Janoschka magazine Linked_V3_2018

issue #3 ©
l i n k e d
23
By rolling these filler leaves into the binder leaves, the
torcedora forms the bunch (bonche). Here she must be
careful to adhere precisely to the prescribed diameter
of the cigar format that she is producing. Keeping the
pressure even, she begins to roll up the cigar at what
will later be the foot. The head – or mouth end (boquilla)
– is cut using the guillotine. Then the bunch is pressed
in a wooden mould for at least thirty minutes in order
to set the shape.
As the next step, the cigar roller prepares her wrapper
leaf (capa) out of half of one of the leaves. This is a key
carrier of flavour in the cigar, but also influences the
appearance of the cigar and its ability to burn uniformly.
The torcedora moistens this leaf a little so as to be able
to fit it perfectly to the form of the bunch.
She lays it on the board with the leaf veins facing
upwards, so that the smooth, unblemished side of
the leaf will later form the outer skin of the Habano.
The tip of the wrapper forms the mouthpiece of the
cigar. With a light incision of her curved blade she
cuts the wrapper to size, paying particular attention
to the edge which will later be visible on the cigar.
As she wraps the bunch with the wrapper, her fingers
stretch the leaf taut and straighten it with great
skill. The leaf must be stretched perfectly in order to
give the cigar a flawless, silky shimmering skin. The
velvety, matte-finish surface embodies the perfection
of a Habano.