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.
Examples
CAO America (both BL and Conn. Shade)
Other Versions
Costa Rican – much earthier than the other versions. Try the Bucanero Canon Cubano Maduro.
Pennsylvanian – used in a few cigars including the Big Butt maduro and the OneOff Du Mondi.
