Long-time enthusiasts can attest to the evolution of the Connecticut Shade wrapper. Whether grown in the U.S., or abroad in Ecuador, the once mainstay of the cigar-making trade has been reborn, reinventing itself for the modern audience. 

Beginning with CAO Gold, this handmade was among the first released by the once pipe tobacco label during their rebranding as a purveyor of premium cigars. The Man O’ War Virtue is wolf in sheep’s clothing: the Nicaraguan Ligero beneath its golden Shade wrapper creates full, complex flavors without excess strength. Alan Rubin took Connecticut seeds and transplanted them in fertile Honduran soil, resulting in the rich and creamy Alec Bradley American Classic. And finally, Montecristo White Series is the most popular line extension because it brings a creamier take on the classic blend, yet still appeals to all enthusiasts for its richness and consistency.

Each Connecticut Collector’s Sampler II contains:

5 x CAO Gold Churchill (7.0”x48) – ‘91’ rated

5 x Man O’ War Virtue Torpedo (6.5”x52)

5 x Alec Bradley American Classic Toro (6.0”x50) – ‘90’ rated

5 x Montecristo White Series Rothschilde (5.0”x52) – ‘91’ rated