Cameroon wrappers are some of the most interesting and exotic on the market. Known for a distinctly aromatic and exotic woody flavor, Cameroon wrappers aren’t just a gimmick for odd smokes. Instead, they’ve been used on a number of highly-rated blends, including the 2017 Cigar Aficionado Cigar of the Year, and the Arturo Fuente Don Carlos Eye of the Shark. This 97-rated instant classic gained its unique cedar and cider notes in part from the lush molasses-brown Cameroon wrapper that held the blend together.
Cameroon, for those who don’t know, is a nation on the western coast of central Africa, by the Gulf of Guinea. Tobacco is grown here, as well as leaf from the neighboring country of the Central African Republic is known as Cameroon leaf. Typically, this tobacco is used as a wrapper, but it can show up anywhere, like in the binder of the CAO CX2.
Originally, Cameroon tobacco was grown from Sumatra seed by early colonial planters. Over time, the region went through many struggles, but some like industry legend Rick Meerapfel were determined to keep the tobacco business viable in Cameroon. Thanks to the persistence of those who kept the farms alive, we can still enjoy this special leaf today.
The thing most people remember about Cameroon wrappers is the “toothiness.” This is a reference to the tiny bumps that appear on the leaf. Each bump has a bit of flavorful oil in it, and so a toothy wrapper is seen as a sign of interesting aromas and tastes to come. If you run your finger along a Cameroon wrapper, you’ll feel the little roughness of the bumps. It’s Braille for, “Smoke me. I’m tasty!”
While many wrappers are known for potency, spice, or earthiness, the mark of Cameroon wrappers is the delicate exotic flavors. Blenders have to be careful to find the right place to use a leaf like this, but when they do, it takes good blends and can make them great. Most often, flavor notes relating to aromatic wood are called out, but also cigar fans can taste a variety of gentle spices in the smoke from a Cameroon leaf. It’s an interesting draw to taste, retrohale, and consider as you relax into enjoying a blend.
Cameroon wrappers are on cigars from Rocky Patel, Cohiba, Oliva, Drew Estate, Ashton, and many other premium cigar makers. There’s no doubt about it – it’s a special leaf that lots of leading companies love to work with. It’s a challenge to find out exactly how to fit it into a cigar, but when it’s right, it’s astounding. It can also be something of an acquired taste, so don’t be surprised if your first Cameroon-wrapped cigar takes you by surprise. Grab a few and try them every once in a while, and you’ll soon experience what all the fuss is about.
An exotic leaf from a faraway land – no humidor is complete without a few.
Please browse our selection of cigars with Cameroon wrappers at your leisure.
