Photo Credit: Cigar Emperor Ltd

Cameroon, Sumatra, Connecticut, Habano, Candela, etc. Are just exotic names to sell a product, or do they really make a difference in the flavor of the cigar. What’s in it? What about the heart and muscles of the cigar?

In addition to subtly contributing to the nuance of the cigar, the aesthetics and origin of the wrap is also used as a marketing tool to attract customers, and like everything, in the end it is only a personal preference that determines that you decide on a type of packaging or another. So if you fancy a deep brown, velvety, oily texture with a sweet taste, then you’d go for a Maduro, but if you prefer a lighter color with a fine thickness and light flavor, then you go for a Connecticut.

On the contribution of the layer to the nuance and aroma of tobacco, there are many conflicting opinions, basically on whether or not it is the determining factor in the taste of the cigar. The truth is that the anatomy of a tobacco is made up of filler, binder and wrapper, and the combination of these three elements, among the hundreds of varieties that exist, is what will define the characteristics of each cigar in its entirety. Each part contributes its share, all melting in the combustion and penetrating with the air current in our palates, who will finally be in charge of appreciating the flavor of the mixture… something personal and non-transferable.

Some say that the layer contributes between 70% or 90% of the taste and others say that only 5% to 20%. My humble opinion guided by common sense is that – since there are so many types of layers and taking into account the different factors that influence it, from its cultivation to its aging, such as the climate, the soil, altitud, etc.- there are layers with more strength than others, therefore, one will influence more than another in the final taste of the cigar; But from there to say strictly that it contributes 72.3% or 6.4%, I do not think it is consistent. In fact, there are layers so light that they are known as ‘transparent’.

All this media war about flavors, textures, aromas, and exotic origins of the various cigar wrappers, is nothing more than the fight to keep the tobacco market active and growing, and the major brands can thus set trends to maintain theirs supremacy. That’s okay, because that way we can appreciate new sensations from time to time. But do not let yourself be hypnotized, all the recipes are good as long as they are prepared with a passion and natural knowledge.

Certainly the layer contributes something important to the cigar, a perfect finish that, when rolled with passion and professionalism, instantly transmits the quality of what you are about to enjoy… just by look and touch.

Of course we can not ignore the aftertaste that leaves on our lips and especially when we get a cold draw. It cannot be denied that the wrapper is an essential part of the flavor of the cigar, even when it does not have a taste (Transparent), that is what it gets you, lack of taste to leave the way open to the appreciation of the pure inner blend.

Basically the difference between layers is due to the level of exposure to the Sun and its aging. Those grown in the sun are darker, stronger, greasy and sweet in flavor, those grown in the shade are mostly lighter in color, thinner and lighter in flavor.

Well, you know, experiment and get your own conclusions, that’s what it’s all about, trying new blends to share with fellow aficionados so you can recommend other good based options. Just remember, don’t let the marketing wrap you up!

I hope you feel satisfied, you are always welcomed to share your experiences in our forum.