"The World of Cuban Cigars and Rums" Tour

"The World of Cuban Cigars and Rums" Tour

Attractive walks through the streets and historical sites of Havana. We have launched a new tour package under the theme “The World of Cuban Cigars and Rums.” Available to every category of customers, from newcomers to connoisseurs, this package will help you gain a basic understanding of the Cuban cigars and rum distillates protected under certificates of distinctive names of origin.

Description:

Here are some of the topics covered by this package:

History: In 1492, a Spanish expedition to the New World first discovered tobacco in Cuba. Originally from South America and designated as Cohiba by its native Cuban consumers, the tobacco plant and its cigars were spread by the Spaniards throughout the World.

Cultivation: In the 16th century, tobacco was a naturally growing crop on the island. Eventually, the local climate conditions, combined with distinctive soil characteristics, turned the cigars rolled from this crop into an authentically Cuban product.

Sorting: Immediately after harvest, the tobacco leaves are subjected to a slow and careful moist-removal treatment that is a key to the success of the final cigar product.

Cigar manufacture: The quality of any Cuban cigar is strictly related to the artistic skills of its roller. These extraordinary skills have not changed much in the last 200 years.

Finish: In 1860, Gustave Bock, a European who settled in Havana to try his fortune, first introduced the bands around the Cuban cigars.

Trade marks: Under the existing internationally regulated protection of distinctive names of origin, 27 cigar names produced and marketed by Habanos S.A. and other Cuba-bases cigar makers enjoy Habano-name certification.

Aging: The tobacco leaves that are rolled into a Cuba cigar undergo a process of drying, fermentation, and aging.

Combining Cuban cigars, rum and meals: Marrying the right Cuban cigar and distillate with the right meal it becomes an art form through which a skillful sommelier can balance the flavors enjoyed by delighted customers. Meat, fish, deserts, rum, whiskey, brandy and cognac can all be combined with a choice of Cuban cigars.

A ritual: The Cuban cigars are lighted following a sort of ritual that enhances the customer's smoking experience.

Preservation: The Cuban cigars are stored in humidors that maintain their optimal smoking quality. On customer request, this package may also include a visit to one of Cuba’s best humidor stores.

Included:

• A local tour guide (Spanish, English, and Russian).

Approximative tour duration (total): 2 hours approximately.

Days available: Daily.

TOUR HOST: Mr. Juan Jesús Machín Gonzales, holder of degrees in tourism development and law, more than fifteen years of working experience in the Cuban tourist sector, an award winner at the 2011 and 2016 Habano Sommelier Contests.