Two weeks ago we reviewed Miami 8&11 from Padilla Cigars. Today it’s Luck of the Irish, as the 888 Claro is green.

This cigar brand has been available for many years now but you won’t find it in many shops. That’s not because it’s not a good cigar but because of its unusual appearance. The wrapper is technically referred to as a “Candela” wrapper. Candela tobacco leaves are flue-cured or heat cured to fix the chlorophyll levels in the leaf and produce the desired green color.

The 888 Claro is handcrafted by Illusione in Honduras. It measures in at 6 ¾ X 48. The wrapper is derived from a Habano seed and the filler tobaccos are from Nicaragua.

Before lighting this cigar, one wonders if this green wrapper will taste good. Well, let me tell you that several years ago I didn’t care too much for Candela wrapped cigars, but today it’s a different story. The grade of Candela wrapper being used in premium cigars has improved tremendously.

The cigar begins with a slight hint of grass and cream. The draw is flawless and the construction is very good. The flavors of wood, vanilla and spice also make an appearance. The cigar does not burn hot. The volume of smoke is nice and dense. This cigar is very balanced. I would consider this cigar a mild to medium strength cigar, making it great for my afternoon tea. Other Candela wrapped cigars worth a try are the Arturo Fuente 858 Claro and The Graycliff Emerald.

Stay tuned for our next cigar in just a couple weeks.

Relax & Enjoy.