Cuba's best tobacco-growing area is in the Vuelta Abajo, part of the Pinar del Rio region area in western Cuba. In general, Cuban tobacco is strong and full-bodied, with spicy and aromatic flavors. It is also renowned for its suppleness. Most factories of premium hand-rolled cigars are located in or near Havana, the capital city. The quality and variety of cigar tobacco from the Dominican Republic has improved enormously in the past 20 years.
Most Dominican tobacco is derived from Cuban seed varieties.
Although not as strong, it is quite full-flavored and lends itself to the creation of unusually complex blends. In each case, the tobacco usually seems milder and less robust in strength and flavor than the originals. Its wrapper colors fall between Connecticut and Cameroon, and its silky texture has visual appeal. Both countries produce a full-bodied tobacco with strong, spicy flavors and heady aromas. Mexican leaves are used widely as binder and filler in cigars.