The simplest way to categorise cigars is by how they’re made: either crafted by hand or produced by machine. For many beginners, the lower price of machine-made cigars can seem tempting. But for those who want to experience the true art of cigar smoking, hand-rolled cigars are in a class of their own.
Hand-Rolled Cigars: Pure Tobacco Craftsmanship
Unlike machine-made cigars, which often use chopped tobacco mixed with paper, preservatives, and additives, a handmade cigar is 100% tobacco — from the filler to the binder to the wrapper.
- Filler: long leaves that form the body of the cigar
- Binder: a leaf to hold the filler together
- Wrapper: the outer leaf that delivers much of the cigar’s flavour and aroma
The result is a cigar with far greater depth, balance, and complexity than its machine-made counterpart. Most premium hand-rolled cigars use tobacco grown in renowned regions such as Cuba, the Dominican Republic, Honduras, and Nicaragua — each terroir bringing distinctive flavours, from creamy and smooth to spicy and bold.
Tip: Be cautious — some cigars are marketed as “handmade” when only the wrapper is applied by hand over a short-filler blend bunched by machine. True handmade cigars will use long-filler tobacco throughout.
Daily Smokers vs. Connoisseurs
Every smoker has their own tastes and budget:
- Everyday smokers may appreciate machine-made cigars for their affordability and convenience, especially if they enjoy several cigars a day.
- Connoisseurs, or those who savour an occasional cigar as a ritual or treat, will find that a hand-rolled cigar is worth every penny. The craftsmanship, slow burn, and evolving flavours provide an experience that machine-made cigars simply cannot match.
Hand-rolled cigars aren’t just about smoking — they’re about tradition, heritage, and enjoying tobacco in its purest form.
Whether you’re an everyday smoker or an aspiring aficionado, knowing the difference helps you choose the right cigar for the right moment.