A cigar’s wrapper influences the experience of a cigar greatly. The wrapper doesn’t just dictate the outer appearance of the cigar, it can contribute as much at 10% of the flavor of the cigar. Some wrappers are oilier than others, some are thicker than others, some are lighter colors, and each of these factors contributes to the taste and smoking experience of a cigar.
The basic colors of cigar wrappers was covered in a separate article at TotallyCigars.com which was titled The Cigar Color Spectrum. This article will focus on how each shade of wrapper affects the flavor of a cigar. Below are a few of the most common types of wrappers, along with how each contributes to cigar flavor.
- Double Claro
- Claro
- Colorado
- Maduro
- Oscuro
The Double Claro wrapper has a somewhat sweet taste and makes for an enjoyable smoke. Double Claro cigars are not as popular as they once were, and are becoming difficult to find.
The Claro is one notch darker on the color scale than the Double Claro, and has a tan hue. Claro wrappers are grown in the shade, and are very mild compared to most wrappers. Cigars with Claro wrappers are excellent for beginning smokers, or anyone who enjoys a mild cigar.
Colorado wrappers are also grown in shade which produces a thin leaf. These wrappers will provide a fuller body to a cigar, and will be stronger than claro and double claro wrappers.
Maduro wrappers range from brown to almost black in color. If you choose a maduro wrapped cigar, expect a smooth, full bodied smoke with a bit of sweetness.
Oscuro wrappers are picked from the very top of the tobacco plant. As a result, they are very dark in color, nearly black. Oscuro wrapped cigars are very strong, and some might find the smoke harsh and spicy. This is a wrapper mostly enjoyed only by experienced smokers. Beginners will want to avoid the Oscuro wrapper.
These are just a few of the most popular types of wrappers you can find in cigar stores today. The only way to find out which wrapper you prefer is to try them all.
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