GTO has been making and growing tobacco and cigars for over 147 years. A premium representation of what they make is what Dr. Rodriguez calls perritos. The English word would be “little dogs”. It’s nothing more than the leaf that’s been aged. He takes it off the rafter, hangs it, and pulls it. He wraps and folds that leaf for smoking. The purpose is to understand the harvest to understand its properties. Dr. Rodriguez says it isn’t an enjoyable smoke at all, but it is an important step in the GTO process and the essence and flavors are captured in that moment.

147 Years of Cigar Excellence with GTO Founder & CEO Dr. Oscar Rodriguez

GTO grows piloto, san Vicente, criollo, olor, and even Connecticut. They have their broadleaf grown themselves and their farm, which separates GTO from the rest. They are vertically integrated.

The top of the cigar is called the head, the shape is called the vitola, and the bottom is the foot. There are also three primary shades of cigars. Tan-looking ones are Connecticut, reddish-looking ones are Corojo and the darker Maduro.

GTO only uses premium tobacco. So when you buy a GTO, you get ultra-high, super premium. Tobacco has aged, and Dr. Rodriguez creates the blends. A blend is stored in his dossier and goes into a vault.

Dr. Rodriguez says some people smoke for power, some people want a kick, but the majority of smokers are looking to calm down. It’s a way of lowering the blood pressure and enjoying and savoring the moment. Every single part is celebrated.

For the most part, 147 years doing the same thing the same way every single time — It’s magical.