With Alejandro Turrent, fifth generation of the Turrent Family. By The Cigar Academy
The Cigar Academy is taking us to fabulous Mexico, to explore the extraordinary terroir and the rich culture and tradition of Mexican tobacco in the San Andrés Valley, guided by the Turrent family, pioneers of Mexican tobacco since 1880.
The Unique Terroir of San Andrés
San Andrés' success as a tobacco-growing region is deeply tied to its unique terroir.
San Andrés tobacco, grown primarily in the fertile valley of San Andrés Tuxtla in Veracruz is one of the world’s most revered tobacco-growing regions, renowned for producing some of the finest premium tobacco in the world, prized for its distinctive flavor, balance, and quality.
In the words of Alejandro Turrent, fifth generation of the Turrent Family:
“Historically, the region's tobacco tradition dates to the Olmecs and Aztecs, who used the plant in ceremonies, medicinal and social practices.
However, it was during the colonial period and the subsequent arrival of Cuban immigrants that the cultivation of premium tobacco took root in San Andrés.
Over the centuries, the techniques for growing, curing, and fermenting tobacco have been refined, making the region a global powerhouse for tobacco production.
San Andrés' unique terroir, shaped by volcanic eruptions that enriched the soil with minerals, gives the tobacco leaves a rich, earthy flavor profile that is sought after by cigar makers and aficionados alike.
The altitude (300 meters above sea level), humid climate and consistent rainfall, combined with centuries of expertise in tobacco cultivation, create the ideal conditions to produce tobacco with deep, complex flavors, that is versatile and used in all aspects of cigars—from wrappers to binders and fillers.
One of the most prized varieties from our region is the San Andrés Negro.
The leaves are known for their dark, oily texture, developed through a slow fermentation process that enhances their complex and bold flavor profile. The tobacco offers rich notes often described as full-bodied yet deliciously smooth.”
The Turrent Family: Pioneers of Mexican Tobacco
For over five generations, the Turrent family has been at the heart of the Mexican tobacco industry.
Their story begins in 1880 when Don Alberto Turrent arrived in the San Andrés Valley from Cuba, bringing with him a passion for tobacco farming.
Since then, the Turrents have been instrumental in shaping the region's reputation for producing world-class tobacco.
One of the Turrent family’s most celebrated ventures is Casa Turrent, a brand that exemplifies their commitment to tradition and innovation.
Founded by Alejandro Turrent, Casa Turrent cigars are a tribute to the family's legacy and the rich history of Mexican tobacco.
These cigars have garnered widespread acclaim for their balanced flavors and masterful blending, showcasing the versatility of San Andrés tobacco.
The Turrent family is also known for their collaboration with international brands, such as their work with Altadis and the production of Te-Amo cigars that use San Andrés tobacco.
These partnerships have helped elevate Mexican tobacco to new heights, cementing its place in the global cigar market.
