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Last updated on 05/07/2025 | Reading time approx. 03:48min
Various base tobacco varieties are used in hookah tobacco. The most common tobacco varieties are Burley and Virginia. But what exactly is the difference between these variants?
Virginia base tobacco forms the foundation for most hookah tobacco varieties. Typically, a Virginia tobacco of Class 1 is used here. This tobacco is very suitable for hookah beginners as it has low to medium nicotine content and simultaneously a high sugar content. Due to the high sugar content, the base tobacco already has a certain sweetness that is also reflected in the flavor of the final product.
Virginia tobacco is a light tobacco that was originally produced in South America but is now cultivated worldwide. Even in Germany, primarily in Bavaria.
Burley tobacco originated from a mutation of the Virginia tobacco plant. The leaves of the Burley tobacco plant are brown, and cultivating these plants is more labor-intensive than, for example, Virginia tobacco plants. The growing regions for Burley tobacco are more limited than for Virginia: It is primarily cultivated in the USA, Canada, Uganda, Central America, and Indonesia.
After the base tobacco is harvested, it first needs to dry. Virginia tobacco is typically dried using hot-air systems, while Burley tobacco is usually air-dried. In the next step, the tobacco is washed and dried again. The more frequently this process is repeated, the milder the tobacco will taste in the end. After washing the tobacco, glycerin, sugar, and flavors are added to the base tobacco to create the finished mixture for hookah tobacco. This is thoroughly mixed and left to rest so the liquids can be absorbed by the tobacco.
In our hookah shop, you'll find the finished hookah tobacco - whether you're looking for Virginia or Burley hookah tobacco!
Virginia tobacco is mild, slightly sweet in flavor, and low in nicotine – ideal for beginners. Burley tobacco, on the other hand, is stronger, contains significantly more nicotine, and has a more robust natural taste – better suited for experienced hookah smokers.
Virginia tobacco is better suited for beginners. It has a lower nicotine content, a sweet flavor, and provides a pleasant smoking experience without intense effects.
The flavor is influenced by drying, washing, and the addition of flavorings. The more a tobacco is washed, the milder it becomes. The type of drying and the choice of aromas also play a decisive role.
Virginia tobacco is grown worldwide, including in Germany. Burley tobacco primarily comes from the USA, Canada, Uganda, Central America, and Indonesia, and is more demanding in terms of cultivation.
