You’ve probably noticed that public opinion of Mexican San Andres tobacco has drastically shifted in the last few years. Until recently, Mexican tobacco was viewed by Americans as less than desirable, something only fit for machine made or short filler cigars.
To help figure out Mexican San Andres tobacco, I’ve solicited the help of Nicholas Melillo, one of the key individuals responsible for improving the sentiment on this tobacco by increasing accessibility, accountability, and awareness.
WHAT IS MEXICAN SAN ANDRES TOBACCO?
Much like other tobacco growing regions, the San Andres Valley located at the bottom of the Gulf of Mexico is perfectly positioned near volcanoes that provide nutrient-dense soil.
San Andres is thick, hearty, and perfectly suited for Maduro fermentation. Nick points out that Mexican San Andres Negros tobacco seeds pre-date Cuban-seed, spreading up from Peru into Central America, into Mexico, and then into Caribbean.
It’s not often that we’re able to taste wrapper-grade tobacco on its own in a purito format, so I asked Nick how he’d describe the leaf by itself. He said that it has a real depth of earthiness to it, some sweetness, and can have cocoa-like qualities. “As long as you don’t use too much of it, it’s a phenomenal binder and wrapper leaf. As a puro, though, it can be a bit rough.”
WHY HAVE WE JUST RECENTLY STARTED APPRECIATING SAN ANDRES TOBACCO?
