Connecticut Cigars
A Connecticut cigar is a cigar wrapped in a Connecticut Shade wrapper, known for its smooth, mild, and creamy flavor profile.
These wrappers are typically light golden-brown and are cultivated under large cloth canopies to protect them from direct sunlight, which results in thin, silky leaves. While often grown in the Connecticut River Valley, they are also cultivated in other regions like Ecuador that have a similar climate.
Characteristics
Flavor: Connecticut wrappers are prized for their mild and mellow taste, often featuring notes of cream, cedar, nuts, and a touch of sweetness. They are an approachable choice for both new and experienced smokers and are often paired with coffee.
Cultivation: The leaves are grown under large canopies of cheesecloth of nylon to filter the sun, producing a thinner, more subtle leaf with fewer veins compared to sun-grown tobacco. This makes the wrapper more delicate and requires skilled handling during production.
Types: The term ‘Connecticut’ can also refer to Connecticut Broadleaf, a darker, more robust tobacco grown in the open sunlight, which is often used for maduro cigars. However, the most common association with a ‘Connecticut cigar’ is with the lighter, milder Connecticut Shade wrapper.
Origin: While traditionally associated with the Connecticut River Valley, similar shade-grown tobacco is also produced in Ecuador to meet the demand for this type of wrapper.