The craft of combining leaves of different origins, primings, and ages so that the resulting cigar has the intended strength, aroma, burn, and development. Blenders work by rolling test cigars, smoking them, and adjusting one variable at a time.
Why it matters
Blending balances flavor against physics: a blend that tastes right but will not burn or draw is a failed blend regardless of how it smells.
In context
"Blending took two years and something like ninety trial cigars before they settled."