If you’re like me, you’re inquisitive to a fault. So, when someone posed a question about double binders and I wasn’t satifisfied with the answer, I reached out to the professionals to get their take on it. The question was, “What’s the benefit of using a double binder instead of just changing the filler composition?”

Many thanks to everyone that took a moment to reply to my email! I’ve quoted everyone below in the order that I received their responses.

Kyle Gellis, Warped Cigars

“For me the use of double binders has always been about adding further complexity to the blend as well as a combustion factor.

Take, for example, Cocodrilo. Utilizing Habano 2000 and Brazilian Arapiraca, if you were to smoke Cocodrilo with each of these binders singularly in the blend, the complexity is vastly different. If you change the filler to counter it, you lose the soul of the original blend.

By utilizing dual binders, I was able to add additional complexity while maintaining the filler blends’ original integrity.”

I was really curious to hear Kyle’s experience with double binders, especially with the recent addition of Cocodrilo out of La iSLA fresh on my mind. Kyle was also kind enough to share his experience for many long hours during the PCA Tradeshow, and I knew he’d have some insight for us.

Jeremy Casdagli, Casdagli Cigars

“Binders are chosen for two main functions –

• To ensure good combustion when combined with wrapper Leaf (for instance if you have a slow burning wrapper you will need a faster burning binder leaf - and vice versa.)
• To compliment the blend.

So, in our production a double binder is used to ensure both combustion and the blend we are seeking is perfected. After a selection of single binders just isn’t working, sometimes you have to choose a selection of two binders.”

The creation of Casdagli’s Daughters of the Wind Pony Express has always intrigued me. I remembered that this Small Batch exlusive was the first to employ a double binder in the line, yet I wasn’t sure if it was to improve the mechanics of the cigar (since it’s square-pressed) or the flavor profile. Jeremy helped us see that it isn’t always an either/or question, sometimes the answer is both/and.

Nicholas Melillo, Foundation Cigar Company

“Throughout my career, I have predominantly employed a single-binder technique, which aligns with the style of bunching I initially learned. However, in recent collaborations with Pepin and Jaime Garcia on the new Wise Man Corojo and Maduro cigars, we have integrated a double-binder approach. Pepin is a master at this style of bunching which goes along with the traditional en-tubar bunching style from Cuba.  This change has significantly enhanced the complexity and flavor profile of the blend, in addition to the benefits of improved positioning and combustion.

For the new Wise Man series, we utilize binders from Jalapa and Esteli regions, each contributing distinct characteristics as the cigar is smoked. The Esteli binder adds a robust, heavier dimension, while the Jalapa binder offers a lighter, sweeter nuance. The interplay between these binders enriches the smoking experience, allowing the flavor profile to evolve dynamically from start to finish.

It is widely observed that the use of a double binder often results in a blend that transitions smoothly from lighter to more robust flavors or vice versa. Therefore, one of the key advantages of employing a double binder technique is its ability to introduce an additional layer of complexity and nuanced flavors to the blend.”

Nickragua has always been very generous with his expertise, and the recent transition of his Wise Man creations to My Father’s factory (which is known for using a double binder technique) meant that he had some timely knowledge as well. And if there’s one thing I know about Nicholas Melillo, it’s that he never misses an opportunity to soak up knowledge like a sponge. 

Klaas Kelner, Kelner Cigars SAS

“When blending, I focus on making a cigar with a balanced blend, good construction, and an even burn.

Sometimes, due to the size of big cigars, a blender might need to use two half binder leaves to complete the bunch. This is a construction need.

But when people refer to using double binders, they normally refer to using two different varietals that will provide unique flavor combinations.

However, the most important thing to take into consideration is how these extra tobacco binder leaves will affect combustion. The thickness and oiliness of these tobaccos in combination with the wrapper and filler leaves need to work well together so the cigar aficionado can have a good smoking experience with no burn issues.”

I was also curious to get an assessment from the factory level. What can someone tell us about the use of double binders that is solely involved with the daily creation of cigars? I love his focus on construction and performance. Say one thing about Klaas, say he’s practical!

Final Thoughts

Once again, many thanks to everyone that responded to my inquiry and for all the wisdom that was shared! The cigar industry is richer for each of these Gentlemen that constantly illuminate a hobby that’s all too often shrouded in mystery.

If you have other questions that you would like answered, please email me at [email protected] or drop a comment below!