Connecticut Broadleaf wrappers are earthy, rich, and flavorful, with a hint of sweetness on the finish. They’ve been used to help create outstanding world-class blends like the legendary Drew Estate Liga Privada No. 9, the Cigar Aficionado #3 Cigar of 2015 CAO Flathead, and the 95-point Rocky Patel Sun Grown Maduro.
You can recognize Connecticut broadleaf wrappers by their dark brown color. This comes as a result of the months-long fermentation process that turns broadleaf from green tobacco to a mature (or “Maduro,” in Spanish) and complex leaf. The process of preparing broadleaf is quite different from Connecticut shade tobacco, which is quickly cured to a light brown color and used in blends right away. Shade tobacco, as the name indicates, is grown under partial shade cover, and is raised from a different type of seed than broadleaf. Broadleaf, on the other hand, drinks in the sun and grows large and strong. After that point, it is tamed through the fermentation process.
For those who love Connecticut broadleaf wrappers, it’s this process that makes the leaf so delicious. Broadleaf tobacco is piled up into stacks known as pilones, which allow the leaf to heat up and ferment, sweating out and releasing noxious ammonia and other compounds. The leaf is carefully monitored to maintain the proper temperature and humidity levels. Too much fermentation can “burn out” the leaf, while the correct amount is part of the art of fine cigar making.
Connecticut Broadleaf wrappers are a notoriously hard leaf to “tame,” but for those who figure it out, the flavors can be incredibly rewarding. While many cigar makers had shied away from using broadleaf in the past, it has become a favorite of several blenders who have found a place for it in their stogies. If you’re a fan of earthy, chocolatey, and savory flavors in your cigars, these are blends you should put on your wish list.
Please browse our selection of cigars with Connecticut broadleaf wrappers at your leisure.
