Everything You Need To Know About Candela Cigars
It only takes one glance to know a Candela cigar isn’t like the others. That unmistakable green wrapper? It’s not dyed. It’s the result of a fast, high-heat curing process that locks in chlorophyll—something no other cigar wrapper does.
Once wildly popular in the U.S. (it dominated shelves in the 1950s), Candela has become more of a niche favorite in modern cigar culture. But its unique flavor and visual appeal continue to attract a dedicated following.
Whether you’re curious about that green wrapper or looking for something lighter but different, here’s what you should know about Candela cigars—and where to find them in Erie, PA.
Candela cigar from Tatuaje
Candela tobacco leaves
What Makes a Candela Wrapper Different?
Candela wrappers are cured quickly using intense heat, sometimes called flash-curing or flame-curing. This process halts fermentation early and preserves the green hue of the leaf. More importantly, it gives Candela cigars a flavor profile that stands apart.
Expect notes of fresh-cut grass, green tea, sweet hay, and even a hint of sugarcane. The smoke is usually cool, mild to medium in body, and distinctly aromatic. It’s a throwback in the best way.
Because of their mellow yet unusual profile, Candela cigars often surprise people. They aren’t bland—they’re just not operating on the same spectrum as Maduros or Habanos.
Why Some Smokers Love Candela Cigars
Candela cigars appeal to those who want something outside the norm. They’re subtle without being boring, sweet without being cloying, and mild without sacrificing interest.
For smokers who value smoothness and novelty, Candela is a great change of pace. It’s also a smart pairing for green teas, floral gins, or grassy bourbons. Some seasoned smokers keep a few on hand specifically for midday or springtime smoking—when heavier cigars feel out of place.
And let’s be real: there’s something satisfying about lighting up a cigar that makes people do a double take. The visual alone sparks conversation.
Why Others Pass on Them
Candela isn’t for everyone. Some cigar smokers find the flavor too grassy, or they associate the green wrapper with being old-fashioned. The mildness can also be a letdown for those who crave spice or depth.
There’s also less variety. Since fewer manufacturers focus on Candela, the market isn’t as wide or easy to navigate. You’re more likely to see them as specialty releases than mainstays in most shops.
But when a Candela is done right, it’s a refreshing alternative—and absolutely worth exploring.
Noteworthy Candela Cigars to Try
While the category isn’t huge, there are a few standouts that consistently perform:
Illusione 88 Candela
Balanced and flavorful. Sweet hay, toasted bread, and just enough pepper to keep it interesting.
La Flor Dominicana Double Claro
A more full-bodied Candela with grassy, nutty, and creamy notes.
Fuente 8-5-8 Claro
A classic take. Mellow and smooth with soft cedar and green tea tones.
Black Market Filthy Hooligan by Alec Bradley
Seasonal release with a barber-pole design—Candela intertwined with Nicaraguan wrapper. Rich, bold, and surprisingly complex.
Where to Find Candela Cigars in Erie, PA
For cigar lovers in Erie, PA, The Brig Cigar Lounge is the place to check. While Candelas aren’t always stocked year-round like other wrappers, The Brig regularly carries limited runs like the Filthy Hooligan and often brings in boutique Candelas from brands like Illusione or Arturo Fuente.
Candela cigars aren’t mainstream anymore, and that’s exactly what makes them worth trying. They offer a fresh, clean profile that’s light on strength but full of character. If you’re open to something different, light up a Candela and take a break from the expected. You might just find your new favorite cigar—and in Erie, The Brig is a solid place to begin that journey.
