Backwoods – Authentic Flavoured Cigars

HISTORY

The Backwoods brand was first created in the USA nearly 50 years ago. It was first formed as a reaction to new advertising laws that had been overseen by President Nixon. These laws prevented the advertisement of cigarettes on television and radio, a move which was set to have a big impact on the tobacco industry. Manufacturers hoped to circumvent these new laws by instead marketing ‘mini cigars’ which had been unaffected by the ban.

The makers of Backwoods had carefully viewed trends in the market. They knew what the customers wanted, a sweet cigar that was a throwback to the cigars of the old west. That is why aesthetically Backwoods resemble the iconic cigars smoked by Clint Eastwood in Sergio Leone’s classic Dollars trilogy.  Rough around the edges, all natural, these were designed for outdoorsmen, hence the name Backwoods. Little did they know that the brand would become internationally synonymous with Americana.

Throughout the 1970s and 80s Backwoods were prominent, advertised everywhere they became an instant classic. By the 90s they had become synonymous with Rap and Hip Hop culture, being referenced in countless songs by artists such as the late, great Notorious B.I.G to contemporary artists such as Drake. 

These pop culture references would have potential customers in the UK clambering to get their hands on these prized cigarillos, but to no avail. It wouldn’t be until well into the 2000s that they would become available to British shoppers.

PRESENT DAY

The demand for these cigars has only increased over the years, becoming one of the most popular flavoured cigar brands globally. Although the landscape of the market has changed, Backwoods remain the same (apart from the greater range of flavours now on offer). In 2020, Backwoods were the third highest selling cigar brand in the USA. 

It must be noted that when compared to contemporary brands, Backwoods still have the best flavour retention. This is all thanks to their moisture content being “just right”. To keep these cigars optimal they are sold in a foil packet that is easy to reseal. This prevents them from becoming dry and ragged at the ends.

The contents within a Backwoods cigar are sourced from the Dominican Republic, whilst the wrapper leaf is grown in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Once harvested, the special Broadleaf wrapper is aged for 12 months. After this year long maturation period, through natural processes the wrapper leaf releases its natural richness. This is another key factor in the popularity and success of Backwoods.

Despite their rustic hand rolled appearance, Backwoods are in fact machine rolled. Currently a host of intriguing flavours are on offer and we intend to cover them all in the following blog.

BACKWOODS

AUTHENTIC

Out of the extensive Backwoods range on sale today, one flavour has been there from the start. A true American classic, Sweet Aromatic Flavour (or Authentic as it is now known) is the genuine article. With all the regular trappings of a Backwoods, the Sweet Aromatic differentiates itself by being the mildest of all the flavours on offer. 

The scent of these cigars will wisp you away to a time of simple childhood joy, the sweet essence being impossible to exactly put a finger on whilst being seemingly so familiar. Whilst being smoked subtle notes of creamy vanilla and fudge-like tones can be attained. Some also compare the taste to that of a pleasant cookie dough mixture.

BACKWOODS

BLUE

These cigars have been on the market for a while now, becoming many people’s go-to Backwoods. A Cloying sweet aroma is quick to garner the attention of those in your immediate surroundings, for all the right reasons.

Backwoods Blue’s essence is akin to a genuine Madagascan Vanilla, an idyllic velvet smoothness being prominent from the moment one is lit. The sweetness is present without being overpowering, unlike many of the contemporary vanilla cigars on the market.

A Backwoods Blue cigar always retains its flavour throughout the process of being smoked, all the while providing you with gratified sugared lips. These cigars are a great option for those looking to dip their toes into flavoured cigars for the first time.

BACKWOODS

PURPLE

A later addition to the Backwoods range, Honey Berry is the most pronounced flavour on offer. This flavour is definitley tailored to those looking for the highest intensity of sweetness available.

By combining a mixture of different berry flavours with their lauded honey, Backwoods have created something truly unique. As soon as the seal on the foil wrap packet has been broken, a wave of summer fruit and syrupy sweet honey tones are quick to be acquired.

Upon removing one of the cigars from the packet and appreciating its aesthetics, you will notice the perfect moisture of the wrapper leaf. Not too dry, not too wet. When it comes to the berries utilised in the production of this flavour, Backwoods are not forthcoming.

Many fans of this flavour say they can pick out ripe and fresh blueberry, blackberry and strawberry hints. Whatever berries have been used, the result is truly delightful. The gourmet golden honey flavour is the piste resistance, helping to accent the naturally sweet characteristics of the berry medley.

BACKWOODS

CARIBE

Tobacco and rum have been well acquainted since their respective discoveries by the western hemisphere.

Caribe flavour is one of the more recent additions to reach our shores. Since its arrival it has recieved a popular reception. The first thing to note when opening the packet is the warm, boozy aroma that tempts the smoker with its saccharine undertones. Next, when placed to the lips the rich and decadent alcohol is immediately present in the cigar.

Once lit the truly decadent nature of these cigars becomes clear. The smooth rum notes don’t taste like that of the many cheap imitation ‘rum’ flavoured cigars on the market. Rather, Backwoods Caribe rewards the smoker with its relaxing character born from the idyllic combination of quality tobacco and rum.

Like all Backwoods, the 12 month aged wrapper leaf adds to the complexity of the cigar and its rustic tapered appearance aids it’s easy draw nature. Never a chore to smoke, the Caribe will smoke effortlessly until it is finished, allowing you to bask in its glory.

It is without a doubt that any fan of flavoured cigars will be left with a sunny disposition after enjoying a Backwoods Caribe.