What is Filler?

The filler is the heart of a cigar, consisting of tobacco leaves that make up the bulk of the cigar’s body. The filler is crucial in determining the flavor, strength, and overall smoking experience of the cigar. There are two types of filler: long filler and short filler. Long filler consists of whole tobacco leaves that run the length of the cigar, providing a smoother and more consistent burn. Short filler, on the other hand, is made up of chopped or shredded tobacco leaves, often used in machine-made cigars. The filler blend is carefully crafted by cigar makers, who select different types of tobacco leaves to achieve the desired flavor profile. These leaves can come from different parts of the tobacco plant, and from different countries, each contributing unique characteristics to the cigar. For example, ligero leaves, which come from the top of the plant, are stronger and more robust, while seco leaves from the middle of the plant are milder and more aromatic. The complexity and balance of the filler blend are what give a cigar its distinctive taste and strength.