At Don Collins, we don't just create cigars; we craft experiences. With a legacy dating back to the 16th century and a commitment to tradition and quality, our cigars embody the rich heritage of Puerto Rican tobacco. From the fertile mountains of Puerto Rico to the skilled hands of our artisans, every step of our production process is meticulously curated to deliver a cigar experience that is unparalleled in taste and craftsmanship. Let's take a closer look at our quality control process and the steps we take to ensure excellence in every cigar we produce.
1. Sourcing the Finest Tobacco
Quality begins with the raw materials, and at Don Collins, we take great care in sourcing the finest Puerto Rican tobacco for our cigars. Our tobacco plants are grown pesticide and chemical-free in the pristine mountains of Puerto Rico, where they benefit from the perfect combination of soil, climate, and altitude. Harvested by local farmers who understand the importance of preserving tradition and quality, our tobacco leaves are hand-selected for their color, texture, and aroma, ensuring that only the best make it into our cigars.
2. Curing and Aging
Once harvested, the tobacco leaves undergo a meticulous curing and aging process to develop their flavor and character. Our master blenders carefully monitor the humidity, temperature, and airflow in our aging rooms to create the perfect environment for the tobacco to mature. This process can take months or even years, allowing the flavors to deepen and the aromas to mellow, resulting in a smooth and balanced cigar that is a true testament to the art of cigar making.
3. Handcrafted Excellence
At Don Collins, we take pride in the fact that our cigars are made entirely by hand in the oldest surviving cigar factory in the Caribbean. Founded in 1506, our factory stands on the site of the ancient Taíno festival, Sik'ar, where the Spanish first discovered the art of cigar making. Passed down through generations of skilled artisans, our time-honored techniques and traditions ensure that each cigar is crafted with precision and care.
4. Stringent Quality Control
Throughout the production process, our cigars undergo rigorous quality control checks to ensure that they meet our exacting standards. From the density of the tobacco fillers to the smoothness of the wrapper leaf, every aspect of the cigar is scrutinized to guarantee consistency and excellence. Our master blenders and quality control experts conduct sensory evaluations and draw tests to assess the flavor, aroma, and draw of each cigar, ensuring that only the finest products bear the Don Collins name.
5. Preserving Tradition
As stewards of a centuries-old tradition, we understand the importance of preserving our heritage for future generations. That's why we remain committed to using time-tested methods and techniques in our production process, ensuring that each cigar carries with it a piece of history and culture. From the cultivation of our tobacco plants to the crafting of our cigars, every step is guided by a reverence for tradition and a dedication to quality.
Conclusion
At Don Collins, quality is not just a goal; it's a way of life. From the fertile fields of Puerto Rico to the skilled hands of our artisans, every aspect of our production process is infused with a passion for excellence and a commitment to tradition. With a heritage that spans centuries and a reputation for uncompromising quality, Don Collins cigars are more than just a smoke; they're a testament to the artistry and craftsmanship of the Caribbean. So the next time you light up a Don Collins cigar, take a moment to savor the flavor and aroma, knowing that you're experiencing the finest in Puerto Rican tobacco tradition.