Connecticut Broadleaf, unlike Connecticut shade, is grown in full sun, where the leaf gets thick and full of sugar. The plant is stalk cut instead of primed. Usually earthy and toasty with a subtle sweetness, this wrapper is certainly one of the most popular in the last few years. This leaf is grown in many countries and is the primary type used in Maduro cigars. The word “Connecticut” in the tobacco’s name refers to the valley, not the state.
The Connecticut River Valley runs north from Hartford, Connecticut, through the middle of Massachusetts, and touches the Vermont/New Hampshire border (excerpt from this article). This sun-grown plant is the most popular leaf for Maduro cigars, but was often overlooked by manufacturers and cigar smokers alike. The shade-grown wrappers from the same region generally get the majority of the attention, not to mention the best fields. Broadleaf wrappers also don’t present the best appearance, often bulging with thick veins. So why do farmers persist in growing the Connecticut Broadleaf, and why do some smokers swear by it? Connecticut Broadleaf may not be much to look at, but the charm is all in the intense flavor it can pack.
Connecticut Broadleaf has long been used for machine-made cigars, but lately premium cigar makers have been turning to Broadleaf for the flavorful qualities it possesses. General Cigars, Avo, and other major brands are now starting to market broadleaf maduros, and they’ve already been a hit worldwide. Maduro cigars typically include either broadleaf wrappers from Connecticut or Mexican wrappers. You can identify a Connecticut Broadleaf wrapper quickly though by looking at its texture: if it’s oily and veiny, chances are you’re smoking Connecticut Broadleaf.
Examples
- Ashton Aged Maduro
- CAO America (both BL and Conn. Shade)
- Onyx Reserve
- Pioneer Valley Especiales
Other Versions
- Ecuadorian Connecticut Broadleaf – used in EP Carrillo New Wave Connecticut Short Run
- Connecticut Broadleaf Viso – featured in the Liga Privada Feral Flying Pig
- Costa Rican – much earthier than the other versions.
- Pennsylvanian – used in a few cigars.
This post was initially published at Zen & The Art of the Cigar, a cigar reviews blog. Click here for more articles by Zen and more information.
