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The most basic method of categorizing cigars is by the method in which they are made. Cigars are either rolled by hand, or manufactured by machines. The novice smoker may be tempted to start by trying those machine made brands sold in Drug Stores, such as Dutch Masters or El Producto. However, the aspiring connoisseur should consider spending a few more pennies and moving up to hand rolled cigars, which are sold online or at a local tobacconist.
We recommend the following online retailers for a great selection of hand rolled cigars:
Hand Rolled Cigars Are Made With Pure Tobacco
The filler in machine made cigars is not 100% tobacco, but may contain paper, preservatives, and various chemicals. On the other hand, a hand made cigar consists of the filler, the binder to hold the filler, and the outer wrapper, all consisting of 100% tobacco.
Most of the tobacco in hand rolled cigars is imported from other countries, such as the Dominican Republic. For the most part, such tobacco has a much better flavor than what is used in the machine made cigars. Although long filler is used in cigars which are totally made by hand, it is noted that some cigars are mislabeled as hand made because the wrapper was rolled by hand over a binder containing short filler, which was bunched and bound by machines.
Not All Hand Rolled Cigars Are Expensive
Although hand rolled cigars are more expensive than those mass produced by machines, there are many inexpensive hand rolled cigars with prices of $1.00 or less. It is not unusual for a local tobacconists to have grab bags or bins of single cigars priced as low as one dollar. It is also possible to purchase boxes or bundles of inexpensive hand rolled cigars online. Curly Heads are among the first hand rolled cigars that I ever smoked, and though mild and a bit rustic, they are still appealing to me after my palate has matured over many years. When purchased by the box, the cost is only $1.50 per stick at some cigar retailers.
Daily Smokers Vs Connoisseurs
Individual cigar smokers have their own unique tastes, and have their own individual financial constraints. Those who enjoy smoking several cigars per day may need an "everyday" cigar that is inexpensive. Therefore, the taste and cost of machine made cigars can be very attractive to some smokers. However, to the aspiring or experienced connoisseurs, the ones who enjoy an occasional cigar as a special treat, the hand rolled cigar is worth every penny.
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