On A Roll

Ernesto Perez-Carillo, Jr.’s memories of Cuba are steeped in smoke and stained with tobacco. “I left when I was seven. I was so impressed by my dad’s tobacco farms; we used to go there every weekend. His factory was one of the best-known in Cuba,” Perez-Carillo reminisces. Today he proudly continues the family legacy that began in 1948. In homage to his father, the El Credito Cigar Company has been outfitted with Cuban style mahogany rolling tables, humidors, and cabinets. “Times have changed, but we try to keep the atmosphere that my father had in his factory,” states Perez-Carillo.

To share this smoky heritage, the factory is opening its doors to the general public for the La Gloria Cubana Super Roll. Amateur cigar rollers will be armed with high quality tobacco, a chavete blade, and matches to light their handiwork. Perez Carillo himself will supervise, counseling the competitors as he does with the roleros in his employ. “It is an art form. Some people have the knack for it; other have two left hands. I always say, play with the leaves. Feel them. Let the tobacco talk to you,” he advises. The competition begins this afternoon at 2:00 with a lesson from the professionals. The elimination finals are Sunday, and aficionados are welcome to watch the craftsmanship. Call 877-523-9945.
Feb. 10-12