Expert: James Yee - 3/12/2008

Question
QUESTION: I've noticed that the Hoyo de Monterrey Double Corona is a popular brand, but i only have the Honduras one available.  Is there a difference with the Cuban one?

ANSWER: Hi Kain,

Yes, there's a difference between Cuban tobacco and Non-Cuban tobacco.  The Cuban Hoyo de Monterrey is stronger and more flavourful whereas the non-Cuban version is milder in strength and smoother in taste.  Tobacco used in the Cuban version is entirely grown in Cuba and tobacco for the non-Cuban version is grown in Honduras. (Non-Cuban Hoyo de Monterrey tobacco is derived from Cuban tobacco seed but cultivated in the Honduras.  As a result, the now hybrid tobacco does not taste like genuine Cuban tobacco and instead, has its own distinct flavour.)

The Cuban version is also available in regular dress box versions as well as a "cabinet selection" which is packaged specifically for long-term aging.  Non-Cuban Hoyo de Monterreys are box-pressed and only packaged in dress boxes.

Like the other non-Cuban cigars that share the same brand name as the Cuban versions, these two cigars are entirely different from each other.

Hopes this answers your question. If you have any more questions, please feel free to just ask and I'll be happy to help.

Regards,
James

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: where can one find cigars that are sixth priming ligero?  a lot of companies don't really give specifics on the long fillers, I know La Flor Dominica has some and Olivia...  the o there seem vague

Answer
Hi Kain,

Cigars that use "Sixth Priming Ligero" tobacco are usually cigars that have rich dark wrapper leaves such as Maduro or Oscuro-shade wrappers.  Coincidentally, because Sixth Priming Ligero leaves are usually picked last during cultivation, they are always large leaves so many large ring gauge cigars with dark wrappers use will use this tobacco.

There's a wide variety of premium cigars that use these leaves so you should be able to find many of these cigars at your local cigar shops.

Regards,
James