Smoking gives many people the opportunity to relax and calm down, reflect on philosophical dilemmas and get answers to many exciting questions. That cigar has become a symbol of smoking.
Before the product hits the store counter, it undergoes thorough processing. Many people are working on its creation. Also, weather conditions and knowledge of the rules for storing tobacco leaves are reflected in the quality of the cigar.
History of Cuban cigar production
From his long voyage, the navigator Christopher Columbus brought to Spain an incredible innovation - the art of smoking twisted leaves, which was owned by the Indians of South America. In the 17th century, Spain came up with the idea of creating a cigar from tobacco leaves.
The very first production of cigars originated in 1541 in Cuba. However, the appearance of a real cigar was still far away. It was released only in 1717.
Until 1817, Cuba did not have the right to export its goods to other countries due to Spain’s existing monopoly on tobacco products. Cuba was a center for tobacco production, but cigars were rolled in Spain.
The Royal Decree of June 23, 1817 gave Cuba the right to manufacture and sell its own products. From that moment on, the boom of cigar factories began, and Cuban products conquered the whole world.
For example, in the 19th century, 600 kinds of cigars were produced in 377 factories in Havana alone. By the 20th century, cigar fashion had peaked. Every true gentleman considered it a duty to appear in society with a cigar. Winston Churchill was a big fan of Cuban cigars.
The Koiba Anavisario cigars, which appeared in the second half of the last century, have long ceased to symbolize luxury and pleasure. For many people, they have become a lifestyle.
The fact that the Cuban cigars and cigarillos of this manufacturer have become world legislators of quality and taste is very difficult to challenge. In the 90s of the last century Cubatabaco conducted a study. Havana products were also taken into account. As a result, Cohiba cigars became the leader. In terms of prestige, other Cuban brands have taken their place behind the brand. There are thirty-four in all.
Production creator
Production arose in 1966 on the basis of a school of cigar-rolling masters. His ideological inspiration was Eduardo Rivera. The brand gained fame thanks to the leader of Cuba, Fidel Castro. She would not be able to withstand fierce competition in the global market if she did not produce such high-quality products that meet the needs of consumers.
Official registration of production took place in 1969, and at the same time, its tobacco products began to be associated with inaccessible luxury. There is an explanation for this. Until 1982, the production of cigars was not intended for the mass consumer, but for members of the Cuban government.
Where is the factory located?
The legendary factory, which for many years has retained its original name, is located in El Laguito. It is a closed institution, which is not allowed to conduct excursions.
Raw materials come from plantations located in the Vuelta Abajo region of the province of Pinar del Rio. The best cigar-making craftsmen work here.
What is the basis for high quality products?
Coiba cigars are a real pride of Liberty Island. The material for creating exquisite products is tobacco leaves grown on only a few plantations. Leaves are distinguished by unique characteristics (triple fermentation), which determines their high cost.
Production technology
For the production of products such as Coiba cigars, the thinnest sheets of the Korokho tobacco plant are selected. They serve as a coating layer. The core of the product contains small leaves. They are carefully selected by breeders.
In addition, the cigar filling undergoes third fermentation. As a result of this technology, leaves get rid of resins and nitrates. The taste of cigars becomes soft and enveloping.
What is fermentation?
Cohiba Cuban cigars undergo triple fermentation.
Fermentation is a complex chemical process involving a gradual change in temperature and humidity. As a result, organic substances turn into inorganic. This gives tobacco certain qualities. Dark factory barns keep a secret of methods of the first two stages of fermentation. Such processing is the best tobacco grown in Cuba.
Large heaps of leaves are called pylons. In them, the process of composting, more precisely the fermentation of the sheet.
At the first stage, tobacco leaves are stacked in piles. Each height is from 50 to 100 cm. Tobacco for a month lies in dark, enclosed spaces. During this period, the content of nicotine and resins in the leaves decreases, new compounds of taste and aroma are formed. The taste of the leaves becomes soft. In addition, their color changes: they turn from golden to dark brown. The longer the fermentation, the darker the leaves become. After the first stage, the leaves are sorted and classified. Leaves of the highest quality are selected for the production of hand-rolled cigars.
Tobacco leaves intended for cigar cover are sent for aging, and suitable for filling and ligament - for secondary fermentation. It is this stage that contributes to the enrichment of leaves with a new aroma and taste and the final balancing of these characteristics. The duration of the process is from 45 to 90 days. Rich in a variety of substances, ligero leaves require longer fermentation, and less strong volado leaves require faster.
At each stage of production, the temperature should be constantly monitored and maintained at a certain indicator. When overheated, tobacco loses all its taste. This will happen if the temperature bar exceeds 42ºС.
After two main treatments, the third fermentation stage begins. It is carried out at the factory. This time, oak barrels are used, which makes tobacco look like cognac.
If triple fermentation was carried out in compliance with all the rules, then the cigars will have a soft, round, according to experts.
How is quality control?
Quality control is the key to the level of consumption of products. At the tobacco factory, all processes are carried out under the strict control of technologists. Coiba cigars are checked for traction in the absence of a cover sheet, the quality of manual sorting in accordance with the color, weight calibration. If something does not correspond to the norm, then the party returns to the torsedor.
The first types of cigars
Since 1971, the production of such products as Coiba cigars, reviews of which indicate that they have always met the best world standards for tobacco products, is no longer carried out by the school, but by the base of the factory in El Dagito. In 1982, the company’s cigars appeared on the world market. Varieties such as Panetelas, Lanceros, and Coronas Especiales were introduced. Products have gained wide popularity among smokers. Its use was considered a sign of good taste.
Cigars of this line appeared in connection with the holding of a world-class soccer championship in Spain. As soon as the novelty was appreciated, it immediately took an honorable first place, becoming elite. Later this segment of cigars was ranked as a classic product and received the general name Cohiba Classika.
In 1989, the Coiba brand was complemented by three more types of new cigars, Esquisitos, Robustos and Esplendidos.
Cigars "Pyramid"
Another notable event was the release of completely unique cigars, one end of which has a pointed shape in the form of a pyramid. They were packed in china containers. It also contained a special humidifier, which contributed to maintaining the quality of products.
This type of cigar is collectible. For this reason, they were never sold individually.
The most expensive coiba brand cigars
Undoubtedly, Cohiba Benike cigars are considered the most expensive brand cigars.
Their appearance was dedicated to the 40th anniversary of the founding of production. They have earned many different awards. The release was of a limited nature, only 400 pieces. The cigars were twisted only by one craftswoman, Norma Fernandez. She was the oldest honorary worker in the factory.
As packaging, wooden boxes trimmed with cedar, ebony, and stingray and buffalo leather were used.
Siglo line of cigars
A very interesting story is the appearance of cigars of the Siglo series. They were released in 1992 in honor of the 500th anniversary of the discovery of America by Christopher Columbus.
At the same time, the Siglo cigar includes five product names that appeared gradually: Siglo 1, Siglo 2, Siglo 3, Siglo 4, Siglo 5. A little later in 2002 there were new cigars "Siglo 6".
All six species symbolize completely different historical milestones. All that unites them is excellent quality and excellent taste.
- Light Siglo 1 cigars include a touch of spice and chocolate. They have an excellent aroma of wood, complemented by the smell of cocoa beans. The finest spice acts as the final chord. The products are characterized by light burning, an inimitable bouquet of exotic smells and impeccable shape. Light cigars "Koiba Siglo 1" are designed for morning relaxation, lunch and leisurely reflections.
- A distinctive feature of "Siglo 2" is the moderately sharp taste of wood with a dry shade. Cigars have an unforgettable aroma and a short rich aftertaste. Such products are designed for different moments. In particular, this category is appreciated due to the ever-changing aroma.
- The most delicate cigars "Siglo 3" are designed for sophisticated lovers of high quality. They contain a touch of cinnamon, nutmeg, sea salt and wood. Such a cigar will present many unforgettable shades in combination with an excellent lunch.
- "Siglo 4" - a symbol of rich taste. This species has a unique complex taste. Cigars include elements of honey, oriental spices, nutmeg and sweet pepper. Cigars "Koiba Siglo 4" will be a real pleasure in the afternoon and will give comfort. This category is among the most noble in its lineup.
- Siglo 5 will give you a fresh scent. Cigars include a touch of color mixed with spices. They belong to an expensive category in the Dalias segment.
- "Siglo 6" is fraught with an intriguing aroma. Tobacco connoisseurs had a chance to see the true creation - cigars with a delicate fresh taste.
"Koiba Robustos"
“Koiba Robustos” cigars, reviews of which indicate that they are easily ignited and exude a rich aroma of the herbaceous mixture, are high-quality products.
The format of these products has gained widespread popularity and is currently taking a leading position in terms of sales.
Coiba Robustos cigars are made up of complex components. It includes the scent of fresh grass and the smell of beans. The first puffs of smoke have a salty taste. Then the smoker will feel the most delicate smack of honey with spices, which dominates the first third of the cigar.
In the second third, a taste of wood appears. The finish is felt for a long time. Coiba Robustos cigars exude sweetish smoke. In the end, it becomes very thick.
"Koiba Esplendidos"
These cigars are classified as classic products. They are a universal option designed for both men and women. Coiba Esplendidos cigars have a dense and rather complex flavor. They are recommended to smoke after dinner with a glass of expensive alcoholic drink. Even before the cigar is lit, it exudes a subtle fruity aroma with an admixture of the smell of flowers. This smell marks the beginning of a pleasant romantic evening.
After cutting the cap in the air, the smell of valerian with honey appears. With the first puff, all tenderness seems to evaporate, as the draft is heavy. But this condition does not last long. The main flavor characteristic of the cigar is a mixture of a pungent fruity odor with the smell of oak barrels and tropical vegetation. In the middle part there are some spices and bitterness. At the end, there is a caramel flavor with cream, which will become more noticeable at the end of smoking. Also at the end, the cigar will surprise you with its coffee flavor, which contributes to a pleasant aftertaste.
