The curing process used for Cigar tobaccos (Dark Air-Cured) and also for Burley tobaccos. After being harvested, cigar leaves are hung in pairs in Curing Barns/Casas de Tabaco for approximately 50 days. During air curing, leaves lose their Chlorophyll and 85% of their humidity. See Stalk-Curing for advanced learning.
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Añejamiento
Simply put, this is the aging process; the very slow process of natural decomposition and chemical changes which occur at lower humidity and temperature levels than Fermentation. During Añejamiento, tobaccos slowly release ammonia, impurities, and develop.
Tobacco Añejamiento is for leaves and occurs after Fermentation; often this process goes on for years.
Cigar Añejamiento occurs after the cigars are rolled, while they are curated by your Tobacconist, in your personal humidor, all they way up until they are smoked.
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Betun
A concoction of water and tobacco residues used to wet down the tobacco before fermentation.
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Binder
The dense, strong leaf that is applied to the outside of the filler tobaccos. The Binder protects and forms the filler tobaccos in the molds and presses.
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Bundle
The method of packaging cigars without a box, usually in packs of 25 or 50. Bundles are typically more economical cigars, and often do not have bands. Typically, cigar makers release their "seconds" in Bundles.
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Box Press
Technique which squares off the sides of a traditional "cylinder" shaped cigar. The Cuban Box Press is a by-product of the tight box helping to shape very humid cigars into a square.
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Bunch
The Filler tobaccos that are rolled up with the Binder leaf. Wrapper leaves are applied to the Bunch after the pressing.
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Burros
In the context of the 2 Stage Fermentation model that TU teaches, Burros are the 4 to 6 foot tall piles of tobacco which constitute the most intense Fermentation period. Unraveling and re-piling occurs at critical temperature points so the tobacco will not "burn out". In other countries, the term Burro can refer to any Fermentation pile.
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Canoe (ing)
The uneven, one-sided burn of a cigar. This is caused by sub-standard rolling, improperly placed filler, uneven humidity, or poorly fermented raw materials.
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Cap
The circular piece of Wrapper leaf that finishes the head of a cigar.
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Capa
Spanish word for cigar Wrapper leaf.
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Capote
Spanish word for cigar Binder leaf. Also refers to section of Criollo plant used for Fillers and Binders.
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Casa de Tabaco
Cuban term for Curing Barn which has open sides facing East and West for optimal air circulation. Tobacco is placed high up in the Casa de Tabaco after picking/priming to dry out and lose its Chlorophyll.
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Casquillo
The cylindrical instrument used to cut the round tobacco leaf that is the cigar Cap.
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Cepo
Instrument used to measure the proper ring gauge of a finished cigar. This is usually a piece of wood with the appropriate size whole cut into it: the cigar is passed through to confirm it is the proper diameter.
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Chaveta
Flat metal tool shaped like a half moon, and used to cut tobacco leaves by Torcedores while rolling.
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Chisel
Figurado cigar with a round foot and a flattened head.
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Chromolithography
The use of more than one color and stone (up to 25) in Lithography.
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Cigar
A cylinder of tobacco leaves rolled together; beginning in the center with filler tobaccos, bound with a binder tobacco leaf, and sheathed with a wrapper tobacco leaf. A Premium Cigar is made from only long leaf tobacco and is made by hand. *The only exception might be "premium" cigars which are machine bunched, but hand wrapped.
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Cigarette
Finely shredded tobacco which is wrapped in paper, smoked, and inhaled for consumption. More importantly, the difference between cigars/pipe tobaccos and cigarettes is varietal, chemical, agricultural, processing, and usage - which impacts frequency of use. Limiting the definition of cigarettes to 'paper' and size descriptions fails to recognize the most fundamental scientific facts.
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Cigarillo
A small cigar, composed of Short Filler tobacco, and made by machine. Cigarillos are often Dry Cured, in the European tradition. Cigarillos are not Premium Cigars since they are not made from Long Filler or by hand.
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Color [Wrapper Leaf]
General Cuban classifications of Wrapper colors from lightest to darkest: Clarissimo, Double Claro, Claro, Colorado Claro, Colorado, Colorado Maduro, Maduro, Oscuro.
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Condensation Irrigation
Unique moisture produced [in the form of dew] in valleys during early morning hours and at night.
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Corojo
Cuban tobacco plant (seed varietal) grown under cheesecloth [to redirect harsh sunlight] and used for cigar Wrappers. From top to bottom leaf classifications: Coronas, Centro Gordo, Centro Fino, Centro Ligero, Uno Y Medio, and Libre de Pie.
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Corona
The top leaves of the Corojo plant. Also a term used in the cigar world to describe the approximate cigar size of 5 1/4" x 44rg.
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Cosecha
Spanish term for Harvesting.
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Criollo
Cuban tobacco plant (seed varietal) grown under direct sunlight and used for Fillers and Binder. Produces 6 to 7 pairs of leaves: Ligero, Seco, Volado, (all fillers) and Capotes (Binders).
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Cubatabaco
Cuban empresa (organization) in charge of tobacco agriculture, processing, and production; from the 1960s to the mid 1990s.
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Cujes
Long wooden lathes used to hold up pairs of tobacco leaves during the Air Curing in the Casas de Tabaco.
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Culebra
Spanish word for "Snake" which describes the braiding of three loosely filled, thin cigars which are held together by string. The practice of braiding cigars together came out of Cuba when factory owners needed a way to control the rollers%u2019 cigar smoking. Culebras were distributed as the day's ration of cigars. As the rollers smoked the Culebras, the squirmy look of the cigar signaled the factory managers that the rollers were not smoking the premium inventory.
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Curing
While Curing dries out the raw tobacco, it is more accurately described as the process of altering the chemical and organic properties of the leaves: converting starch to sugar, oxidizing sugar, losing chlorophyll, moisture etc... Freshly picked Tobacco leaves contain as much as 85% of their weight in moisture. When the moisture is removed, the chemical and organic changes are halted. Different Curing methods are used for different types of raw tobacco: Air, Fire, Flue, Sun. See Dry Cured Cigars for information on the Curing of finished cigars.
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Dehumidification
After the 2nd Fermentation, the Filler and Binder Gavillas are laid on racks in climate controlled Dehumidification rooms for several days to let the leaf recuperate and dry out. Dehumidification also occurs after the cigars have been rolled and placed in Marrying rooms.
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Draw
The term used to describe how easily a cigar allows air to pass through it.
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Enbetunando
The wetting down of tobacco with a mixture of water and tobacco residues. This Mojo helps accelerate the fermentation process.
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Entubado Bunching (Entubar)
A technical rolling format which involves rolling each Filler leaf into itself, almost like a small scroll. Each individually "scrolled" leaf is then placed together to form the bunch. This skillful rolling technique creates a more firmly packed and balanced cigar which provides an excellent draw. Entubado Rolling is the most difficult and complex bunching method and is therefore rarely employed in large scale manufacturing.
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Escogida
Cuban term for "the selection". In Cuban farming villages, the Escogida is a ritual and festival held while the tobacco leaf crop is graded and selected by factory representatives. Escogida can also refer to the color classification system for leaves and the room where this occurs.
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Evaporation Humidification
This type of Humidifier works because of the evaporative qualities of water. Typically the surface area of the Humidifier is in proportion to the size of the box and water is released at a rate which creates 70 to 73% humidity.
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Fabrica
Cuban term for cigar factory.
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Fermentation
Also known as "Sweating" or "Trabajando", it is the natural, vigorous, highly controlled process that accounts for the majority of taste + aroma development and distinction in cigar tobaccos. Fermentation occurs when moisture, heat, oxygen, and pressure levels reach a critical synergy: the result is an expulsion of ammonia and other unpalatable organic components of the leaf. The temperatures in Fermentation piles are closely monitored: the piles are deconstructed and re-configured before they get too hot. Tobacco can easily be depleted of taste + aroma characteristics if over Fermented. Under Fermented tobacco will be noxious, unrefined, and "green" (an industry term with no relation to the leaf color).
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Figurado
Any cigar which is not a consistent cylindrical shape. For example: Torpedo, Pyramid, Perfecto.
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Filler
The combination of distinct tobacco leaves which constitute the "guts" of the cigar. Filler must be expertly bunched to make a well constructed cigar that will draw and burn in balance. The Cuban term for Filler is Tripa.
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Finca
Spanish word for a farm.
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Foot
The typically flat and open end of a cigar that gets lit.
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Fumo
The traditional Cuban term for a cigar with an unfinished, shaggy foot and a twisted Head/Cap.
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Gavilla
Also known as a "Hand", these are bunches of tobacco leaves held together by string, which help organize the tobacco for fermentation and añejamiento.
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Goma
The Spanish word for Gum, also known as Vegetable Gum. This natural adhesive is used to seal the cigar leaves and the Wrapper at the head.
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Guillotina
The cutting instrument used by the Torcedore to trim the foot of the cigar after it has been rolled.
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Guillotine
A cigar cutter with a straight blade, locked in a frame, that cuts off a thin slice of the closed cigar Head. Single guillotines, along with double guillotines and scissors, produce a straight cut.
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Habanos S.A.
The joint venture between the Cuban government (and Cubatabaco) and the European firm Altadis. Habanos S.A. controls the worldwide distribution and marketing of Cuban cigars. In addition, Habanos S.A. owns the trademarks for all Cuban cigar brands outside of the U.S.
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Harvesting
The Herculean task of hand picking tobacco leaves from the plant (also see Priming).
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Havana
In addition to being the capital of Cuba, the term 'Havana' refers to a cigar rolled in Cuba exclusively from Cuban tobacco leaves.
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Head
The cap and shoulder of a cigar; the end of a cigar which touches the mouth.
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Humidifier
An apparatus which creates and maintains the 65% to 73% Relative Humidity needed to keep cigars optimally conditioned. [Note: it is important to use distilled water or the closest alternative in Humidifiers. Minerals and other contaminants can clog the hygroscopic medium and/or taint cigars.]
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Humidor
Any container intended to store cigars at the appropriate humidity. Usually a sealed box (or other container) which can maintain a constant 70% Relative Humidity.
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Hygrometer
An instrument used to measure Humidity. Analog models need immediate (after purchase) calibration while most digital Hygrometers come factory calibrated.
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Hygroscopic
This term refers to a substance's qualities to readily absorb and retain humidity. Cigars and tobacco are Hygroscopic by nature, and require proper humidity to live and thrive properly.
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Leaf
The part of the tobacco plant which is meant to be smoked.
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Ligero
One of the 3 basic types of filler leaves of the Criollo plant: Seco, Volado, Ligero. Ligero leaves are from the top of the plant and are exposed to the most sun. Ligero leaves are known for being dense, rich, and robust.
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Lithography
The process of carving an image onto a flat stone and using a crayon or ink to replicate that image (in reverse) onto paper. See the Marketing of Cigars.
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Maduro
In its most limited sense, the term maduro can simply refer to a dark or black wrapper color - these color wrappers can result from late primings or stalk-cutting broadleaf tobaccos. But, a true maduro will have a wrapper which has undergone longer and/or more intense (higher temperature) fermentation that produces a richer, earthier, and sweeter flavor.
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Magnesium
Soil element which affects ash density; too much produces ash flaking.
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Marrying Room
The room where cigars [in bundles of 50] are stored in cedar cabinets after rolling. The room and cabinets allow the cigars to lose some of their excessive humidity and reach a balanced state. This process is necessary because cigar tobacco is "overly" moist during rolling.
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Maturation
The point in time when tobacco leaves are ready for Priming. At Maturation, tobacco leaves lay horizontally, the center vein has a yellowish color, and they cut away freely.
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Mojo
The thorough wetting of Gavillas/tobacco leaves.
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Molds
Wood (or plastic) forms which give the binder and filler their cigar-like shape. Cigar Molds are filled with Bunches and then placed in a Press for approximately 45 minutes and then rotated by 1/3rd, several times, to eliminate any seam. The Bunches can also be left in the Mold and Press overnight if convenient, but the result will be the same.
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Nitrogen
Soil component which increases root growth, nicotine content, plant yield, leaf width, and leaf luster.
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Nutrient Erosion
Aspect of valley topography which allows nutrients to flow from surrounding hills and mountains [over time] into the valley.
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Organoleptic
Being, affecting, or relating to qualities such as taste, odor, color, and the "feel" of a substance that stimulates the senses.
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Oscuro
The blackest shade of tobacco leaf; but not necessarily a Maduro. Typically Mexican and Brazilian leaves can achieve this color without going through the additional "Maduro" fermentation.
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Belicoso
Traditionally this cigar shape was a small Pyramid between 5 to 5 1/2 inches long. Today the size can refer to cigars with with a rounded and tapered/pointed head.
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Pilone
In the context of the 2 stage fermentation model that TU teaches, Pilones are the 1 to 3 foot tall piles of tobacco which constitute the initial Fermentation. Today, in countries like Honduras and The Dominican Republic, the term Pilone can refer to any Fermentation pile.
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Plug
The effect of poor craftsmanship or inferior raw materials that inhibits the draw of a cigar.
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Potassium
Soil element which has an important relationship to the burn rate of tobacco.
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Premium Cigar
Cigars which are made from only natural long leaf tobacco and are crafted by hand. This excludes short-filler cigars and cigars made with homogenized or re-constituted tobaccos.
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Press (Cigar)
The apparatus which exerts pressure on cigar Molds, to compress the tobacco into a cylindrical shape.
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Priming (Primed)
The term used for Harvesting premium tobacco leaves 2 or 3 at a time, approximately once a week. The process starts at the bottom of the plant and continues upward. Priming allows the leaves at the top to get more sun and reach optimal Maturation before being picked: the higher the Priming, the stronger the tobacco.
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Puro
Describes a cigar in which all the tobacco comes from the same country. Puro can also be a generic term used to describe any cigar.
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Pyramid
(or Piramide) A cigar which is tapered to a point at the Head and blossoms toward the cylindrical Foot.
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Relative Humidity
The measure of Humidity expressed as a percentage of the moisture content (water vapor) in the air. Ideal humidity for the long term preservation of cigars is 70% RH.
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Reverse Osmosis Humidification
These humidifiers use the proper proportions of Propylene Glycol (or other similar chemicals) and water to create the desired humidity. Propylene Glycol acts as a buffer in the humidifier so that water is not released too quickly or slowly.
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Ring Gauge
The diameter of the cigar as measured in 64ths of an inch in North America; millimeters are typically used in Cuba, Europe, and Asia. Download - Ring Gauge Chart.
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Seco
Filler tobacco leaves from the center of the Criollo plant. For other varietals, Seco can refer to the lower primings. Seco leaves are valued for their moderate flavor and good burning qualities; they are not as thick as Ligero or as light as Volado.
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Semilleros
Nurseries where seeds germinate for approximately 45 days before being transplanted to the fields.
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Shade-Grown
This refers to tobacco (typically Wrappers) grown under cheesecloth (Tapados) to minimize the harsh rays of the sun. Shade Grown tobaccos have a more uniform appearance, and a more subtle and delicate flavor; they are also a little thinner and more elastic than Sun-Grown leaves.
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Shoulder
The rounded curve that transitions to the Head of a cigar. After properly cutting the Head of a cigar, some shoulder should remain to keep the cigar from unraveling.
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Stemming
Wrappers have the entire stem removed, yielding two separate parts of the leaf to wrap cigars. Filler leaves have only half of the stem removed from the bottom (creating a "Pata de Rana" or "Frogs Legs" shape).
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Tabaquero
Spanish term which refers to a cigar roller, cigar dealer, or someone in the cigar business.
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Tercios
Palm bark bundles used to package fine tobacco wrappers for aging. The bark is wet down and tightly molded around tobacco piles. It is then tied shut and becomes hard like plastic when it dries out.
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Tobacconist
An expert dealer in Tobacco and the related accoutrements. See Tobacconist University Certification sections to see consumer and professional elaborations.
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Topping
The term which describes flowers being cut off tobacco plants. This process allows the plant's resources to focus on leaf production.
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Torcedor
Spanish word for cigar roller.
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Torpedo
This term traditionally refers to a cigar which is tapered a both the Head and Foot.
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Trabajar / Trabajando
Spanish term which means "to work". Cigar makers refer to Fermentation as "Working" or "Trabajando" the tobacco.
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Tripa
Spanish/Cuban term for cigar filler tobaccos, literally meaning "guts".
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Vega
The specific plot of land on a farm where tobacco growing takes place.
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Vitola
This is a general term which refers to the specific size and shape characteristics of each cigar within a given brand. Download - American Vitolas & Cuban Vitolas de Galera.
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Volado
Filler tobacco leaves from the bottom of the Criollo plant. Volado is valued for its mildness and easy burning qualities.
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Wrapper
The most delicate, expensive and [ideally] perfect leaf that is applied to the outside of a cigar. In addition, wrapper leaves contribute significantly to the flavor of the cigar since they are touching the mouth and tongue.
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Tobacco Beetle
Technically known as Lasioderma Serricorne, and also referred to as Cigar and Cigarette Beetles, these pests begin as microscopic eggs found in food and tobacco. Under proper conditions, these eggs can develop into larva, pupa, and finally adult beetles. During their short lifetime, Tobacco Beetles can eat through your cigars and leave them ruined, strewn with holes like Swiss cheese. Go to Tobacco Beetle FAQ.
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Pipe
A device used for smoking, usually consisting of a tube connecting a mouthpiece to a bowl.
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Char
The partially scorched, pre-ash remnants of tobacco.
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Burl
A hardened wood growth found on trees. Burl, or Birds Eye, can also refer to the tight, circular grain pattern that is seen on the wood that comes from Burls on trees.
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Flame Grain
A grain pattern found on Smooth Finish Briar pipes, that has narrowing or widening streaks that mimic a flame.
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Spot Carved (Finish/Pipe)
Spot Carving normally refers to a hand-carved decorative accent on a Pipe, but it is usually employed to cover up a flaw in the Briar.
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Amber [Pipe Stem]
Made from fossilized tree sap, Amber Stems are beautiful, yet fragile. They are hard and may feel like glass on the teeth. Amber is commonly found on Meerschaum and some higher end Briar Pipes.
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Sandblast [Finish]
A Briar Pipe finishing technique which utilizes compressed air and sand (or other) particulate to remove excess wood from the Pipe. The result is a textured and rustic finish. Learn More - CMT Contribution
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Smooth [Finish]
Exactly what it sounds like, a Briar Pipe with a Smooth Finish has been sanded and polished to reveal the Grain as much as possible. Smooth Briars can be naturally treated or dyed with stain to achieve a variety of shades and colors.
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CCT
Certified Consumer Tobacconist, as defined and accredited by Tobacconist University. Download - CCT Application.
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CRT
Certified Retail Tobacconist, as defined and accredited by Tobacconist University. CRT is also the Professional Designation for Certified Retail Tobacconists. Download - CRT Brief.
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CST
Certified Salesforce Tobacconist, as defined and accredited by Tobacconist University. CST is also the Professional Designation for Certified Salesforce Tobacconists.
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CMT
Certified Master Tobacconist, as defined and accredited by Tobacconist University. CMT is also the Professional Designation for Certified Master Tobacconists. Download - CMT Application.
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Pit
Also known as "Sand Pit", this feature is a concave depression in the Briar: a natural imperfection. Pits are found on all Briar, so even extraordinary Pipes may have a Pit or two. If the Pit is not too large, the Pipe maker may leave it exposed and not fill it in. Usually only extreme scrutiny will reveal these minor blemishes to the human eye, yet fastidious Pipe collectors are forever in search of the perfect, Pit-less Briar.
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Carbonization
This is the process by which Char changes to Carbon and forms Cake on the inside of the tobacco bowl chamber. This Carbonized [Cake] material helps protect the Briar from the inside out, keeps the bowl cool, and promotes an even smoking experience.
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Freehand
Also known as Sculpted, Freestyle, or Carved Pipes, a Freehand is not a basic or classic shape. Freehand Pipes are shaped by hand to elicit the best features of the Briar and Grain.
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Pre-Carbonized (Pipe)
A finish applied to the Briar Bowl Chamber which intends to mimic the effects of Carbonization.
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Ebouchon
The Briar Burl, in its most raw post-harvest state. Ebouchons are purchased by Pipe makers, dried and stored until they are ready to begin carving the Pipe from it.
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Meerschaum
German for "Sea Foam", Meerschaum is a light, white, clay-like mineral that is primarily found in Turkey. Meerschaum has become synonymous for the Pipes that are created from it.
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Alkaline
Having the properties of an Alkali, or having a pH greater than 7. An Alkaline flavor is bitter and/or dry and astringent. Cigar and Pipe tobaccos are highly Alkaline, they have high ammonia content, so they are not inhaled. See pH Balance academic content.
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Acidic
Having the properties of an Acid, or having a pH less than 7. Acidic flavor is sour and pungent. Cigarette tobaccos are Acidic, so they can be inhaled easily, unlike Cigars and Pipe tobaccos. See pH Balance academic content.
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Straight Grain
A grain pattern found on Smooth Finish Briar pipes with straight line-like markings.
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Burl Grain
A grain pattern found on Smooth Finish Briar pipes, that has tight, swirling patterns: also referred to as Birds Eye.
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Lucite (Pipe Stem)
Lucite is a tradename for a type of hard and durable plastic polymer commonly used for Pipe Stems. They retain their finish over long periods and can be easily polished, yet they can be hard on the teeth.
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Vulcanite [Pipe Stem]
A hard "vulcanized" rubber that is widely used for Pipe Stems. Vulcanite is easier on the teeth than other Stem varietals, but it will tend to tarnish or oxidize more than most.
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Carved [Finish]
A Carved Finish is sculpted or shaped by hand. See Freehand definition for Carved Pipe.
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Bruyere
French word for Briar. See Briar definition.
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Shank (Pipe)
The Shank of a Pipe is typically part of the Bowl, having been carved from the same Ebouchon or block of Meerschaum. The Shank contains the air hole and connects the Bowl to the Stem. "
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Stem (Pipe)
Also referred to as mouthpiece or bit, the Stem of a Pipe incorporates the Lip, Bit, air hole, and Tenon, which connects to the Briar at the Shank.
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Chamber
A Chamber is the inside part of the bowl where the tobacco is placed for smoking. Depending on the Pipe, Chambers vary in size, depth, and finish.
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Hookah
Also known Narghile, Narghila, Nargile, Nargila, Sheesha, Shisha, Water-Pipe, or Hubbly-Bubbly. The Hookah Pipe is an indirect smoking system because the smoke passes through water, or other liquid, before reaching the smoker's palate. The four main parts of a Hookah are Bowl, Stem, Body, and Mouthpiece.
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Shisha
Also known as Sheesha, it is the tobacco used for Hookah smoking. Shisha is typically pre-moistened with water, honey, and/or molasses and flavored with fruit and/or spices. Shisha is too moist to smoke with a simple flame, so it must be kept lit by placing a hot coal on top of it.
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Knocker (Pipe)
Typically made from Cork, this device sits in an ashtray and helps pipe smokers empty their bowl by "knocking" the pipe rim against it.
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Trick Pipe
This name refers to uncommon or non-traditional pipes that have some novel or useful feature. They include folding pipes, pipes with hidden tampers, etc...
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Cake (Pipe)
The Carbon that develops along the inner wall of the Pipe Chamber and acts as protection and insulation for the Bowl; as well as promoting an even smoking experience. Approximately 1/16" of cake is considered ideal for a Pipe.
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Casing
Liquid flavoring that is added to Pipe Tobaccos (usually Aromatic). Flavorings can include Honey, Liqueurs, Extracts, etc... Learn More - CMT Contribution.
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Flake Cut
Pipe Tobacco which has been Pressed into blocks and then sliced into thin, broad, flat flakes: should be Rubbed Out for smoking.
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Shag Cut
Tobacco which is finely cut/shredded into long threads: thinner and longer than Ribbon Cut. Virginia Tobaccos lend themselves to this Cut because of their large size. This Cut is common for natural RYO cigarette tobaccos as well.
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Navy Cut
Also known as Navy Plug, it was given the name because sailors would fill a long canvas tube with tobacco and flavorings (rum, fruits, spices), then twist the tube tight: mimicking the Pressing process. This technique created a dense "rope" of tobacco about an inch thick. When a piece of the tobacco is sliced/cut off it is called a Plug: this must be Rubbed Out for smoking purposes.
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Rubbing Out
The process of breaking up a dense tobacco in the palm of the hand. Place tobacco in one palm and apply gentle pressure to the tobacco with the other palm while moving your hands in small circular motions: this will loosen and break up the tobacco just enough to prepare it for smoking. Typically necessary with Flake and Plug tobaccos.
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Plug (Cut)
The slice of tobacco that is cut from a dense rope-like blend. (See Navy Cut)
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R.Y.O.
The acronym for "Roll Your Own" Cigarettes. Typically these tobaccos are Shag Cut for easy rolling and smoking. See M.Y.O.
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Pinch Test (Pipe Tobacco)
Take a small clump of Pipe Tobacco between the thumb and forefinger and gently squeeze it together. If it makes a ""crackle"" sound or breaks, it is probably too dry to smoke and definitely too dry for storage/aging. If it sticks together for more than a few seconds it is too moist for smoking and probably too humid for storage/aging.
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R.T.D.A.
Retail Tobacco Dealers of America, the former name of the I.P.C.P.R.
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Calabash (Pipe)
Originally, Calabash pipes were made from African gourds. The gourds are trained by hand, while they grow, to achieve the desired pipe shape: bent into an ""S""-like form. The natural shape of the gourd, fatter at one end - like a bowling pin, provides a cool smoking instrument. Because the gourd cannot sustain extreme heat, Calabash pipes generally have a bowl insert for the tobacco to be placed in: usually ceramic, briar, or meerschaum. Today, the term "Calabash" refers to any pipe in the classic "Gourd" "S"-like shape. "
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Pressed (Tobacco)
Pipe Tobacco which is contained under pressure exerted by a machine. Pressing for hours or days can help different Tobacco flavors marry as well as create a manageable "brick" which can then be packaged, aged, and/or Flake Cut. Long Term Pressing, as done to Cavendish Tobaccos, can create Fermentation (with the proper temperature and moisture) which will dramatically change and develop the Tobacco.
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Plume
Also known as Bloom, this is a naturally occurring by-product of cigar aging. As the cigar exudes oils through the Wrapper, the oils crystalize on the outside and form a white powder-like substance. The Plume can be gently wiped off with no negative consequences.
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Blue Mold
This is an airborne fungus that can ravage an entire tobacco field/plantation in a matter of days. Also known as Peronospara Tabacina, Blue Mold flourishes in cool, cloudy, humid weather: the effects are distinguished by small round blemishes on the tobacco leaves.
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Boite Nature
The classic cedar box in which many cigars are packaged.
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Book (Bunch) Rolling
An alternative to Entubado or Accordion rolling, Booking involves laying filler leaves flatly on top of one another and then folding them up, like a book or taco, to complete the bunch. This technique is simpler than Entubado and Accordion rolling and creates a less aerated cigar structure: placing the leaves directly on top of each other does not allow as much air to pass through each individual leaf in the the cigar. The advantage of Book Rolling is that it is quicker and more efficient from a manufacturing perspective. This is probably the most popular technique for making premium cigars today.
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Bouquet
The Smell, or "Nose" of a cigar or pipe tobacco.
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Candela
Also known as Double Claro, these leaves are Flue-Cured (or heat cured) to fix the cholorphyll levels in the leaf and produce the desired Green color.
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Churchill
A large cigar, traditionally 7 x 48.
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Claro
A cigar wrapper leaf which is pale green to light brown in color. Growing the leaf under shade helps keep the color light.
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Clear Havana
Cigar made with Cuban tobacco in the United States, before the Cuban embargo.
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Cuban Seed
This term refers to seeds or varietals that originate from Cuba, but are typically grown in other countries. Since most dark tobacco/cigar varietals originate from Cuba, this is a very general term.
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Double Claro
Also known as Candela, Jade, and American Market Selection (AMS), these leaves are Flue-Cured (or heat cured) to fix the cholorphyll levels in the leaf and produce the desired Green color.
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Diademas
A cigar approximately 8 inches long which is tapered at both ends, like a large Perfecto.
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Perfecto
A cigar approximately 4 to 6 inches long which is tapered at both ends and bulbous at the center.
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Double Corona
A cigar which is larger than a Churchill: approximately 7 to 8 inches long with a ring gauge of 49 or bigger.
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American Market Selection (AMS)
This terminology refers to Claro and Double Claro colored cigars which were popular in The United States during the middle 20th Century.
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Finish
A Tasting term which describes the lingering flavors and sensations left behind on the smokers palate.
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Gum
Also known as Vegetable Gum, this natural adhesive is used to seal the cigar leaves and the Wrapper at the head.
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Habano
This term refers to a cigar rolled in Cuba exclusively from Cuban tobacco leaves.
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Hand-Rolled
A cigar made exclusively by human hands.
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Homogenized Tobacco Leaf (H.T.L.)
Originally developed by General Cigar during the 1950s, this reconstituted tobacco leaf was mixed with stems and cellulose to create a usable tobacco-like leaf. HTL is not a component of premium cigar and pipe tobaccos. HTL helped expand the machine-made cigar industry by creating cheaper alternatives.
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Long Filler
The whole leaves which are used in premium cigars: not chopped up pieces of leaf or HTL.
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Lonsdale
A long and slender cigar, usually around 6 x 42.
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Machine-Made
Refers to cigars bunched and wrapped by machine: these are not premium cigars.
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Olor
A variety of Dominican cigar tobacco which has large leaves and is commonly used for filler and binder. Olor tobacco can have a distinctly dry flavor, or drying effect on the mouth. Olor is also the Spanish term for "Smell".
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Piloto
A varietal family of filler tobacco which originated in Cuba but is now commonly cultivated in the Dominican Republic and Central America.
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Short Filler
The chopped up pieces of tobacco used as filler in non-premium cigars. Short Filler burns quicker and with far less complexity than Long Filler leaf.
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Sugar
"The naturally occurring organic compounds found, to varying degrees, in all tobacco. Both Curing and Fermentation can fix and/or develop the sugars in tobacco.
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Tapado
The cheesecloth-like material used to cover Shade-Grown tobacco, or the Spanish term for Shade-Grown tobacco.
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Sun-Grown
This term refers to tobacco grown in direct sunlight: this intense process creates thicker, more robust leaves, with more pronounced veins.
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Tooth
This term refers to the grainy texture found on some tobacco leaves; mainly Cameroon.
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Totalmente a Mano
This term means "Made Totally By Hand": hand bunched, bound, and wrapped, no machinery is used.
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Hecho a Mano
This term means "Made by Hand" but it refers to cigars that have machine bunched filler.
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Vintage
This term should refer to the year a tobacco leaf in a particular cigar or pipe tobacco is harvested. In most retail brands, the vintage (i.e. 1993) refers to a specific leaf/component like the wrapper, binder or filler(s) grown in a specific year.
In the absence of provenance or appellation-like standards in the cigar/pipe industry, there can be some ambiguity when the term vintage is used. Some cigar makers can misuse the term simply to make their cigars seem older or more attractive. Also, see Estate Vintage. Click here to learn about a true vintage cigar.
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Accordion (Bunch) Rolling
This bunching technique involves folding the outer sides of the filler leaves inward, one at a time, and placing the leaves on top of each other until the bunch is complete: then the leaves are rolled up together, with a binder, like a scroll. These ""folds"" allow more air passage through the cigar. Accordion rolling takes more skill and time to execute than Book Rolling, but is not as sophisticated as Entubado Rolling. Accordion Rolling can also be called "Arrugado", which means wrinkled in Spanish.
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Lieberman (Bunch) Rolling
This rolling technique uses the Lieberman machine to bunch and bind the tobacco filler leaves. The Lieberman machine is commonly used today in premium cigar factories throughout the world. Cigars which are bunched using the Lieberman machine usually still have the wrapper applied by hand.
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Deshijar
Similar to Pruning (see Podar), this process occurs in the fields on maturing plants when the smaller, non-viable leaves are removed to allow nutrients to flow to the larger leaves.
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Trichome
Very small, hair-like outgrowths found on plant leaves. Tobacco leaves, in addition to being very thick and sticky with resin, have Trichomes on their outer surface. The tobacco plant Trichomes help the leaf absorb moisture and reflect excessive radiation. After tobacco is rolled into a cigar, the Trichomes may still be visible and will help inhibit the evaporation of oils from the cigar's wrapper.
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Enpuño
This is the Spanish term for Bunch. Puño also means ""fist"", which is how/where the Bunch is held by the roller.
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Boquilla
Spanish term which refers to the cigar foot.
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Alkaloid
Any in a class of naturally occurring organic bases containing nitrogen. Popular Alkaloids include Nicotine, Morphine, Ephedrine, and Quinine. Thousands of Alkaloids are known to exist in thousands of plants, but they are of interest mostly because of their physiological effects on humans and animals.
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Smokerism
A belief of moral superiority over smokers, manifested as discrimination and punishment. Since the latter part of the 20th Century Smokerism has become a pervasive global social trend.
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Tabla
The wood surface used by Torcedores to roll cigars on. It is made from a very hard wood and placed on top of the rolling table as a work surface.
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Anniversary
In the world of luxury tobacco, cigars, pipes, and tobaccos which are called Anniversary commemorate a date or event, such as the makers 25th Anniversary. It does not mean that the tobaccos or products are Vintage, or inherently special for any other reason.
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Stalk-Cut
This term describes a plant which is harvested all at once by cutting the stalk, low to the ground. Unlike Primed plants, all of the leaves are harvested at one time. This technique is common with Broadleaf and San Andres Negro tobaccos, which are typically used for Maduro and Oscuro cigar Wrappers.
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San Andres Negro
The most famous Mexican cigar varietal grown in the San Andres Valley. San Andres Negro is traditionally a Stalk-Cut tobacco, which produces excellent Binder and Maduro Wrappers. Due to the toughness and resilience of the leaf, it holds up well during the extra fermentation required to produce Maduro Wrappers.
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Bright Tobacco
A term used to describe the lighter Virginia tobacco varietal.
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American Blend (Cigarette)
A mixture of Virginia, Burley, and Oriental tobaccos. The amount of each type of tobacco in the blend varies by brand, but generally consists of 50% Virginia and 37% air cured burley, while oriental is the smallest percentage of the blend at around 13%. These cigarettes are typically cased and flavored during the curing process.
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Turkish Cigarette
The term used to describe Cigarettes made primarily from Oriental tobaccos. Oriental tobaccos are lower in nicotine than Virgina tobaccos, but they convey a richer flavor.
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Sun-Curing
The process of exposing harvested leaves to direct sunlight: this takes between a few days to a few weeks. This process releases moisture and prepares the leaf for fermentation. Sun-Curing is most commonly used on Oriental tobaccos.
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Triple Cap
The term given to the [Parejo] cigar head finishing technique traditionally used in Cuba. The Triple-Cap uses a small tear-drop shaped piece of tobacco which is woven into the wrapper and used to close the open Head. After the head is closed, a perfect circle of tobacco (Cap) is cut with the Casquillo and placed on top to create a finished look. While this technique is meticulous and time consuming, it produces a strong, reinforced head. It is called the Triple-Cap because the cigar Head appears to have several seams.
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Parejo
This term refers to straight-sided cigars; also known as standard or straight, not Figurado.
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Flag
During cigar wrapping, a small piece of the leaf is expertly trimmed to help close the Head.
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Spill
Cedar Strips used for lighting cigars. These can be procured from the Spanish Cedar dividers used to seperate rows of cigars in boxes.
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I.P.C.P.R.
Currently known as the Premium Cigar Association (PCA), IPCPR stands for International Premium Cigar and Pipe Retailers association. Founded in 1932 as the R.T.D.A., this is the premier organization for retail Tobacconists.
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Cedro
The Spanish word for Spanish Cedar (see Cedar, Spanish).
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Spanish Cedar
See Cedar, Spanish.
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Humidistat
A device used to regulate humidity through a humidifier.
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Active Humidifier
An Active Humidifier is a machine designed to create humidity. Active Humidifiers generally have a fan blowing on [or over] water to produce a mist that is absorbed into the air. Active Humidifiers are common in walk-in humidors and large cabinets.
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Amarillo
Spanish for "yellow" refers to this color classification of shade grown wrapper leaf.
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Amatista Jar
A hermetically sealed jar containing 50 (or occasionally 25) cigars.
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Ammonia
An alkaline compound that exists naturally in the tobacco leaf. Much of the ammonia is expelled as a gas during the fermentation process.
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Apple (Pipe)
A pipe with a round shaped bowl reminiscent of an apple.
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Aromatic (Pipe Tobacco)
Blended Virginia and Burley tobaccos which have flavorings, or "casing" added as part of the manufacturing/blending process. Some common casings are chocolate, vanilla, cherry, rum, etc. Aromatics are typically mild and have a sweeter taste+aroma.
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Artisan
A skilled worker who practices a trade or handicraft, often using traditional methods.
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Billiard (Pipe)
A pipe shape with a slightly rounded bowl and straight stem.
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Blend
The combination of different types of tobacco used to create a specific character and taste. In a cigar, this includes the filler, binder, and wrapper leaves from different parts of the plant, different plants, and different regions. For pipe tobaccos, see Aromatic and English Blend definitions, or the Pipe Tobacco Blending section of Tobacco College. Ultimately, blending is a big part of the art of making great luxury tobacco products.
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Bloom
Synonym for Plume.
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Body
1) The middle part of the cigar, also referred to as the barrel.
2) The breadth and depth (spectrum) of flavor of a tobacco. Body is also referred to as richness and fullness and is perceived as mouthfeel. Body should not be confused with the tobacco's strength or spice.
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Flavor
The combination of taste and aroma.
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Taste
1) a: noun. The human sense that perceives and distinguishes salty, sweet, sour, bitter, and umami flavors. b: An individual preference or inclination. 2) verb. The act of perceiving and experiencing the flavor (taste+aroma) of something.
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Bowl (Pipe)
The hollowed out part of a pipe that holds tobacco.
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Bulldog
A pipe that has an indentation carved into the circumference towards the top of the bowl. Bulldog pipes usually have a diamond-shaped stem.
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Second (Cigars)
Cigars that have not met the aesthetic or construction standards of the manufacturer and are sold unbanded and without boxes.
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Burley
Light, air-cured tobacco that has a rich, nutty taste. Its slow, even burning qualities make it popular with pipe smokers.
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Caballeria
Unit of area used to measure land in Cuba, equivalent to 33.2 acres.
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Viso
A general term used to describe tobacco leaves from the middle part of cigar tobacco plants. Viso leave are under Ligero and above Seco leaves.
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Cameroon
Common name for tobacco grown in Central Africa, these plants are descended from Sumatran seed. Known for their rich flavors and aromas, they are often used as wrapper leaves.
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Catador
Spanish for "taster" Catadores ensure quality control by tasting batches of finished cigars.
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Cheroot
One of the oldest known cigar shapes from the Tamil "curuttu" literally meaning "roll". This term usually refers to a mild and inexpensive cigar that tapers gradually from foot to head and is cut at both ends. Also referred to as a "stogie".
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Churchwarden (Pipe)
A pipe shape with a long curved stem also known as a "Yard of Clay." Churchwardens were originally made of clay and were enormously popular in Europe until the introduction of the Briar Pipe. Churchwardens tend to produce a cooler smoke due to the length the smoke has to travel from bowl to mouthpiece.
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Cut Filler
See Short Filler.
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Ebonite
A brand name for a hard rubber originally developed to mimic ebony wood used to make pipe stems.
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Latakia
An Oriental Tobacco which is sun-cured then fire-cured with aromatic woods and fragrant herbs to impart a smokey quality. Too strong and spicy to be smoked alone Latakia tobacco enhances and distinguishes other blends.
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Libre de Pie
Spanish term for the two leaves at the base of the corojo plant literally "free feet".
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Ligador
Spanish term for the master blender in a cigar factory.
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Random Grain
A Grain pattern that is not uniform: this may include a combination of Straight Flame Burl/Birds Eye and/or even bald spots where no distinguished pattern is present.
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Grain Disruption
A change in Grain from Straight/Flame/Burl or No Grain (Bald Spot) to another pattern. Grain Disruptions are common on many extraordinary pipes but a Briar Pipe with only one Grain Pattern and no Disruption is truly rare and spectacular.
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Fill (Pipe)
Pits or imperfections in Briar can be "Filled" in with wood putty or using comparable techniques. Typically a Fill is visible to the human eye because it will not look like the surrounding Briar. While Fills are common on many Pipes A High Grade Briar Pipe should be rejected or downgraded if Fill is used.
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Bit
The part of the Stem that the lips and teeth rest upon; just below the Lip.
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Tubo
Spanish word for "tube". Tubos are used for packaging to help protect cigars.
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Desbotonar
Another form of Pruning this is the process of removing flower buds (before they bloom) from the tobacco plants. This occurs at least one week before harvesting begins: it keeps pollination from occurring and keeps the plants from expending energy and resources on the flowers.
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Cloud-Grown
The term used to describe cigar tobacco grown in Ecuador which is naturally shaded by consistent cloud cover. The naturally diffused light diminishes vein size yields thinner leaves with a very consistent color and more subtle taste/aroma.
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Bonsack Machine
The first commercial Cigarette Injecting machine which ushered in the age of mass-produced Cigarettes. Invented by James Albert Bonsack and patented in 1880.
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Passive Humidifier
A Passive Humidifier has no electrical or moving parts and works on simple evaporative and chemical equilibrium principles. They are intended for smaller humidification needs and commonly used in travel and desktop humidors.
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Capadura
Spanish term for the second growth plant/leaves. After the plant has been harvest/primed the stalk is trimmed down and the leaves are allowed to re-grow. This process was common in Cuba where the farmers would allow the plant/leaves to re-grow and they would use those leaves for their own consumption. Capadura is especially common when growing Pelo De Oro tobacco varietals.
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Natural Cavendish
Pipe tobacco that is steamed usually with sugars or flavoring in the water and pressed for an additional curing/fermentation period. Natural Cavendish differs from Black Cavendish in that it goes through a less vigorous pressing yielding a milder flavor.
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Calumet (Pipe)
A decorated and functional pipe made by the Indians of North America also known as the "Peace Pipe".
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Corncob (Pipe)
A traditional American pipe, the corncob's bowl is made from a dried and hollowed out cob with a reed or hollowed out piece of wood inserted for the stem and mouthpiece.
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Oriental
Tobacco grown mostly in Southern Europe and the Middle East this plant has relatively small leaves and produces fragrant dry flavor profiles with low nicotine and sugar content. Oriental tobacco is typically primed sun-cured and fermented.
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Punch
A cigar cutter that consists of a small circular blade intended to pierce a round hole in the head of the cigar. Sometimes referred to as a "bullet" or "bull's eye".
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Poker (Pipe)
1. (pipe shape) A pipe with a cylindrical flat bottomed bowl. 2. (pipe tool) A slender piece of metal that is used to aerate and loosen tobacco in a pipe bowl as well as clear the pipe's airhole.
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Scraper (Pipe)
A spoon-like pipe tool used to remove excess char from the pipe chamber. Scrapers can potentially damage the Cake making Reamers the more preferred tool for this task.
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Uno y Medio
Spanish for "one and a half" the second level of leaves from the bottom of the corojo plants just above the libre de pie.
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Centro Gordo
The second level of leaves from the top of the corojo plant just below the top corona leaves.
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Centro Fino
The third level of leaves from the top of the corojo plant between the centro gordo and centro ligero leaves.
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Centro Ligero
The leaves on the third level from the bottom of the corojo plant, between the centro fino and uno y medio leaves. Not to be confused with the criollo plant, where the term Ligero refers to the top leaves which are exposed to the most sun.
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Veguero
Spanish for "plantation worker" this term can also refer to a cigar made from a single tobacco leaf or type of tobacco leaf.
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V Cutter
Also called a "wedge"" or "cat's eye" this type of cutter digs a wedge-shaped slice out of the head of the cigar.
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Retro-haling
The act of moving smoke from the back of the mouth up through the nasal cavity and exhaling through the nose. In order to retro-hale the mouth and nasal cavity can be connected by making a 'gulping' action and exhaling through the nose at the same time. Retro-haling creates a powerful synergy of taste and olfaction (aroma/smell) where the spices/notes, body, flavor (taste+smell) and intensity of the cigar will be pronounced simultaneously.
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Pot (Pipe)
A billiard shaped pipe but with a shorter bowl.
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Cellophane
A thin transparent film made from regenerated cellulose often used in the packaging of cigars - learn more.
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Handicraft
A trade requiring manual skills.
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B & M
Short hand for "Brick & Mortar" retail Tobacconists.
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BOTL
Acronym for "Brothers of the Leaf".
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TobaccAromatherapy
Term coined by TU in 1998 to describe the beneficial and therapeutic effects of pleasant tobacco aromas.
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Barrel
1) See Body. 2) The process of aging and curing tobacco leaves in barrels.
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PURO INTEGRITAS
A hybrid of Spanish Latin and double entendre Puro Integritas refers to 'Pure Integrity' and 'Cigar Integrity'. It is the Tobacconist University Motto.
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Biphasic
Having two distinct and often seemingly contradictory effects; in the case of nicotine consumption, the effects of both mental alertness and physical relaxation are biphasic.
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Nicotine
Nicotine is a naturally occurring organic compound in the same family of substances (alkaloids) as Caffeine. Found in Tobacco plants and to a lesser degree in tomatoes green peppers potatoes and eggplant the general effects of Nicotine are biphasic: initially it is mentally invigorating then has a relaxing effect. Nicotine & Tobacco Nicotine Strength.
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Apprenticeship
A period of Service and Learning an art or a trade.
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San Vicente
A varietal family which is now widely grown in the Dominican Republic. This cigar tobacco is commonly used for filler and binder. San Vicente varietals are a little lighter than Piloto and can have a mouth watering effect and be a little acidic; they are not as dry as Olor varietals.
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Large Cigars
Cigars weighing more than three pounds per one thousand cigars; as defined by the U.S. government.
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Little Cigars
Cigars weighing three pounds or less per thousand; as defined by the U.S. government.
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Vitola de Galera
Name for a cigar's shape and size as referred to in Cuban cigar factories. Download - Vitolas de Galera.
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Vitola de Salida
The name given for a cigar's particular shape and size in the marketplace.
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Capero No. 1
A newer Cuban hybrid [dark tobacco] varietal which started to be grown widely around 2007. Capero No. 1 is a cross between Habanos 2000 + Corojo '99 + Criollo '98. It produces an extra 2 to 3 leaves over other hybrids and has very large leaves. Capero No. 1 has been genetically engineered to produce no flowers and therefore no seeds: this will help Cuba maintain control over the plants genetics and where it is grown. The weakness of this hybrid is that the leaves have not held up well during fermentations.
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Picadura
1.) Spanish term meaning "short filler" or scraps of tobacco. 2.) Picadura can also refer to the small under-developed leaves that grow just under the tobacco flower and above the ligero/corona leaves. The Spanish term Pica Dura (two words) translates into "Bites Hard/Strong".
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Palate
1) Literally the roof of the mouth. 2) A personal preference of taste. 3) The sense of taste.
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Stockholm Cigar Syndrome
The psychological response in (cigar) sales representatives who fall in love with their own mediocre or bad products. The same can happen to consumers and Tobacconists who enjoy a cigar (or pipe) when they smoke it with the maker and realize later that it was not nearly as good as they remembered. Similarly, Havana-Obsessed Consumers can be biased by romance and mythology. Enhanced Content
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Encallado
The method of growing cigar tobacco where tents/cloths are erected around the perimeter of the crop, to protect it from the wind.
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Manzana
This term refers to a land measurement common in Latin America: the approximate equivalent is 1.7 acres - but it varies from country to country.
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Default Position
As in the theater every actor and prop has a 'mark' a physical location where they must be at any given time. A store should look the same at opening and closing every day. Sales customers receiving inventory and other events can disrupt the look of a store. Setting "Default Positions" a specific location for fixtures products ashtrays etc. can help maintain an orderly and coherent merchandising strategy.
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Merchandising
The physical and visual language with which our products communicate with the customer: it should be commensurate with the quality of the product and your store. Also spelled Merchandizing. Enhanced Content.
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Mold (Cigar)
Like any other type of mold Cigar Mold is a fungus which appears as a woolly growth found on damp and/or decaying organic matter - rendering the cigars un-smokeable.
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Label (Cigar)
The main decorative paper which is glued onto cigar boxes. (See Bands & Labels.)
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Leverage
The use of a tool or force to gain an advantage, including use of words, relationships, knowledge, experience, body language, humor, etc...
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Pre-Columbian
Technically this term refers to the era of history on the American continents before the arrival of Christopher Columbus. In practice Pre-Columbian history can apply to all time before and until the indigenous peoples of the Americas made contact with Europeans.
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Nicotiana rustica
One of approximately 60 species of Nicotiana. For thousands of years during the Pre-Columbian era Nicotiana rustica was popular among the indigenous peoples of North America; while Nicotiana tabacum was confined to Central and South America. Notably Nicotiana rustica contains twenty times more nicotine than Nicotiana tabacum. Use and commercial production of Nicotiana rustica is well documented into the seventeenth century while it represents a only small fraction of global tobacco production today.
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Nicotiana tabacum
The most famous of the more than 60 species of Nicotiana. Nicotiana tabacum is the largest cash crop plant on earth yet it is not found growing in the wild. Specifically Nicotiana tabacum is the plant species referred to as "Tobacco".
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Nicotiana
The Genus of plants which contains approximately 60 species of which most are found in the Americas; 14 are found in North America 9 of which were used by Native Americans in a variety of ways. Of these there were 2 species used in ways that modern aficionados would most recognize; namely Nicotiana rustica and Nicotiana tabacum.
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Cigar Rolling Table
Cigar Rolling Tables are distinguished by a partial top shelf (approx: 40" high) over the standard table top (approx: 30" high). The partial top shelf creates extra space on top for placing finished cigars while the space underneath hides the goma guillotina water leaves and other incidentals. (How to build a Cigar Rolling Table) Download - Cigar Rolling Table Plans.
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Añejador
The professional in charge of tobacco and/or cigar Añejamiento. The Añejador curates the temperature, humidity, and aging standards for tobaccos and cigars.
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Propylene Glycol (PG)
An organic chemical liquid alcohol that mixes well with water in any proportion.PG is used in Reverse Osmosis humidification systems to assist in regulating humidity levels in humidors. See Humidifiers.
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Filete
These are narrow strips of paper used to seal the edges/border of cigar boxes.
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Chinchal
Popular during the 1800s this term referred to small cigar factories in Cuba which manufactured cigars for domestic use.
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Liga
The Spanish term for the Blend. Which is the combination of different tobacco leaves and proportions to create a specific character and taste. In a cigar this includes the filler binder and wrapper leaves.
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Bulk
See Burro.
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Bofeton
This is a flap of delicate paper used to cover cigars in a box; it lays under the lid and over the cigars.
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Fortaleza
The Spanish term which can describe cigar strength and vigour. Fortaleza can also refer to the overall sensory input (robustness) from a cigar, not just strength as it relates to nicotine.
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Fuma
1.) The Spanish name given to a quality control committee which smokes/tests cigars.
2.) A Fuma can also be a short filler rustically finished cigar; this can include a twisted head and a shaggy foot.
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Guajiro
Spanish term used to describe Cuban agricultural workers and/or peasants.
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Manojo
A bundle of four Gavillas.
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Zafado
The shaking loose of Gavillas/tobacco leaves after they arrive at the factory.
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Burlap
The strong breathable material used to wrap filler and binder leaves for tobacco anejamiento.
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Yute
The Spanish term for Burlap.
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Transplanting
The re-planting of tobacco seedlings from the semillero into the ground.
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Royal Palm
Roystonea regia also known as the Cuban Royal Palm. The typical Cuban Royal Palm grows between 40-50 ft., its leaves are commonly used for roofing tobacco barns and its bark for making Tercios.
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Yagua
The Spanish term for Royal Palm.
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Olfaction
The action of smelling or the sense of smell (See Taste College: Smell.)
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Orthonasal Olfaction
Smelling odors that travel directly through the nose to the olfactory nerves; such as by wafting cigar/pipe smoke under the nose. (See Taste College: Smell.)
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Smemory
A word coined by TU to emphasize the strong connections between human olfaction/smell, memory and emotions.
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Straight Cut
The flat cut produced by Guillotine Double Guillotine and Scissor cigar cutters.
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Nub
The last 1 to 2 inches of a cigar; usually a reference to 'smoking past the band'.
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Nubbing
The act of smoking the last inch or two of a cigar; or 'smoking past the band'.
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English Blend (Pipe Tobacco)
Also referred to as 'Balkan' English Blends are composed of Oriental Virginia Latakia and Perique tobaccos.
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Quisqueyas
The Spanish word used in the Dominican Republic for casas de tabaco or air-curing barns.
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Copaneco
A variety of Nicotiana found growing wild in Honduras.
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Straight Pipe
Characterized by a straight shank and stem. Straight pipes are inclined to transmit more heat directly to the palate than Bent pipes.
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Bent Pipe
Characterized by a curved shank and stem. Bent pipes tend to collect moisture at the bottom of the bowl below the bend of the shank but they can transmit less heat to the palate than Straight pipes.
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Sunlight Manipulation
While sunlight can be manipulated with shade cloth this term refers to the effect of mountains surrounding valleys shading out part of the early and late day sun. See Geography & Climate for more information.
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Snuff
A ground up, powder-like tobacco that is inhaled or 'snuffed'. Snuffing tobacco was popularized in Europe. In America snuff can refer to dipping tobacco which is placed in the mouth between the gums and mouth wall; also see snus.
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Double Guillotine - Cigar Cutter
A cigar cutter with two straight blades, locked in a frame which makes a straight cut. A guillotine with one blade and two finger holes is a single guillotine as a double guillotine must have two blades.
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Aromatic (Ashtray) Analysis
A phrase used by TU to describe the process of dissecting a cigar to smell the aromas of the individual leaf components. First take the cigar apart gently and separate the wrapper binder and different filler leaves. The filler leaves will be distinguished by their color and texture. Then light the individual components in an ashtray one at a time and smell the aromas. Keep a bucket of water handy in case the fire/embers get out of hand.
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Sensory Thresholds
The limits at which our physiological senses recognize a sensation. In order for people to sense a substance through taste or smell it must be present in sufficient concentrations.Also see Absolute Threshold Terminal Threshold Recgonition Threshold and Differentiation Threshold.
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Terminal Threshold
The Sensory Threshold where saturation inhibits our senses from perceiving any more stimulus; like ten people smoking cigars in a room where the eleventh cigar will not change what you smell.
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Recognition Threshold
The Sensory Threshold where we are able to sense specific tastes and smells.
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Savory
The taste sensation produced by umami. The Spanish word equivalent is Sabroso. More generally savory can be something that is pleasing to the sense of taste by way of seasoning that is not characteristically sweet.
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Chemoreception
The process by which people (and other organisms) respond to chemical stimuli by using their sense of taste and smell.
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Balkan blend
See English blend pipe tobacco.
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Varietal
A specific and unique seed strain.
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Pelo de Oro
While this is a Spanish term meaning "golden hair" it is usually a reference to a potent Cuban cigar varietal which was popular in the early and middle 20th Century. This tobacco could be used for wrapper and filler as well, but is disease prone and can infest entire crops and regions so it is rarely grown today. Pelo de Oro can be considered a 'campesino' or 'guajiro' tobacco since many agricultural workers grow and smoke it to this day - especially in the central part of Cuba. It is known for being quite strong and flavorful as well as sweet. Also, see Capadura.
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Jalapa Valley
A famous cigar tobacco growing region in the North Eastern part of Nicaragua, near the Southern border of Honduras.
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Electronic Cigarette
Also known as e-cigarettes, these are electronic products which vaporize liquid nicotine and simulate the look and effects of cigarette smoking. The vapor is not smoke, but rather a water mist which momentarily resembles smoke. - Blog Article.
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Epidemiology
The branch of medical science that studies factors affecting the health and illness of populations. The statistics and results of epidemiological studies are used as the reasoning/logic for public health and public policy decision making and legislation.
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Procigar
Established in 1992, this association is composed of the Dominican Republic's most traditional and experienced cigar manufacturers. Their objective is to defend, protect, and divulge the good name of the "land of Cigar Country": preserving their heritage and maintaining the quality upon which it is built. Every year since 2008, Procigar has hosted the Procigar Festival in the Dominican Republic to host consumers and industry professionals while educating them about their products and culture. Procigar, also known as La Asociacion de Fabricantes de Cigarros de la Republica Dominicana, has a quality seal used exclusively by its members - click here to see the Procigar seal.
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Surullo
A small, cigar-like roll of tobacco leaves created from one type of leaf. Surullos are used to taste and sample individual leaf types.
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Roto
Spanish word meaning 'broken'. It is used to refer to damaged or broken wrapper leaves after they are sorted.
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ETS
Environmental Tobacco Smoke, also known as Second Hand Smoke (SHS).
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SHS
Second Hand Smoke, also known as Environmental Tobacco Smoke (ETS).
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Statistics
The collection, analysis, interpretation, and presentation of data.
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Sucker
Secondary leaves on tobacco plants that must be removed so nutrients will flow to the primary leaves. Every plant in every field has these 'sucker' leaves and they must be meticulously removed by hand.See Jorge Padrón Video.
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Havana Seed
A general classification for dark air-cured tobacco seed varietals that originated from Cuba. Havana seed varietals are grown throughout all cigar growing regions.
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Habano Seed
A traditional Cuban seed varietal family that has been hybridized and cross-bred to create many new modern varietals. Traditional Habano Seed is still used to produce many cigars throughout Central America. See Other Cigar Varietal Families.
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Estrujado Bunching
A hybrid of entubado bunching, a.k.a. 'lazy entubado'. This technique uses a base of two tobacco leaves which are folded (semi-scrolled) and the filler leaves are scrolled and placed within it. Lastly, the entire bunch is wrapped with the binder leaf. Click here to see the video of estrujado buncing on the TU YouTube channel.
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Rusticated [Finish]
A Briar Pipe can have a "Rusticated" finish, which is a deliberate roughing up of the oustide surface with a hand tool. This process produces a different look than Sandblasting . Learn More - CMT Contribution.
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Lip (Pipe)
The part of the Stem which Flares open slightly to allow the teeth a place to rest. The Lip surrounds the air hole and is located just above the Bit.
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Ribbon Cut
Pipe Tobacco cut into thin, long ribbons: shorter and thicker than Shag Cut.
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Cube Cut
Pipe Tobacco which is cut or shred into small, square-like pieces: these are easily blended and smoked. Burley Tobaccos are the most common Cube Cut.
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Reamer
A Pipe tool used to clean out excess Char from the Bowl and facilitate an even Cake. Pipe Reamers are shaped to fit inside the Chamber and spread out to apply even pressure along the interior walls. When turned they remove Char and compress the existing Cake.
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Cedar, Spanish
Also known as Cedrela odorata, Spanish Cedar is neither Spanish nor a Cedar; it is a member of the Meliaceae, or Mahogany family. It is commonly used for cigar boxes and cigar aging because it is naturally pest resistant, hygroscopic, and naturally abundant in Central America and the Caribbean.
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Carotene
A naturally occurring organic compound found in some plants. When cigar tobacco is air-cured the chlorophyll is broken down and the new yellow and orange-ish pigments from the Carotene are exposed.
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Corona Gorda
A modern favorite cigar shape measuring approximately 6 x 50.
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Oil
The result of well conditioned cigars, oils are exuded by tobacco leaves as they age.
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Vein
Part of a leaf's organic structure. Veins which are too large can hinder the viability and attractiveness of wrapper leaves.
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Fire-Curing
The curing process which uses small fires in an enclosed space to flavor tobaccos. Fire-Curing involves using aromatic woods as fuel, which imparts flavor into the tobaccos. Fire-Curing can be done after a Sun-Curing, as is the case with Latakia tobaccos.
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Anilladora
Spanish term for the worker who applies the band to the cigar.
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Black Cavendish
Pipe tobacco that is steamed, usually with sugars or flavoring in the water and pressed for an additional aging period. Black Cavendish goes through more vigorous pressing than Natural Cavendish, yielding a darker color and richer flavor.
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Boutique
This term refers to smaller cigar, pipe, and tobacco companies with limited production. In general, boutique companies are more artisan-oriented.
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Craftsman
A skilled worker who practices a trade or handicraft.
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Herf
Slang term describing the act of drawing on a cigar. "Herf" also refers to a gathering of cigar lovers, where cigars are savored and enjoyed with friends.
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Dog Rocket
A slang term for an unpalatable cigar.
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Galera
Spanish for "galley", the workroom where cigars are hand rolled.
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Half-Wheel
In Spanish, "media ruida", a bundle of 50 cigars, usually tied with a ribbon or packaged in cellophane. See also "Bundle".
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Hand
Also known as a Gavilla, this refers to the way tobacco leaves are organized by being bunched together to undergo fermentation and anejamiento.
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Hot
Describes any tobacco that is transferring heat to the palate. This can be caused by smoking too quickly, or improper (cigar) rolling or (pipe) packing. Tobacco that burns hot is not combusting at the proper rate and must be allowed to cool down, by not drawing or toking.
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Perique
A burley tobacco grown only in St. James Parish, Louisiana. Perique is air-cured, then fermented in oak barrels to produce an extremely robust tobacco with high nicotine levels. Primarily used as a condiment in pipe tobacco blends and occasionally in cigarettes.
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Piercer
Also called a lance, a cutter used to poke small holes through the head of a cigar.
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Tamp
The act of gently packing down the burning tobacco in the bowl of a pipe in order to help keep it lit.
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Virginia
Also known as "Bright Tobacco", this varietal is used in cigarettes as well as pipe tobaccos. Virginia tobacco is naturally high in sugar content and is typically flue-cured.
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Despalillar
The Spanish term for Stemming. Wrappers have the entire stem removed, yielding two separate parts of the leaf to wrap cigars. Filler leaves have only half of the stem removed from the bottom (creating a ?Pata de Rana? or ?Frogs Legs? shape).
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Absolute Threshold
The Sensory Threshold where the smallest concentration of a substance can be detected by our senses; like one puff of smoke in a room may be the minimum amount for someone to smell.
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Varietal Family
A broader category which usually includes many specific varietals. In the cigar and pipe tobacco industry, varietal families like Burley, Virginia, Oriental, and Broadleaf are often referenced when the actual seed varietals being used are more specific.
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Tallo
Spanish word for stalk/trunk, as it relates to plants.
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Temsco
This name refers to a machine which assists in the bunching process, much like a Lieberman machine. Cigars which are bunched using the Lieberman or Temsco machine usually still have the wrapper applied by hand.
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Format
See Vitola.
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Tabacalera
Spanish term for cigar factory.
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Estate Vintage
This term refers to a specific year's crop from a specific farm or 'estate'. See Vintage.
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Stalk-Curing
The process of air-curing tobacco leaves while they are still attached to the stalk. Stalk-Curing can be applied to Stalk-Cut or Stalk-Primed tobaccos. This process takes longer and is more expensive than traditional air-curing but it nourishes the leaves with nutrients from the stalk - creating an extraordinary end product.
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Topping (Pipe Tobacco)
The process of adding a top coat of flavoring to aromatic tobaccos. Learn More - CMT Contribution.
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Briar
Also known as Bruyere in French, Briar is the name for wood that comes from the Burls found on the roots of the Heath Tree (Erica Arborea). Briar is widely considered the best and most popular material for Pipe making.
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Bird's Eye
See Burl Grain.
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Ferrule (Pipe)
Usually a metal or other potentially decorative ring used to reinforce the wood around the end of the Shank.
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CHT
This stands for Certified Honorary Tobacconist as defined by Tobacconist University. A CHT is a distinguished member of the Luxury Tobacco industry who has very deep knowledge in a specific field: such as Cigar or Pipe making. CHTs have not taken the Certification Exam, but do subscribe to the Code of Ethics & Standards. They have received their honorary Certification because their experience and wisdom make them a vital contributor to the knowledge base and oral traditions of our industry.
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Podar
The spanish term for Pruning, this refers to the process of trimming down seedlings while they are still in the Semilleros. By cutting off between half to two thirds of each tobacco leaf, agronomists/farmers force the plant to spend its energy on root and stalk development instead of the leaves.
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Havana-Obsessed Consumers
Since Cuba is the 'birthplace' of cigar tobacco, many consumers assume and continue to believe that Cuban cigars are the best in the world. While this sentiment has changed dramatically since the 1990s, there are still many cigar smokers around the world that believe in Cuban cigar supremacy. This bias/focus is further exasperated in the U.S. because Cuban products are not easily available to consumers, so they base their assumptions on romance and mythology.
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Buey
The Spanish term for an Ox. Buey are castrated, domesticated bulls used to plow fields and pull carts. They are still commonly used in cigar tobacco agriculture.
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Mazo
Spanish term for a 25, or more commonly 50 cigar bundle.
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Wetting
See Mojo.
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Broadleaf
Broadleaf is a dark tobacco varietal family popular for producing wrappers leaves that are enormous, resilient, and thick. These leaves are ideal for creating a Maduro colored wrapper. Traditionally, Broadleaf wrapper is not Primed, but rather the whole plant is stalk-cut when it matures.
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Dark Tobaccos
The classification for tobaccos that are used to create cigars. Dark tobaccos are more robust than light tobaccos, which are used for cigarettes and pipe tobaccos.
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Light Tobaccos
The classification for tobaccos that are used to create cigarettes and pipe tobaccos. The varietals in this category are less robust than the Dark tobaccos used to make cigars.
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Sabroso
The Spanish word for Savory, it also means 'tasty'.
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TSA - Tobacco Settlement Agreements
On November 23, 1998, after years of litigation between state courts and the cigarette industry, leading U.S. cigarette manufacturers signed an agreement with the Attorneys General of 46 states, five U.S. territories, and the District of Columbia, known as the Master Settlement Agreement, or MSA. Previous agreements were already signed with the other 4 states. Collectively, these agreements are known as the state Tobacco Settlement Agreements, or TSA. These agreements had the effect of making the cigarette industry the most regulated and highly taxed industry in America; and has the unique distinction of making this the only industry legally required to fund its own opposition. Learn more in Tobacco College - Cigarettes.
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MSA - Master Settlement Agreements
On November 23, 1998, after years of litigation between state courts and the cigarette industry, leading U.S. cigarette manufacturers signed an agreement with the Attorneys General of 46 states, five U.S. territories, and the District of Columbia, known as the Master Settlement Agreement, or MSA. Previous agreements were already signed with the other 4 states. Collectively, these agreements are known as the state Tobacco Settlement Agreements, or TSA. These agreements had the effect of making the cigarette industry the most regulated and highly taxed industry in America; and has the unique distinction of making this the only industry legally required to fund its own opposition. Learn more in Tobacco College - Cigarettes.
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Snus
Like snuff (and dip), snus is powderized tobacco that is placed between the lip and gums. Popular in Sweden and Norway, this type of snuff is typically steam or flue-cured, not fermented, and contains no added sugar. Snus use typically does not require spitting. It is illegal in the European Union, except Norway and Sweden.
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Tasting Methodology
Also referred to as Tasting, the methodology is a simple set of guidelines to follow when evaluating tobacco products: Observation, Description & Comparison, and Evaluation.
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Condiment (tobacco)
Also referred to as spice tobaccos, these types of pipe tobaccos are used in small proportions to add spice and enhance a blend. The two most popular condiment tobaccos are Latakia and Perique.
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Cabinet Selection
Cigars packaged in cedar boxes, in lieu of paper wrapped boxes. These boxes provide direct contact with the cedar and can be preferable for long term aging.
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Lector
Traditionally, in Cuba these were the professionals who read newspapers and books to the cigar rollers throughout the work day.
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Robusto
A contemporary American favorite, this size is approximately 5 x 50.
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Reconstituted Tobacco Sheet (R.T.S.)
Development of this homogenized tobacco-like product started as early as the 1930s by R.J. Reynolds. R.T.S. is comprised of stems, leaf, cellulose, additives, flavorings, and ingredients which are formed into sheets of ""paper"" and then shredded to be used in cigarette manufacturing.
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Pig-Tail
The cigar Head finishing technique that rolls the Flag into a tight scroll and is then tied into a knot. Pig-Tails can easily be bitten off in lieu of cutting.
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Seasoning
The process of slowly raising the moisture level in a humidor until the desired humidity is reached. (See Humidor Setup)
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Retronasal Olfaction
The act of sensing odors that originate from substances in our mouth. (See Retro-Haling, See Taste College: Smell)
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Stalk-Priming
As with priming, this process involves harvesting approximately a pair of leaves per week, but starts at the top and works down the plant. In addition, leaves are picked with a small piece of the stalk in tact, holding the leaves together. The picked stalk/leaves are draped over long sticks (cujes) and dried for 24 hours outdoors then moved into curing barns (casas de tabaco). These leaves take up much more room in the barns and take up to 90 days to dry out (2 to 3 times longer than primed leaves). While this was a more traditional harvesting method before and during the 20th Century, it is not commonly used today. Having the stalk connected to the leaves during priming is said to fortify and 'feed' the leaves during air-curing. View the CMT Academic Content.
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Jamastran Valley
A famous cigar tobacco growing area in the South Eastern part of Honduras near the Northern Nicaraguan border.
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English Market Selection (EMS)
This terminology refers to cigars which are a light to medium brown.
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Panatela
A slender cigar shape, traditionally 6" x 38rg, though frequently longer.
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Rosado
A Spanish term meaning "reddish", it refers to cigar wrappers that have a brown-red tint.
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Mata Fina
A Brazilian varietal cigar tobacco that is grown in the Reconcavo Basin. Mata Fina is Sun-Grown and produces excellent Oscuro and Maduro Wrappers. The flavor profile is typically rich, mild to medium strength, very aromatic, and naturally sweet.
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Anillo
Spanish for "ring", referring to cigar bands.
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Flat Top
A cigar box designed to hold one row of cigars.
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Carnauba
A wax derived from the palm of the Carnauba tree. This wax melts at high temperatures and is used to give pipes their final polish.
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Cellulose
An insoluble substance derived from plant glucose, used as a binder in Homogenized Tobacco Leaf.
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Exhausting
Term for the expulsion of heat and ammonia from the tobacco leaf during fermentation.
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German Blend (Cigarette)
Similar to American blend, but more Oriental tobacco is used. These cigarettes have a milder taste since the tobacco is not as heavily cased and flavored as American cigarettes.
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Gustation
The action or sense of tasting with the mouth/tongue.
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Media Rueda
The Spanish term for a 50 cigar bundle, also known as a Half-Wheel.
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Clay (Pipe)
A pipe made from hardened clay popularized by Sir Walter Raleigh in the early 1600's, characterized by a small bowl and long stem.
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Ready Rubbed
Flake cut pipe tobacco that has been broken up prior to packaging.
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Stogie
A slang term for a cheroot, named after the cigar making region of Conestoga, Pennsylvania, where the inexpensive cigars were popular with wagon drivers during the 1800s. Originally, these cigars were called 'stogas' until Marsh Wheeling introduced the Marsh Wheeling Stogie in 1848, a cigar measuring 7"" x 34rg. The Marsh Wheeling Stogie was half the price of competing cheroots and used long filler. (Historical Contribution by Frank Seltzer)
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Butane
Butane is a natural gas product, made from petroleum, that is flavorless and ideal for lighting luxury tobacco products. The best butane is filtered several times for optimal purity. Inferior butane will clog or corrupt a quality lighter; so buying the best is requisite. butane is sold pressurized in various sizes and containers, so it is best to match the brand of butane with the lighter you need to refill. Butane lighters come in a multitude of styles, including flint, battery & Piezo ignition, disposable, refillable, traditional flame, burner and torch varieties.
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Wilde
A cigarillo whose filler leaves protrude from the wrapper at the foot.
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Cherry Pickers
This term refers to consumers that scour retail Tobacconists looking for HTF products.
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M.Y.O.
The acronym for "Make Your Own" cigarettes. See synonym R.Y.O. "
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Flue-Curing
The Curing process which applies high levels of heat, in an enclosed space, to tobaccos. The heat dries out the leaves and fixes the sugar content of the tobacco. This technique is most commonly used on Virginia varietals which have naturally high sugar levels.
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Dry Cured Cigars
These cigars are slowly baked in an oven, after they are manufactured. They require only 12-15% relative humidity for preservation; this is approximately the same as indoor humidity. Dry Cured Cigars are usually machine-made with Sumatran, Central African, and/or Brazilian tobaccos. They are typically manufactured where they are most popular, in Europe.
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Differentiation Threshold
The Sensory Threshold where we can sense and perceive gradients in the tastes and smells (aromas) of a substance; lighter to heavier, milder to stronger.
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Taste Buds
Sensory organs on our tongue which we use to detect the five tastes: salty, sweet, sour, bitter, and umami.
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Cabo
The Spanish (or Cuban-Spanish) term for a partially smoked and unlit cigar.
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African Block Meerschaum
From Tanzania, Africa, this type of meerschaum differs from Turkish meerschaum in that it is fired at high temperatures, then stained in shades of brown, black, and yellow.
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Aroma
A distinctive and pleasant smell.
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Band (Cigar)
Synonym for cigar ring, traditionally located below the shoulder; a band may also be applied around the foot of the cigar.
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8-9-8
A standard cigar box designed to hold eight cigars on top, nine in the middle, and eight on the bottom. In most cases, these are cello boxes.
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Cello Box
A cigar box with rounded sides.
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H.T.F.
Acronym popularized in internet cigar communities which describes "Hard-To-Find" products, such as limited edition or special release cigars.
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Cohiba
The cigar brand created for Fidel Castro in 1966, the name "Cohiba" is the Carribean Island peoples' native term for tobacco.
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Dublin (Pipe)
A pipe with a half-oval shaped bowl, and a bent or straight stem.
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English Cigarette Blend
Cigarette blend consisting almost entirely of flue-cured tobacco, also referred to as Virginia. English blend cigarettes tend to have a fuller flavor than American blends.
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Escaparte
The Spanish word for the aging cabinet or room where cigars are stored and married after rolling: it can also be known as an añejamiento room.
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Igloodor
A makeshift humidor made from a plastic cooler, also referred to as a "Cooledor". This method of cigar storage is inexpensive, but can have drawbacks for long-term storage: plastic containers do not have the hygroscopic qualities that Spanish Cedar does, and the tight seal will not allow air to circulate in the humidor, increasing the risk of over-humidification and mold.Therefore, extra care and monitoring may be needed to maintain your cigars in this type of humidor. Additionally, cigar smokers may prefer a higher quality and more aesthetically pleasing humidor to store their luxury products.
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Mortise
A hole carved into the shank of the pipe into which the tenon is fit, connecting the bowl to the mouthpiece.
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Non-Aromatic
Pipe Tobacco without any additional flavoring/casing added. This is a misnomer since these tobaccos still produce aromas.
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Tabaco
Spanish for "tobacco", the word is also synonymous with "cigar" in Cuba.
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Tenon
The projection at the end of the pipe stem that fits into the mortise of the bowl.
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Tunneling
See Canoeing.
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Twist
Pipe tobacco made from leaves that are twisted together like a rope mimicking the Pressing process. See also "
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Vitolphilia
A term referring to the collecting and studying of cigar bands and labels. Spelled 'Vitolfilia' in Spanish.
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Luxury Tobacco
Tobacco products which are created by master craftsmen utilizing premium quality tobacco and intended to be enjoyed while savoring your time. Luxury tobacco is never homogenized, commoditized, or used out of habit or addiction.
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SOTL
Acronym for "Sisters of the Leaf".
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Meerschaum (Pipe)
German for "sea foam", a light, white, clay-like mineral primarily found in Turkey. Meerschaum resembles ivory and can be intricately carved.
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Plancha
Spanish for "iron", a term for the wooden boards on which tobacco leaves are placed before fermentation.
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Popular
Cuban term for a cigar made exclusively for the local Cuban market, and not exported.
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Tamper
A tool used to pack pipe tobacco. Tampers can be made from any hard, durable material, and can range in design from a simple nail-head style to ornate carved and cast versions. Inexpensive tampers can scratch and damage the bowl of the pipe, and softer metals, such as pewter, are preferred by discriminating pipe smokers.
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Scissor
Cigar scissors, unlike regular scissors, are beveled and shaped specifically to make a precise cut to the head of the cigar.
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Shaggy Foot
When the wrapper leaf is left un-trimmed on the foot of the cigar. This "Shaggy" wrapper can be removed or lit to start the cigar.
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Affective Marketing
The process of promoting a product or service in a way that appeals to, or influences feeling and emotion in the target audience. (See The Marketing of Cigars)
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Remedios
A tobacco growing region in central Cuba which includes Cienfuegos, Santa Clara, and Sancti Spiritus provinces.
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Cigar Maker
Technically, this term could refer to a cigar roller, since they 'make' the cigar, or the factory owner who 'makes' cigars. But, cigar maker is typically used in a much broader sense, referring to farmers, fermentors, blenders, and the people who put their names on a cigar brand.
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Umami
The fifth taste; described in Japanese as ""deliciousness"", umami is also defined as savory, or sabroso in Spanish. Specifically, umami is the taste of L-glutamate, the dominant amino acid in living things. Umami taste is common in fermented foods, aged cheese, meat, ketchup, tomatoes, mushrooms, boullion/broth, soy sauce, MSG, and breast milk.
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Flavor Memory
The ability to recall specific flavors (tastes and aromas) in your mind. Learn about [Reverse] Cigar Blending & Flavor Memory.
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Cigarette Additives
The following is a list of 599 additives found in commercial cigarette tobaccos. Luxury and premium tobaccos, whether cigarette, cigar, or pipe, should not contain any chemicals or unnatural flavorings.
Acetanisole, Acetic Acid, Acetoin, Acetophenone, 6-Acetoxydihydrotheaspirane, 2-Acetyl-3- Ethylpyrazine, 2-Acetyl-5-Methylfuran, Acetylpyrazine, 2-Acetylpyridine, 3-Acetylpyridine, 2-Acetylthiazole, Aconitic Acid, dl-Alanine, Alfalfa Extract, Allspice Extract, Oleoresin, And Oil, Allyl Hexanoate, Allyl Ionone, Almond Bitter Oil, Ambergris Tincture, Ammonia, Ammonium Bicarbonate, Ammonium Hydroxide, Ammonium Phosphate Dibasic, Ammonium Sulfide, Amyl Alcohol, Amyl Butyrate, Amyl Formate, Amyl Octanoate, alpha-Amylcinnamaldehyde, Amyris Oil, trans-Anethole, Angelica Root Extract, Oil and Seed Oil, Anise, Anise Star, Extract and Oils, Anisyl Acetate, Anisyl Alcohol, Anisyl Formate, Anisyl Phenylacetate, Apple Juice Concentrate, Extract, and Skins, Apricot Extract and Juice Concentrate, 1-Arginine, Asafetida Fluid Extract And Oil, Ascorbic Acid, 1-Asparagine Monohydrate, 1-Aspartic Acid, Balsam Peru and Oil, Basil Oil, Bay Leaf, Oil and Sweet Oil, Beeswax White, Beet Juice Concentrate, Benzaldehyde, Benzaldehyde Glyceryl Acetal, Benzoic Acid, Benzoin, Benzoin Resin, Benzophenone, Benzyl Alcohol, Benzyl Benzoate, Benzyl Butyrate, Benzyl Cinnamate, Benzyl Propionate, Benzyl Salicylate, Bergamot Oil, Bisabolene, Black Currant Buds Absolute, Borneol, Bornyl Acetate, Buchu Leaf Oil, 1, 3-Butanediol, 2, 3-Butanedione, 1-Butanol, 2-Butanone, 4(2-Butenylidene)-3, 5, 5-Trimethyl-2-Cyclohexen-1-One, Butter, Butter Esters, and Butter Oil, Butyl Acetate, Butyl Butyrate, Butyl Butyryl Lactate, Butyl Isovalerate, Butyl Phenylacetate, Butyl Undecylenate, 3-Butylidenephthalide, Butyric Acid, Cadinene, Caffeine, Calcium Carbonate, Camphene, Cananga Oil, Capsicum Oleoresin, Caramel Color, Caraway Oil, Carbon Dioxide, Cardamom Oleoresin, Extract, Seed Oil, and Powder, Carob Bean and Extract, beta-Carotene, Carrot Oil, Carvacrol, 4-Carvomenthenol, 1-Carvone, beta-Caryophyllene, beta-Caryophyllene Oxide, Cascarilla Oil and Bark Extract, Cassia Bark Oil, Cassie Absolute and Oil, Castoreum Extract, Tincture and Absolute, Cedar Leaf Oil, Cedarwood Oil Terpenes and Virginiana, Cedrol, Celery Seed Extract, Solid, Oil, And Oleoresin, Cellulose Fiber, Chamomile Flower Oil And Extract, Chicory Extract, Chocolate, Cinnamaldehyde, Cinnamic Acid, Cinnamon Leaf Oil, Bark Oil, and Extract, Cinnamyl Acetate, Cinnamyl Alcohol, Cinnamyl Cinnamate, Cinnamyl Isovalerate, Cinnamyl Propionate, Citral, Citric Acid, Citronella Oil, dl-Citronellol, Citronellyl Butyrate, Citronellyl Isobutyrate, Civet Absolute, Clary Oil, Clover Tops, Red Solid Extract, Cocoa, Cocoa Shells, Extract, Distillate And Powder, Coconut Oil, Coffee, Cognac White and Green Oil, Copaiba Oil, Coriander Extract and Oil, Corn Oil, Corn Silk, Costus Root Oil, Cubeb Oil, Cuminaldehyde, para-Cymene, 1-Cysteine, Dandelion Root Solid Extract, Davana Oil, 2-trans, 4-trans-Decadienal, delta-Decalactone, gamma-Decalactone, Decanal, Decanoic Acid, 1-Decanol, 2-Decenal, Dehydromenthofurolactone, Diethyl Malonate, Diethyl Sebacate, 2, 3-Diethylpyrazine, Dihydro Anethole, 5, 7-Dihydro-2-Methylthieno(3, 4-D) Pyrimidine, Dill Seed Oil and Extract, meta-Dimethoxybenzene, para-Dimethoxybenzene, 2, 6-Dimethoxyphenol, Dimethyl Succinate, 3, 4-Dimethyl-1, 2-Cyclopentanedione, 3, 5- Dimethyl-1, 2-Cyclopentanedione, 3, 7-Dimethyl-1, 3, 6-Octatriene, 4, 5-Dimethyl-3-Hydroxy-2, 5-Dihydrofuran-2-One, 6, 10-Dimethyl-5, 9-Undecadien-2-One, 3, 7-Dimethyl-6-Octenoic Acid, 2, 4-Dimethylacetophenone, alpha, para-Dimethylbenzyl Alcohol, alpha, alpha-Dimethylphenethyl Acetate, alpha, alpha Dimethylphenethyl Butyrate, 2, 3-Dimethylpyrazine, 2, 5-Dimethylpyrazine, 2, 6-Dimethylpyrazine, Dimethyltetrahydrobenzofuranone, delta-Dodecalactone, gamma-Dodecalactone, para-Ethoxybenzaldehyde, Ethyl 10-Undecenoate, Ethyl 2-Methylbutyrate, Ethyl Acetate, Ethyl Acetoacetate, Ethyl Alcohol, Ethyl Benzoate, Ethyl Butyrate, Ethyl Cinnamate, Ethyl Decanoate, Ethyl Fenchol, Ethyl Furoate, Ethyl Heptanoate, Ethyl Hexanoate, Ethyl Isovalerate, Ethyl Lactate, Ethyl Laurate, Ethyl Levulinate, Ethyl Maltol, Ethyl Methyl Phenylglycidate, Ethyl Myristate, Ethyl Nonanoate, Ethyl Octadecanoate, Ethyl Octanoate, Ethyl Oleate, Ethyl Palmitate, Ethyl Phenylacetate, Ethyl Propionate, Ethyl Salicylate, Ethyl trans-2-Butenoate, Ethyl Valerate, Ethyl Vanillin, 2-Ethyl (or Methyl)-(3, 5 and 6)-Methoxypyrazine, 2-Ethyl-1-Hexanol, 3-Ethyl -2 -Hydroxy-2-Cyclopenten-1-One, 2-Ethyl-3, (5 or 6)-Dimethylpyrazine, 5-Ethyl-3-Hydroxy-4-Methyl-2(5H)-Furanone, 2-Ethyl-3-Methylpyrazine, 4-Ethylbenzaldehyde, 4-Ethylguaiacol, para-Ethylphenol, 3-Ethylpyridine, Eucalyptol, Farnesol, D-Fenchone, Fennel Sweet Oil, Fenugreek, Extract, Resin, and Absolute, Fig Juice Concentrate, Food Starch Modified, Furfuryl Mercaptan, 4-(2-Furyl)-3-Buten-2-One, Galbanum Oil, Genet Absolute, Gentian Root Extract, Geraniol, Geranium Rose Oil, Geranyl Acetate, Geranyl Butyrate, Geranyl Formate, Geranyl Isovalerate, Geranyl Phenylacetate, Ginger Oil and Oleoresin, 1-Glutamic Acid, 1-Glutamine, Glycerol, Glycyrrhizin Ammoniated, Grape Juice Concentrate, Guaiac Wood Oil, Guaiacol, Guar Gum, 2, 4-Heptadienal, gamma-Heptalactone, Heptanoic Acid, 2-Heptanone, 3-Hepten-2-One, 2-Hepten-4-One, 4-Heptenal, trans -2-Heptenal, Heptyl Acetate, omega-6-Hexadecenlactone, gamma-Hexalactone, Hexanal, Hexanoic Acid, 2-Hexen-1-Ol, 3-Hexen-1-Ol, cis-3-Hexen-1-Yl Acetate, 2-Hexenal, 3-Hexenoic Acid, trans-2-Hexenoic Acid, cis-3-Hexenyl Formate, Hexyl 2-Methylbutyrate, Hexyl Acetate, Hexyl Alcohol, Hexyl Phenylacetate, 1-Histidine, Honey, Hops Oil, Hydrolyzed Milk Solids, Hydrolyzed Plant Proteins, 5-Hydroxy-2, 4-Decadienoic Acid delta- Lactone, 4-Hydroxy-2, 5-Dimethyl-3(2H)-Furanone, 2-Hydroxy-3, 5, 5-Trimethyl-2-Cyclohexen-1-One, 4-Hydroxy -3-Pentenoic Acid Lactone, 2-Hydroxy-4-Methylbenzaldehyde, 4-Hydroxybutanoic Acid Lactone, Hydroxycitronellal, 6-Hydroxydihydrotheaspirane, 4-(para-Hydroxyphenyl)-2-Butanone, Hyssop Oil, Immortelle Absolute and Extract, alpha-Ionone, beta-Ionone, alpha-Irone, Isoamyl Acetate, Isoamyl Benzoate, Isoamyl Butyrate, Isoamyl Cinnamate, Isoamyl Formate, Isoamyl Hexanoate, Isoamyl Isovalerate, Isoamyl Octanoate, Isoamyl Phenylacetate, Isobornyl Acetate, Isobutyl Acetate, Isobutyl Alcohol, Isobutyl Cinnamate, Isobutyl Phenylacetate, Isobutyl Salicylate, 2-Isobutyl-3-Methoxypyrazine, alpha-Isobutylphenethyl Alcohol, Isobutyraldehyde, Isobutyric Acid, d, l-Isoleucine, alpha-Isomethylionone, 2-Isopropylphenol, Isovaleric Acid, Jasmine Absolute, Concrete and Oil, Kola Nut Extract, Labdanum Absolute and Oleoresin, Lactic Acid, Lauric Acid, Lauric Aldehyde, Lavandin Oil, Lavender Oil, Lemon Oil and Extract, Lemongrass Oil, 1-Leucine, Levulinic Acid, Licorice Root, Fluid, Extract and Powder, Lime Oil , Linalool, Linalool Oxide, Linalyl Acetate, Linden Flowers, Lovage Oil And Extract, 1-Lysine, Mace Powder, Extract and Oil , Magnesium Carbonate, Malic Acid, Malt and Malt Extract, Maltodextrin, Maltol, Maltyl Isobutyrate, Mandarin Oil, Maple Syrup and Concentrate, Mate Leaf, Absolute and Oil, para-Mentha-8-Thiol-3-One, Menthol, Menthone, Menthyl Acetate, dl-Methionine, Methoprene, 2-Methoxy-4-Methylphenol, 2-Methoxy-4-Vinylphenol, para-Methoxybenzaldehyde, 1-(para-Methoxyphenyl)-1-Penten-3-One, 4-(para-Methoxyphenyl)-2-Butanone, 1-(para-Methoxyphenyl)-2-Propanone, Methoxypyrazine, Methyl 2-Furoate, Methyl 2-Octynoate, Methyl 2-Pyrrolyl Ketone, Methyl Anisate, Methyl Anthranilate, Methyl Benzoate, Methyl Cinnamate, Methyl Dihydrojasmonate, Methyl Ester of Rosin, Partially Hydrogenated, Methyl Isovalerate, Methyl Linoleate (48%), Methyl Linolenate (52%) Mixture, Methyl Naphthyl Ketone, Methyl Nicotinate, Methyl Phenylacetate, Methyl Salicylate, Methyl Sulfide, 3-Methyl-1-Cyclopentadecanone, 4-Methyl-1-Phenyl-2-Pentanone, 5-Methyl-2-Phenyl-2-Hexenal, 5-Methyl-2-Thiophenecarboxaldehyde, 6-Methyl-3, -5-Heptadien-2-One, 2-Methyl-3-(para-Isopropylphenyl) Propionaldehyde, 5-Methyl-3-Hexen-2-One, 1-Methyl-3Methoxy-4-Isopropylbenzene, 4-Methyl-3-Pentene-2-One, 2-Methyl-4-Phenylbutyraldehyde, 6-Methyl-5-Hepten-2-One, 4-Methyl-5-Thiazoleethanol, 4-Methyl-5-Vinylthiazole, Methyl-alpha-Ionone, Methyl-trans-2-Butenoic Acid, 4-Methylacetophenone, para-Methylanisole, alpha-Methylbenzyl Acetate, alpha-Methylbenzyl Alcohol, 2-Methylbutyraldehyde, 3-Methylbutyraldehyde, 2-Methylbutyric Acid, alpha-Methylcinnamaldehyde, Methylcyclopentenolone, 2-Methylheptanoic Acid, 2-Methylhexanoic Acid, 3-Methylpentanoic Acid, 4-Methylpentanoic Acid, 2-Methylpyrazine, 5-Methylquinoxaline, 2-Methyltetrahydrofuran-3-One, (Methylthio)Methylpyrazine (Mixture Of Isomers), 3-Methylthiopropionaldehyde, Methyl 3-Methylthiopropionate, 2-Methylvaleric Acid, Mimosa Absolute and Extract, Molasses Extract and Tincture, Mountain Maple Solid Extract, Mullein Flowers, Myristaldehyde, Myristic Acid, Myrrh Oil, beta-Napthyl Ethyl Ether, Nerol, Neroli Bigarde Oil, Nerolidol, Nona-2-trans, 6-cis-Dienal, 2, 6-Nonadien-1-Ol, gamma-Nonalactone, Nonanal, Nonanoic Acid, Nonanone, trans-2-Nonen-1-Ol, 2-Nonenal, Nonyl Acetate, Nutmeg Powder and Oil, Oak Chips Extract and Oil, Oak Moss Absolute, 9, 12-Octadecadienoic Acid (48%) And 9, 12, 15-Octadecatrienoic Acid (52%), delta-Octalactone, gamma-Octalactone, Octanal, Octanoic Acid, 1-Octanol, 2-Octanone, 3-Octen-2-One, 1-Octen-3-Ol, 1-Octen-3-Yl Acetate, 2-Octenal, Octyl Isobutyrate, Oleic Acid , Olibanum Oil, Opoponax Oil And Gum, Orange Blossoms Water, Absolute, and Leaf Absolute, Orange Oil and Extract, Origanum Oil, Orris Concrete Oil and Root Extract, Palmarosa Oil, Palmitic Acid, Parsley Seed Oil, Patchouli Oil, omega-Pentadecalactone, 2, 3-Pentanedione, 2-Pentanone, 4-Pentenoic Acid, 2-Pentylpyridine, Pepper Oil, Black And White, Peppermint Oil, Peruvian (Bois De Rose) Oil, Petitgrain Absolute, Mandarin Oil and Terpeneless Oil, alpha-Phellandrene, 2-Phenenthyl Acetate, Phenenthyl Alcohol, Phenethyl Butyrate, Phenethyl Cinnamate, Phenethyl Isobutyrate, Phenethyl Isovalerate, Phenethyl Phenylacetate, Phenethyl Salicylate, 1-Phenyl-1-Propanol, 3-Phenyl-1-Propanol, 2-Phenyl-2-Butenal, 4-Phenyl-3-Buten-2-Ol, 4-Phenyl-3-Buten-2-One, Phenylacetaldehyde, Phenylacetic Acid, 1-Phenylalanine, 3-Phenylpropionaldehyde, 3-Phenylpropionic Acid, 3-Phenylpropyl Acetate, 3-Phenylpropyl Cinnamate, 2-(3-Phenylpropyl)Tetrahydrofuran, Phosphoric Acid, Pimenta Leaf Oil, Pine Needle Oil, Pine Oil, Scotch, Pineapple Juice Concentrate, alpha-Pinene, beta-Pinene, D-Piperitone, Piperonal, Pipsissewa Leaf Extract, Plum Juice, Potassium Sorbate, 1-Proline, Propenylguaethol, Propionic Acid, Propyl Acetate, Propyl para-Hydroxybenzoate, Propylene Glycol, 3-Propylidenephthalide, Prune Juice and Concentrate, Pyridine, Pyroligneous Acid And Extract, Pyrrole, Pyruvic Acid, Raisin Juice Concentrate, Rhodinol, Rose Absolute and Oil, Rosemary Oil, Rum, Rum Ether, Rye Extract, Sage, Sage Oil, and Sage Oleoresin, Salicylaldehyde, Sandalwood Oil, Yellow, Sclareolide, Skatole, Smoke Flavor, Snakeroot Oil, Sodium Acetate, Sodium Benzoate, Sodium Bicarbonate, Sodium Carbonate, Sodium Chloride, Sodium Citrate, Sodium Hydroxide, Solanone, Spearmint Oil, Styrax Extract, Gum and Oil, Sucrose Octaacetate, Sugar Alcohols, Sugars, Tagetes Oil, Tannic Acid, Tartaric Acid, Tea Leaf and Absolute, alpha-Terpineol, Terpinolene, Terpinyl Acetate, 5, 6, 7, 8-Tetrahydroquinoxaline, 1, 5, 5, 9-Tetramethyl-13-Oxatricyclo(8.3.0.0(4, 9))Tridecane, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 3, 4, 5, 6-Tetramethylethyl-Cyclohexanone, 2, 3, 5, 6-Tetramethylpyrazine, Thiamine Hydrochloride, Thiazole, 1-Threonine, Thyme Oil, White and Red, Thymol, Tobacco Extracts, Tochopherols (mixed), Tolu Balsam Gum and Extract, Tolualdehydes, para-Tolyl 3-Methylbutyrate, para-Tolyl Acetaldehyde, para-Tolyl Acetate, para-Tolyl Isobutyrate, para-Tolyl Phenylacetate, Triacetin, 2-Tridecanone, 2-Tridecenal, Triethyl Citrate, 3, 5, 5-Trimethyl -1-Hexanol, para, alpha, alpha-Trimethylbenzyl Alcohol, 4-(2, 6, 6-Trimethylcyclohex-1-Enyl)But-2-En-4-One, 2, 6, 6-Trimethylcyclohex-2-Ene-1, 4-Dione, 2, 6, 6-Trimethylcyclohexa-1, 3-Dienyl Methan, 4-(2, 6, 6-Trimethylcyclohexa-1, 3-Dienyl)But-2-En-4-One, 2, 2, 6-Trimethylcyclohexanone, 2, 3, 5-Trimethylpyrazine, 1-Tyrosine, delta-Undercalactone, gamma-Undecalactone, Undecanal, 2-Undecanone, 10-Undecenal, Urea, Valencene, Valeraldehyde, Valerian Root Extract, Oil and Powder, Valeric Acid, gamma-Valerolactone, Valine, Vanilla Extract And Oleoresin, Vanillin, Veratraldehyde, Vetiver Oil, Vinegar, Violet Leaf Absolute, Walnut Hull Extract, Water, Wheat Extract And Flour, Wild Cherry Bark Extract, Wine and Wine Sherry, Xanthan Gum, 3, 4-Xylenol, Yeast
Source: www.quitsmokingsupport.com
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Touch-up
The process of evening the burn of a cigar; usually done by lighting the outer wrapper to accelerate the burn rate so the cigar will burn evenly.
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Mouthfeel
1.) The general sensation of the unlit cigar wrapper in the mouth.
2.) The sensation in the mouth created by the body (richness, fullness, or thinness) of the smoke.
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Descriptors
Words used to describe the flavors and sensations created by the tobacco and perceived by the taster.
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Pre-Light
The term used to describe the characteristics of a tobacco before it is smoked.
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Smoking
The act of tasting and savoring the flavors and sensations produced by burning luxury and premium tobaccos.
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Spice
A physical sensation that varies from tingling to stinging in the mouth, back of the throat, palate, throughout our nasal passages and nose.
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Seed Families
The five major cigar seed varietal families are: Mata Fina, Broadleaf, Habanesis (Habano), Sumatra, and San Andres. All contemporary seed varietals originate from one of these families.
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Facing
The proper way to display a cigar, with the head facing up and the band facing forward. The term also refers to all merchandise since most products have a "face" and should be properly displayed.
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Sommelier
An educated and trained wine professional, usually working in restaurants, bars, and liquor stores. Sommeliers specialize in wine selection, presentation, and pairings.
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Certified Cigar Sommelier Tobacconist (CCST)
An educated and trained cigar professional, usually working in restaurants, bars, and liquor stores. Certified Cigar Sommelier Tobacconists specialize in cigar selection, presentation, and pairings. See our content for Certified Cigar Sommelier Tobacconists, CCST.
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Natural (Wrapper Color)
A term used to describe light brown to brown wrapper color: ranging from Claro to Colorado Rosado.
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CCST
An educated and trained cigar professional, usually working in restaurants, bars, and liquor stores. Certified Cigar Sommelier Tobacconists specialize in cigar selection, presentation, and pairings. See our content for Certified Cigar Sommelier Tobacconists, CCST.
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Barber Poll
A term describing a cigar wrapped with two overlapping and color contrasting wrappers: looks like a barber pole or candy cane.
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P.C.A.
The Premium Cigar Association. Formerly known as International Premium Cigar and Pipe Retailers association (IPCPR). Founded in 1932 as the R.T.D.A., this is the premier organization for retail tobacconists in the U.S.A.
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Arrugado (bunch) Rolling
The Spanish term for Accordion (bunch) rolling.
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Puro Sabor
Spanish term for 'pure flavor', also the name of The Nicaraguan Chamber of Tobacco's annual cigar festival in Nicaragua. Established in 2008, the chamber represents the interests of Nicaragua's most important cigar tobacco growers and manufacturers.
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MSRP
Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price. MSRP are a suggestion, but rarely useful since state taxes vary throughout the U.S..
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Country of Origin (COO)
The country where the cigar is manufactured, which rarely describes all of the components since cigars are often blended with tobaccos from different countries.
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Date of Creation (DOC)
The date a cigar was manufactured.
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Strength (tobacco)
the intensity of the nicotine in the cigar or pipe tobacco.
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Certified Cigar Reviews (CCR)
The interactive web based platform created by Tobacconist University where people can review and rate cigars using the Certified Tobacconist University standards and process. Visit www.certifiedcigarreviews.com
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Dog Walker
Describes a smaller cigar which can be smoked in the short amount of time it takes to walk a dog.
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Pairing
The art and practice of combining beverages, food, occasions and events with cigars in order to enhance the organoleptic experience. Also see Contrast Pairing and Like Pairing.
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Like Pairing
The process of pairing food and beverages with cigars that share similar flavor traits. Also see Pairing and Contrast Pairing.
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Contrast Pairing
The process of pairing dissimilar flavors together to create an interplay which enhances the experience: think of peanut butter and chocolate or grilled cheese and tomato soup. Also see pairing and like pairing.
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Table Cut Cigar
A cigar made from the rolling table leaf trimmings of a premium cigar - not quite a premium cigar, but more of an "ultra-premium" of short filler / tripa corta - according to Steve Saka at Dunbarton Tobacco & Trust.
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Tripa Corta
Spanish term for short filler.
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Tripa Media
Spanish term for mixed filler; short and long.
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Tripa Larga
Spanish term for long filler.
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Complexity
this term refers to the sophistication and nuance you perceive in the flavor (taste+aroma) of tobaccos.
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Cold Draw
The process of puffing on a cigar after cutting, but before lighting. This can help you test the pre-light flavors of the cigar and the draw. If the draw seems tight you can take a little more off the head and/or massage the body of the cigar to loosen up the filler tobaccos.
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Colita
The Spanish word word for tail, used to describe unique cigar head finishing techniques like pig-tail.
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Benchmark Cigar
A cigar in the TU and Certified Cigar Review (CCR) database that has all of the objective data and an image documented. Click here for more info.
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Fresh
Newly made or not stale; these are the most appropriate definitions for fresh as it applies to cigars or pipe tobaccos. But beware of this word as it is inaccurately used as a catchall to describe myriad things when it should not be.
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Micro-Fermentation
A term used by some to describe the chemical changes that occur during Cigar Añejamiento.
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