico is often used as binders for cigars, because of its heartiness.
Nicaragua In terms of complexity, flavor, and taste, Nicaraguan tobacco is considered to be quite close to that of Honduran tobacco. Many cigar aficionados believe that it is less well rounded than Honduran tobacco. Nevertheless, it remains a popular option for many cigar manufacturers.
Cameroon This region is one of the lesser known growers of tobacco throughout the world. Their tobacco tends to be quite neutral in terms of flavor and taste. Due to this neutrality, it is often used to bind and wrap complex fillers.
The differences in between these different types of tobacco are due to a number of factors, including climate, elevation, weather and soil conditions. Each of these various factors affects tobacco in a different manner. You will often find that a strain of tobacco grown in different areas of the same country will taste differently.
Remember that the type of tobacco that is used in your cigars can be improved through aging in humidors. This can improve the flavor and the taste of the tobacco, so you are encouraged to experiment with different types of cigars and aging. You may be surprised to find that the aging process will improve a particular type of tobacco that you were not previously fond of. Do not be afraid to experiment with different types of tobacco from around the world.