Cigars 101: Differences in Cigar Wrappers
By Mariana Heredia
Variety connotates to cigar making, ranging from different blends and flavors to choose from the wrappers are no different. Being the only directly visible tobacco leaf, the wrapper is often the focus of attention from enthusiasts. The wrapper’s appearance will say a lot about a cigar as the tobacco will develop a particular color due to the cultivation, curing, and aging processes. Therefore, each master blender is always looking for the perfect combinations and ideal wrappers to hold it together. With many types of cigar wrappers to choose from, we forget the difference between each and what makes them special. Let’s look at the difference between the types of cigar wrappers.
Connecticut Cigar Wrapper
One of the most notable wrappers and is well-known as being the most significant American-sourced wrapper for cigars. Several iconic cigars are rolled with these wrappers, such as Ashton, Arturo Fuente, and Macanudo. Unsurprisingly, Connecticut cigar wrapper leaves are sourced from the Connecticut River Valley. This region is a core part of America’s tobacco-growing industry. You’ll recognize these wrappers from their lighter shade, often a golden-brown color. However, there are different types of wrappers that fall under the Connecticut name, such as the Broadleaf or the Shade.
La Flor Dominicana (LFD) Suave Gobernador
La Flor Dominicana Suave Gobernador is a Gordo-sized cigar in LFD’s very first blend. In fact, this is the only “light” cigar to come out of this brand’s portfolio.
Strength: Mild
Country: Dominican Republic
Wrapper: Ecuador Connecticut
Liga Privada T52 Robusto
Liga Privada T52 Robusto by Drew Estate is a medium to full-bodied cigar perfected over the course of two years. It features a Connecticut River Valley Stalk Cut & Cured Sun Grown Habano wrapper with a Brazilian binder and Honduran and Nicaraguan filler tobaccos.
Strength: Medium to full
Country: Nicaragua
Wrapper: Connecticut, Habano, Sun Grown
Corojo Wrapper
The Corojo is a slightly darker cigar wrapper than Connecticut. Known for its pepper and spice, it was actually originally grown in Cuba. Following the embargo, it was moved to be primarily grown in Honduras. Varieties of Corojo are also grown in other Central American nations using hybrid seeds, to help grow in environments that are less ideal than their original Cuban source.
La Aurora Preferidos Gold Doble Figurado Tubos
La Aurora Preferidos/1903 Edition Gold Corojo Doble Figurado Tubos No. 2 is the medium-to-full body version of this world-renowned perfecto-shaped cigar. Each cigar ages patiently in rum barrels for at least one year.
Strength: Medium to full
Country: Dominican Republic
Wrapper: Dominican Corojo
Rocky Patel The Edge Corojo B52
Rocky Patel The Edge Corojo B52 is a full-bodied Gordo cigar with a 5-year-aged Honduran Corojo Maduro wrapper, a Nicaraguan binder, and Nicaraguan filler tobaccos.
Strength: Full
Country: Honduras
Wrapper: Corojo, Honduras, Maduro
Habano Wrapper
Habano wrappers also originate from Cuba but are now grown in countries like Nicaragua and Ecuador. Notably darker, Habano wrappers also produce a stronger aroma and intense flavor. Its profile is described as a blend of earthy spices, leather, wood, and coffee beans. Habano wrappers are often part of cigars with more complex tastes. That’s not to say they’re bad for beginners, though!
VegaFina Fortaleza 2 Capa 20
VegaFina Fortaleza 2 Capa 20 is a 50 x 5 1/2″ Gran Robusto calling out your name. It gets its name from the 20 years of aging that the wrapper leaves experience.
Strength: Medium
Country: Dominican Republic
Wrapper: Habano Mexico San Andres
Davidoff Nicaragua Box-Pressed Robusto
Davidoff Nicaragua Box-Pressed Robusto is a strong, full-flavored cigar worthy of your time. It features a Nicaraguan puro consisting of a Nicaraguan Habano Jalapa binder, Nicaraguan filler, and a gorgeous Nicaraguan Habano Oscuro wrapper.
Strength: Full
Country: Dominican Republic
Wrapper: Habano Nicaragua
Maduro Wrapper
Unlike the other cigar wrappers, Maduro isn’t necessarily based on a country of origin or even the specific type of leaf used. Maduro means “ripened” or “matured.” Therefore, Maduro wrappers are those using aged leaves that undergo a natural fermentation process that results in a stunning dark brown leaf. Because of their aging, they tend to carry richer and more complex flavors. The specific type of leaf used dictates the final product, though not any leaf can be a Maduro wrapper. Only those who have the rigor to sustain through years of the aging process qualify.
La Aurora 107 Maduro Belicoso
La Aurora 107 Maduro Belicoso is a medium to full body cigar. This flavorful blend is a celebration of 107 years of excellence and mastery. The company released this collection in 2010 to honor the brand’s 107th anniversary.
Strength: Medium to full
Country: Dominican Republic
Wrapper: Connecticut Broadleaf Maduro
La Flor Dominicana (LFD) La Nox Toro
La Flor Dominicana (LFD) La Nox Toro is a super-premium smoke that redefines artistic expression in the cigar industry! Vincent Van Gogh’s signature even inspired the logo’s font.
Strength: Full
Country: Dominican Republic
Wrapper: Brazil Maduro
Essentially speaking these are all perfect cigar wrappers to choose from. However, the best one really depends on personal preferences whilst smoking. Still unsure of which type of cigar wrapper to choose from? Reach out to Cigar Country via the contact form.
About Cigar Country
Located in the heart of the Dominican Republic’s tourist region (halfway between Punta Cana and Santo Domingo), our Megastore in La Romana is by far the largest premium cigar store in the Caribbean. Our 2,000+ square feet humidor features the finest handmade Dominican cigars from the most respected manufacturers in the world. Cigar Country’s Experts will guide you through the VegaFina cigar-making experience and assist you in choosing the right cigar for you. Whether it’s for your personal consumption or gifting, we have the widest selection you will ever find at the best DUTY FREE prices. You will feel at home in our cozy lounging areas and notoriously friendly staff. Hope to have you visit soon. You can also call, chat, or email to contact Cigar Country!