Cigar filler tobacco in North Bengal is harvested by priming 4-5 mature leaves at a time. The sun-cured leaves are strung on jute strings and spread on bamboo sticks, which are then placed on multi-tier bamboo structures in open spaces for 7-10 days of drying. After initial drying, the leaves are transferred to a katcha curing barn for 15-20 days until fully dried, including the midrib. Once cured, the leaves are conditioned, tied into hands, and bulked on raised platforms. The bulks are frequently broken and rebuilt over 6-8 weeks, making the tobacco ready for marketing.
Grading of Cigar Filler Tobacco
Cigar filler tobacco is graded based on leaf size, color, texture, strength, burn, and flavor. It is classified into two grades:
Raasi Grade: Uniform brown leaves, thin to medium texture, good size, mild strength, good burning with white ash, and agreeable flavor.
Cruz Grade: Smaller leaves, brown to dark brown color, medium texture, medium strength, burning with whitish-grey ash, and medium flavor.
