Cigars

Cigars are tightly-rolled bundles of dried and fermented tobacco leaves, designed to be smoked. They are produced in a variety of sizes and shapes. Since the 20th century, cigars have been associated with leisure and luxury, though their use dates back to the indigenous peoples of the Americas. The manufacturing of cigars varies significantly, including the tobacco blend, the fermentation process, and the wrapping technique, which all contribute to the cigar's flavor and quality.

History

The use of the cigar dates back to the indigenous peoples of the Caribbean and the rest of the Americas. The earliest known form of smoking written about by Christopher Columbus and his men was the smoking of rolled tobacco leaves in the indigenous cultures they encountered. The Spanish and Portuguese, upon returning to Europe, brought back with them this new form of tobacco use, which quickly spread across Europe and the rest of the world.

Manufacturing Process

The manufacturing of cigars involves several steps: harvesting, curing, fermenting, and aging. After the tobacco plants are harvested, the leaves are cured in a controlled environment to develop the tobacco's flavor. The cured leaves are then fermented to break down sugars and other compounds, a process that further enhances the flavor. Finally, the leaves are aged to allow the flavors to meld and mature.

Wrapper, Binder, and Filler

Cigars are composed of three types of tobacco leaves, each serving a specific purpose:

• The wrapper is the outermost layer, chosen for its aesthetic appeal and flavor.
• The binder holds the filler in place and contributes to the cigar's burning characteristics.
• The filler consists of tobacco leaves that make up the bulk of the cigar, determining much of the cigar's flavor and strength.

Types of Cigars

Cigars are categorized by their size and shape, which can affect their flavor and smoking time. Common types include:

• Parejos, which are straight-sided cigars, including the Corona and Robusto.
• Figurados, which are irregularly shaped cigars, such as Torpedos and Pyramids.

Health Risks

Smoking cigars, like other forms of tobacco use, poses significant health risks. Cigars contain nicotine, a highly addictive substance, and can lead to a variety of health issues, including cancer, heart disease, and respiratory diseases. Despite the perception that cigars are a safer alternative to cigarettes, they carry similar, if not greater, health risks due to the higher levels of toxins and carcinogens in cigar smoke.

Cigar Culture

Cigar smoking has developed a culture of its own, with aficionados appreciating the craftsmanship and tradition behind cigar manufacturing. Cigar clubs and lounges have become popular, where individuals can enjoy cigars in a social setting. The ritual of cutting, lighting, and smoking a cigar is considered by many as a way to relax and enjoy the finer things in life.

Regulation and Taxation

The production, sale, and consumption of cigars are subject to regulation and taxation by governments around the world. These regulations often include age restrictions, health warnings, and smoking bans in public places. Taxes on cigars can significantly affect their price, with some countries imposing higher taxes to discourage tobacco use.

See Also

• Tobacco smoking
• Cigarette
• Pipe smoking
• Health effects of tobacco