"Connecticut" in cigars refers to the wrapper, the outer leaf you see and taste first. Connecticut Shade wrapper is a light tan, silky leaf grown under shade, and it gives a cigar a mild, creamy, slightly sweet character. It's the most popular wrapper for newer smokers and a go-to for anyone who wants a smooth smoke.

This collection also includes Connecticut Broadleaf, a darker, thicker leaf grown in full sun and used for many maduro cigars. So you'll find everything here from the gentlest mild cigars to rich, full-bodied favorites.

Cream swirl in soft smoky light, representing smooth Connecticut wrapper cigars

Connecticut Cigar FAQ

What does Connecticut mean in cigars?

It describes the wrapper leaf. Traditional Connecticut Shade is grown in the Connecticut River Valley under cloth tents that filter the sun, which keeps the leaf thin, light and mild. Ecuadorian Connecticut comes from the same seed grown in Ecuador, where natural cloud cover does the shading. Both give you that smooth, creamy flavor.

What's the difference between Connecticut Shade and Connecticut Broadleaf?

They share a name but taste very different. Shade is light, mild and creamy. Broadleaf grows in full sun, so it's thicker and darker, and it's usually aged into a sweet, rich maduro wrapper. If you like Connecticut Shade and want to step up without losing the smoothness, Broadleaf is a natural next stop.

Are Connecticut cigars mild?

Connecticut Shade cigars almost always are, which is why they're the classic first cigar. Strength also comes from the tobacco inside, though, so a few Shade-wrapped blends land at medium. Broadleaf-wrapped cigars run from medium to full-bodied.

What are the best Connecticut cigars?

For mild, creamy Connecticut Shade:

For the richer Broadleaf side:

What should I drink with a Connecticut cigar?

Keep it light so you don't drown out the cream. Coffee, a latte, Champagne, a light beer or a smooth, lower-proof bourbon all work beautifully, which also makes Connecticut a favorite morning cigar.