Wrappers A-Z: Connecticut Broadleaf

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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.

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4 thoughts on “Wrappers A-Z: Connecticut Broadleaf

  1. Are there any tobacco farms still active in the river valley

  2. As a resident of the CT valley,in MA though, I have to correct you. This area is Western Massachusetts. We take pride in that distinction. Central MA is Worcester or Wustah.

  3. Probably the latest stellar Connecticut Broadleaf star is THE TABERNACLE, by Foundation Cigars. It’s my #1 COTY and I’ll bet it is #1 on several other yearly lists, too

  4. Love maduros

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