A cigar is composed of three parts: the filler, the binder,
and the wrapper. Each of these parts play a vital role in the construction of
the cigar. If one part is off, it will greatly affect the quality of the cigar.
The filler is considered the heart of the cigar. It’s what gives the cigar its
size, how well it draws, and if properly blended, the filler adds to a cigar’s
flavor. So, let’s talk about the filler.
A cigar’s filler, also known as the guts (or tripa),
is the central part of the cigar. In its simplest form, a filler is a bunch of
tobacco leaves that are bound together by the binder. If properly constructed,
the filler will allow for a good draw and an even burn. The leaves are folded
in such a way as to create a passageway for air to flow down the length of the
cigar, through which the smoke is drawn after the cigar is lit. A “tight” cigar
is one in which the passageway does not allow for sufficient air flow. This
creates a slow, uneven burn. In the case of a “loose” cigar, the air flows too
freely, and it creates a fast, hot burn. A skilled cigar roller knows how to
avoid these problems. It is why experienced cigar rollers are highly regarded in
the business.
The tobaccos used for the filler will help determine
the cigar’s overall flavor and strength. Typically, filler tobaccos are sun
grown so that their leaves are heavier and thicker. Filler tobacco is classified
as either a) short filler: made from the remains of long filler production or leaves
that have holes or breaks in them, b) or long filler: made of whole tobacco
leaves that have been cut in half.
Like the cigar’s wrapper and binder, the tobacco used
for filler must undergo an aging process before it can be used. In the case of
a full-bodied tobacco, the longer it ages the better its taste improves. Whereas,
light and thin tobaccos can deteriorate if allowed to age for too long.
Fillers are usually blended by combining two or more
tobacco leaves. The goal of every Master Blender is to create a blend in which the
taste of the tobaccos used comes through. When you start smoking a well-blended
cigar, the strongest tobacco will dominate a milder one. At some point, the
other tobaccos’ flavors will become more pronounced and achieve a perfect
balance.
There are three major
types of cigar tobacco fillers: Cuban, Brazil Bahia Mata Fina, Java. Each variation
has its own specific flavor and taste. Cuban fillers are full bodied and have
the richest and most complex aroma. A Cuban filler is so unique that it is
easily recognized when smoked. Brazil Bahia Mata Fina is a medium- to full-bodied
tobacco with a pleasant fruity flavor. Java tobacco is mild, slightly bitter and
with some spicy flavors. By blending various tobaccos, a Master Blender can
create whole new flavors and tastes that differ greatly from the individual
leaves themselves.
“Ligero,” “Seco,” and “Volado” are terms used
to describe stalk position. Based on where on the plant the leaf is stationed will
determine its use. Leaves found at the top (Ligero) get the most sun exposure.
Therefore, these leaves provide the strongest and fullest flavor and are used
as wrappers. Leaves found in the middle (Seco) and bottom (Volado) part of the
plant get less sunlight. This means they have a subtler flavor and strength. Typically,
Seco and Volado leaves are used for fillers.
In conclusion, the filler
plays a vital role in determining the cigar’s size, draw/burn, and flavor. Leaves
from the middle part of the tobacco plant are used for filler. A leaf’s
position on the stalk will determine the filler’s flavor and strength. Blended fillers
are created by combing two or more leaves together. A great deal of knowledge,
skill, and patience goes into blending. It is the dream of every Master Blender
to create a blend so unique no one else can imitate it. The next time you fire
up a stogie, take some time to admire its filler. Because without it, your
cigar is just a smoke.