Welcome to our specialized selection of Candela cigars, a category defined by its striking chlorophyll-green appearance and unique curing process. Often referred to as "Double Claro" or "AMS" (American Market Selection), these cigars offer a departure from the traditional brown hues of air-cured tobacco. Our collection focuses on high-quality green wrapper leaves sourced from renowned growing regions, providing enthusiasts with a distinct smoking profile characterized by herbal notes, fresh hay, and a gentle sweetness that is difficult to find in darker varieties.
Understanding the Candela Curing Process
The vibrant green color of a Candela wrapper is not a result of the tobacco variety itself, but rather a specific, high-heat curing method. While most tobacco leaves are air-cured over several weeks to allow chlorophyll to break down and sugars to ferment, Candela cigars undergo a rapid "fire-curing" process in specialized barns. By quickly raising the temperature, the moisture is pulled from the leaf in about 72 hours, locking the chlorophyll into the veins and surface of the tobacco before it has a chance to turn brown.
This preservation of the natural plant pigments results in a leaf that is thin, delicate, and incredibly smooth. Because the fermentation process is intentionally shortened for the wrapper, the resulting smoke lacks the heavy spice or earthiness found in a Maduro or a sun-grown leaf. Instead, you will find a profile that is crisp and clean, making these mild cigars a favorite for morning sessions or as a palate cleanser between heavier blends.
Ecuadorian Leaf and Honduran Blends
Our inventory features Ecuadorian leaf wrappers and Honduran blends that showcase the versatility of the green wrapper. Ecuador has become a primary hub for producing high-grade Candela due to its consistent cloud cover and volcanic soil, which produce leaves with minimal veining and a silky texture. When these wrappers are applied to Honduran blends, the result is a balanced experience where the grassy sweetness of the wrapper complements the woody and nutty characteristics of the filler tobacco.
For those who enjoy a lighter experience, exploring our Connecticut Wrapper collection can provide a similar level of approachability, though the Candela remains unique for its specific vegetal and tea-like aromas. The interaction between the unfermented green leaf and the aged long-filler inside creates a complex dynamic that appeals to both novice smokers and seasoned aficionados looking for a change of pace.
The History of the Green Wrapper
While they may seem like a modern novelty to some, green cigars were actually the dominant preference in the United States from the late 1940s through the 1960s. During this era, the American Market Selection was the gold standard for freshness. While tastes eventually shifted toward the richer, darker profiles found in a Sumatra Wrapper or traditional Broadleaf, the Candela has seen a significant resurgence among boutique manufacturers and hobbyists who appreciate its nuanced flavor profile.
Flavor Profile and Tasting Notes
When you light up one of our Candela cigars, the first thing you will notice is the aroma. Unlike the pungent, peppery scent of a Dark Leaf tobacco, Candela emits a fragrance reminiscent of green tea, cedar, and dried grass. On the palate, the herbal notes are front and center. You may detect hints of mint, white pepper, and a subtle creaminess that lingers on the finish.
Because these are generally categorized as mild cigars, they do not overwhelm the senses. This makes them an excellent pairing for light beverages such as green tea, pilsners, or a delicate white wine. The thinness of the green wrapper also means it burns quickly and evenly, providing a consistent flavor from the initial light to the final third.
Why Choose Candela Cigars?
Unique Aesthetic: The bright green hue stands out in any humidor and serves as a great conversation piece.
Mild Strength: Ideal for those who prefer a low-nicotine experience without sacrificing flavor complexity.
Distinctive Aromas: Offers a break from the traditional "tobacco" scent, leaning more toward botanical and floral notes.
Smooth Finish: The lack of heavy fermentation in the wrapper results in a smoke that is rarely harsh on the throat.
Sourcing and Quality Control
We take great care in sourcing our Candela cigars to ensure the wrappers are handled with the precision they require. Because the green leaf is thinner and more brittle than a fermented leaf, storage conditions are critical. We maintain our collection at optimal humidity levels to prevent the delicate Ecuadorian leaf from cracking, ensuring that every cigar arrives in perfect smoking condition.
Our selection includes various vitolas, from traditional Robustos to longer Churchills, allowing the smoker to decide how much of the green wrapper influence they want in their session. A thinner ring gauge will emphasize the herbal notes of the wrapper, while a larger ring gauge allows the filler Honduran blends to play a more prominent role in the flavor profile.
Exploring Related Tobacco Varieties
If you find yourself drawn to the lighter, more nuanced side of tobacco, we recommend browsing our Mellow collection. For those who appreciate the structural integrity of these wrappers but want a bit more body in the filler, our Virginia Blend options offer a natural sweetness that pairs beautifully with the vegetal qualities of a green leaf.
Conversely, if you are looking for a stark contrast to the Candela experience, our Full Flavor section contains robust, deeply fermented tobaccos that sit on the opposite end of the spectrum. Understanding the difference between these curing methods is key to developing a sophisticated palate and discovering exactly which leaf types suit your personal preferences.
The Future of Candela in the Boutique Market
In recent years, boutique blenders have begun experimenting with Candela in "barber pole" configurations—intertwining the green leaf with a darker leaf like a Maduro. This creates a visual and flavorful contrast that highlights the best of both worlds. While our current Candela cigars focus on the pure expression of the green wrapper, we are constantly monitoring the market for innovative uses of this traditional curing technique.
Whether you are a long-time fan of the "Green Dragon" or a newcomer curious about the herbal notes and mild cigars of the mid-century era, our collection provides a comprehensive look at what this unique tobacco has to offer. By focusing on quality Ecuadorian leaf and expertly constructed Honduran blends, we ensure that your experience with Candela is both authentic and rewarding.
Tips for Smoking Candela Cigars
To get the most out of your green-wrapped cigar, we suggest a few specific steps:
Cut Carefully: Use a sharp guillotine cutter. The brittle nature of the flash-cured leaf can flake if the blade is dull.
Light Gently: Avoid using a high-powered torch flame directly on the foot. A soft flame or a cedar spill will prevent scorching the delicate wrapper and preserving the light herbal notes.
Smoke Slowly: Candela tobacco burns slightly faster than oily, fermented leaves. Slowing your draw will prevent the cigar from getting too hot, which can turn the grassy sweetness into a bitter char.
Explore our full range of Candela cigars today and discover why this historic wrapper style continues to hold a special place in the world of fine tobacco. From the vibrant color to the refreshing flavor profile, it is a category that every enthusiast should experience at least once.
