Quick Answer
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Crossword clue: “Signature export of Cuba”
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Answer: CIGAR – 5 letters
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Clue number and direction: 2 Across
The New York Times crossword clue “Signature export of Cuba” is answered with CIGAR in 5 letters. In the grid, it appears as CIGAR across.
Why CIGAR Is the Right NYT Answer
Cuban cigars are world-famous and widely regarded as one of the country’s most iconic exports, so CIGAR matches “signature export of Cuba” almost literally. The clue is singular (“export”), which points to a singular noun like CIGAR rather than “cigars” or “tobacco.”
In the February 12, 2026 NYT Mini, the 2-Across entry is confirmed as CIGAR, and its five letters align perfectly with all crossing Downs (MIMED, AGAVE, RAZES, GREEK, CAL), which locks the answer in.
What CIGAR Means
A cigar is a tightly rolled bundle of cured and fermented tobacco leaves that is lit and smoked, typically associated with premium or luxury smoking. Cuban cigars, in particular, are known for high-quality tobacco and craftsmanship.
So the clue simply leans on that reputation: when people think of a “signature export of Cuba,” they immediately think of a Cuban cigar, making CIGAR the natural answer.
Solving Tips for Similar NYT Clues
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When you see “signature export of [country],” think about the most stereotypical product linked to that place (e.g., CIGAR for Cuba, WINE for France, CARS for Germany) and then check letter count.
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Watch singular vs. plural: “export” (singular) → CIGAR; “exports” (plural) would more likely be CIGARS or another plural noun.
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Use crossings: even if you’re unsure, patterns like C_G_R or _IGAR will quickly narrow down to CIGAR.
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Remember that NYT Minis prefer widely-known cultural associations, not obscure trade data.
How CIGAR Fits the Grid
For 2-Across, the Mini provides a five-square slot, which matches CIGAR exactly. Pattern-wise, you fill:
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CIGAR(C‑I‑G‑A‑R)
Each letter is supported by a crossing Down answer (MIMED, AGAVE, RAZES, GREEK, CAL), so once you drop CIGAR in, all the intersecting entries still make valid words. That full cross-check is your confirmation that CIGAR is correct.
Other Ways CIGAR Might Be Clued
CIGAR shows up often in crosswords with clue styles like:
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“Smoker’s roll”
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“Humidor item”
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“Stogie”
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“Cuban export”
All of these tap into the same idea of cigars as a classic, recognizable product.
Complete February 12, 2026 NYT Mini Answers Today (Across & Down clues and answers)
Here are the key answers from the February 12, 2026 NYT Mini to help you complete the grid:
Across
| Clue | Answer | Letters |
|---|---|---|
| Tequila cocktail that often comes in a salt-rimmed glass, casually | MARG | 4 |
| Signature export of Cuba | CIGAR | 5 |
| Bowl over | AMAZE | 5 |
| Flood regulator | LEVEE | 5 |
| Classroom station | DESK | 4 |
Down
| Clue | Answer | Letters |
|---|---|---|
| Acted without saying anything | MIMED | 5 |
| Desert plant used in tequila production | AGAVE | 5 |
| Demolishes | RAZES | 5 |
| Language from which we get “cosmos” and “democracy” | GREEK | 5 |
| Berkeley campus, for short | CAL | 3 |
