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Q & A: Tubar vs. Accordion Bunching?

Q.
I've heard about tubar and accordion bunching. What exactly is the difference?

7/15/09 | by ND of Seattle, WA

A.
Tubar bunching is the original style used in Cuba to roll cigars. The process involves rolling each leaf “en tubo style,” or in a tube shape similar to a straw. The tobaccos are then combined, creating a cylinder shape consisting of smaller tubes of tobacco on the inside, which are then concealed by a binder and wrapper. Creating cigars using this style allows for a cool, slow and even burn in addition to supremely consistent construction and flavor. On the other hand, accordion bunching is a method practiced outside of Cuba in Central America and around the Caribbean and focuses on bunching the tobacco leaves in a fashion similar to an authentic Japanese hand fan. This method takes less time to roll and can be correctly accomplished by less experienced torcedors, which is why it is utilized more often than the traditional tubar style of bunching. Accordion bunching also allows for the use of a liberman, a tool used to roll up the filler with the binder, which saves a lot of time and usually maintains consistency in draw and construction from stick to stick.

by Dave

Review: Oliva Connecticut Reserve

Dave Oliva Connecticut Reserve
Torpedo (6.5"x52) Smooth with cedar and earth throughout. Draw was a bit tight at first but drastically opened up within less than half an inch. The aroma is excellent and non-offensive as the strength slowly builds from start to finish but still maintains a smooth, refined flavor.

Lonsdale (6.5"x44) The skinny ring gauge creates a well-rounded but more robust character allowing this medium Connecticut to feel a bit more full in body. The aftertaste is potent, leaving crisp cedar like flavors on the palate with pronounced notes of pepper.

Robusto (5.0"x50) No soft spots were present and the blend burned even and cool. Produced a ton of thick smoke but was far less complex than expected. Consistent flavor from start to finish with little left for the imagination.

Toro (6.0"x50) Burned evenly from start to finish and offered a creamy character with some light spice. Unfortunately the flavors are not as pronounced in comparison to the torpedo or lonsdale.

Churchill (7.0"x50) Size was not balanced as it burned hot and tickled the back of the throat. The wrapper burned down the right side before attempting to correct itself unsuccessfully. If you’re looking for a Connecticut wrapped stick with some hearty undertones and a robust finish then this is your size.
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