Corojo

Kenbano tobacco leaf

Corojo is a type of tobacco originally grown in the Vuelta Abajo region of Cuba. It is known for its use as a wrapper leaf in the production of premium cigars. The Corojo tobacco plant was developed in the 1930s by Diego Rodriguez at his farm, Santa Ines del Corojo, from which the tobacco gets its name.

History

The Corojo tobacco plant was specifically bred to produce a high-quality wrapper leaf that was both flavorful and aesthetically pleasing. It quickly became a favorite among cigar manufacturers and was widely used in the production of Cuban cigars. However, due to its susceptibility to various diseases, including blue mold and black shank, the original Corojo seed became less viable for large-scale cultivation over time.

Cultivation

Corojo tobacco requires specific growing conditions to thrive, including a warm climate and rich, well-drained soil. The plant is typically grown under shade to protect the delicate leaves from direct sunlight, which can cause blemishes and reduce the quality of the wrapper.

Hybrid Varieties

Due to the original Corojo's vulnerability to disease, several hybrid varieties have been developed to maintain the desirable characteristics of the original while improving disease resistance. These hybrids include Corojo 99 and Corojo 2006, which are grown in various regions outside of Cuba, including Honduras, Nicaragua, and the Dominican Republic.

Characteristics

Corojo tobacco is known for its rich, spicy flavor profile, which includes notes of pepper, earth, and leather. The leaves are typically dark brown and oily, making them ideal for use as wrapper leaves in premium cigars. The unique flavor and appearance of Corojo tobacco have made it a popular choice among cigar aficionados.

Modern Use

Today, Corojo tobacco is used by many premium cigar manufacturers around the world. While the original Cuban Corojo is no longer widely cultivated, the hybrid varieties continue to be highly regarded in the cigar industry. Brands such as Camacho Cigars and Alec Bradley are known for their use of Corojo tobacco in their products.

See Also

• Cigar
• Wrapper (cigar)
• Tobacco
• Vuelta Abajo
• Camacho Cigars
• Alec Bradley