Oriental type Tobacco leaves- Basmas
Tobacco was introduced to Europe from the Americas, specifically from the Bahamas, coinciding with Christopher Columbus's exploration in the 15th century. By the mid-16th century, Portugal and Spain cultivated tobacco, followed by its introduction to the Ottoman Empire via Istanbul in the late 16th century. In Greece, systematic tobacco cultivation began in the 19th century, particularly in regions like Chrysoupoli, Genisea, Drama, and Kavala. Tobacco's significance is evident through trade records, postcards, advertisements, and especially the architectural legacy of tobacco warehouses, key artifacts of industrialization in 19th-20th century Greece.
The cultivation, processing, and trade of tobacco played a crucial role in the economic and banking development of certain Greek cities. It drove commercial activities while integrating refugee populations from Asia Minor and Eastern Thrace into the labor market. Through export processes and interactions with foreign traders, tobacco significantly boosted revenue streams and fostered broader economic and social development. This multifaceted growth laid the foundation for strong ties between local production and international commerce.
Tobacco is an agricultural product cultivated in Greece since around 1820. The plant, belonging to the Solanaceae family, includes about 50 species and can grow up to 180 cm depending on its variety and growing conditions. Cultivation likely spread to Greece from Asia Minor and Pontus, initially taking root in Eastern Macedonia before expanding nationwide. The growth of tobacco production is intricately tied to Greece's historical evolution, influenced by events such as the annexation of Thessaly (1881) and the resettlement of refugees from Asia Minor, which enriched the industry with knowledge and labor.
The varieties of tobacco that flourished in Greece, classified under Oriental-type tobacco, include:
- Basma Bagli
- Black Argos
- Samsun
- Saria
- Aromatic Argos
- Tsebelia Agrinio
- Zichno Aromatic
- Black Thessaly
- Basma
- Kampa Koulak
- From Trapezounta
These varieties highlight Greece's diverse regional production, catering to different flavor profiles and quality standards.
The classification of tobacco varieties grown in Greece is based on their qualitative characteristics:
1. **Aromatic Tobacco**: Includes premium varieties like Basma from Xanthi and Macedonia, and Zichnomyrodato, known for their superior quality.
2. **Flavorful Tobacco**: Examples include Katerini tobacco, enhancing cigarette combustibility, flavor, and aroma.
3. **Neutral Tobacco**: Such as Kampa-Koulak and Black Agrinio. These lack strong aromas but improve cigarette filling and smoking pleasure when blended.
(Source: Flevaris & Rententzi, 2014)
Basma Tobacco—a prominent type of Oriental tobacco—was primarily cultivated in Eastern Macedonia and Thrace, as well as in areas around Smyrna, Samsun, and Bafra near the southern coast of the Black Sea. Its name derives from the Turkish word Basmak, meaning "to press," reflecting its processing method: leaves are classified by size and color, then tightly pressed together until they nearly stick. Renowned for its exceptional quality, Basma was a global export leader until the 1980s, later overshadowed by Virginia varieties. Despite its reduced production, it remains integral for premium cigarettes and cigars.
Oriental vs. Virginia Tobacco
Oriental leaves are naturally sun-dried, preserving distinct flavors, unlike Virginia leaves—primarily grown in the U.S.—which undergo artificial hot-air curing. This distinction enhances the unique aroma and taste of Oriental varieties.