A cigar wrapper plays a key role in the experience of a cigar. Prior to selecting and smoking a cigar, it is helpful to know and understand how different wrappers influence the smoke. There are a number of variations of cigar wrappers and each provides a unique experience. Could you determine what makes a Claro different from a Maduro wrapper or explain the properties of a Colorado wrapper? Here, we break down each wrapper type and explain how it contributes to the experience of the cigar in order to give you a better idea of what to select for yourself.

Oscuro: This wrapper type is made from leaves that grow at the very top of a tobacco plant. These dark wrappers generally have a stronger taste and may be considered a bit harsh to a first time smoker. This type of wrapper is more widely preferred by seasoned cigar smokers.

Double Claro: Light green in color, the Double Claro wrapper has a somewhat sweet taste and makes for an enjoyable smoke.  However, these wrappers have fallen out of use somewhat and are thus hard to find.

Colorado: Grown in shade to produce a thinner leaf, the Colorado wrapper can be brown, with a bit of red thrown in.  Usually, these wrappers are somewhat strong when you use butane torch lighters or other flame producers to light them.

Claro: Different from the Double Claro, this wrapper is also grown in the shade and has a tan hue. The most distinct difference in the Claro wrapper is that, generally, it is more mild in comparison to most other wrapper types.

Maduro: Providing an extremely smooth smoking experience, the Maduro wrapper ranges in color from brown to black. The benefits of a lengthy curing process are brought out during the lighting and smoking of a cigar in this style of wrapper as it is very smooth.

Obviously, we have not covered every style of cigar wrapper available. There are many other variations including, for expample, Colorado Maduro wrappers, Colorado Claro wrappers and many more. We have chosen here to examine some of the more unique or more widely available cigar wrapper styles. Choosing your cigars based on wrapper style is as important as selecting cigar size and method of lighting. Knowing the basics of wrapper styles can contribute to a more enjoyable smoking experience.