I'm wondering how/why it is that it's the wrapper (or binder?) that provides the bulk of a cigar's flavor. Why wouldn't it be the filler? Is not the filler the bulk of the tobacco?
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I'm wondering how/why it is that it's the wrapper (or binder?) that provides the bulk of a cigar's flavor. Why wouldn't it be the filler? Is not the filler the bulk of the tobacco?
I am not sure that the wrapper provides the bulk of the flavor. I think it is the wrapper that contributes mostly to differentiating the flavors. That, and the filler and wrapper are blended to complement each other, so I guess in a round about way, it does kind of dictate the flavor profile. My theory, anyway.
I know I have heard that you can switch out wrappers. Anybody up for an experiment?
http://i1329.photobucket.com/albums/...pstznbm3s2.gif
I think it also depends on the size of the cigar. If you have a 60rg there will be less wrapper to filler/binder than say a lancero or a corona.
I'm also among the heretics who don't buy the 'bulk of the flavor' conventional wisdom, although I do believe the wrapper and binder contribute a significant amount to the overall profile. Anyone who doesn't think so, just smoke thru the band once. You definitely know when you've hit it.
IMO the filler is the body of the cigar, while the wrapper is the soul. Go with 38-44 RG sticks if you want more of the wrapper flavor, but 44-54 will give more balance between wrapper and filler. However, this is just my experience. If I go to 60 RG sticks, the wrapper seems to get diluted out of the mix.
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As a chemist, that is the best emoji ever.Quote:
Originally Posted by Nature
In a medium RG, the wrapper is about 30-40% of the flavor, I'm told. The binder generally contributes very little to the flavor profile, while the filler is the majority. Kind of like saying that the patty contributes X% of flavor for a slider versus a regular-sized hamburger.
Some people love lanceros because the wrapper contributes a great percentage of the flavor.
IMO, a properly blended cigar should utilize the flavors to combine into something more than the sum of the parts.
It's the filler where you get most of the flavor.
But of course all components are chosen by a skilled blender to complement each other, so it's easy to associate a certain flavor with the wrapper.
Or leave the cellophane on :)Quote:
Originally Posted by Emperor Zurg
And gauge is one thing I've often read as it will impart its prominence. I've tried 3 different sticks of the same kind (CAO Gold Corona, Robusto, and Karat) and haven't noticed a difference. Not that I can perceive, but then my palate is not in league with those I read about describing flavors. I'd still assume I'd detect a difference...