Redefining a Wrapper: The ICC x German Engineered Cigars Connecticut Lancero

Redefining a Wrapper: The ICC x German Engineered Cigars Connecticut Lancero

For over a century, the Connecticut wrapper has stood as the symbol of subtlety in the cigar world—creamy, approachable, and often the first step into the world of premium cigars. But at ICC, we’ve never believed that subtle should mean simple. And neither does German Engineered Cigars.

After nearly two years of collaborative development, we proudly introduce a project that breaks the mold:
The ICC x German Engineered Cigars Connecticut Lancero.

This exclusive release is more than a cigar. It’s a redefinition of what a Connecticut can be—built on a foundation of innovation, German precision, and Nicaraguan soul. Developed using the Raum Zeit platform, the cigar delivers the fullest-bodied Connecticut smoking experience we’ve ever encountered, without ever losing the refinement expected from its namesake.

🛠 The Blueprint: A Blend with Global Depth

To understand why this cigar is so unique, you have to start with the blend itself. Each component has been meticulously selected not just for balance, but for its role in shaping an aromatic experience that evolves with every draw.

Wrapper: Nicaragua – Connecticut Shade
Unlike the more commonly used U.S.-grown Connecticut leaf, this wrapper comes from the volcanic soils of Nicaragua. Grown under shade, it offers the same silkiness and elegance as its Connecticut Valley cousin, but with a richer, earthier core. The flavor is less grassy and more toasted almond—allowing it to serve as a frame, not a filter.

Binder: Indonesia – Sumatra
Sumatran tobacco has long been prized for its elasticity and ability to hold a blend together both structurally and in terms of flavor. Here, the Sumatra binder adds a touch of dry spice and a savory backbone that plays perfectly with the sweetness of the wrapper and the richness of the filler.

Filler: Nicaragua – Jalapa & Dominican Republic – Piloto
Jalapa tobacco is known for its smooth, sweet characteristics and gentle floral tones. When paired with Dominican Piloto—a stronger, more peppery varietal—you get a dynamic interplay of power and finesse. The Jalapa softens the edges, while the Piloto adds structure, body, and a deep mineral tone that carries through the retrohale.

🧠 Aromatic Experience: A Journey in Motion

German Engineered Cigars describes the cigar’s profile as
“Traveling at the speed of light, far beyond the next galaxy, while a friendly android serves cake.”

And while that may sound cosmic, it’s not far off from what you’ll experience with this blend.

Let’s break it down:

First Third – Clean Launch

From the first light, you’re greeted with a smooth wave of cream, cedar, and faint white pepper. The Connecticut wrapper delivers on its promise of softness, but there’s something unexpected under the surface—a slight salinity and toasted cashew note that hints at what’s to come. Retrohale reveals a citrus zest and chalky minerality that cleanses the palate.

Second Third – Mid-Orbit Complexity

This is where the cigar opens up. The Jalapa sweetness intensifies, combining with herbal complexity and warm baking spices—think cinnamon stick, nutmeg, and anise. The Piloto shows its power here, bringing in a rounded pepper and dark honey note. The body is medium-plus by this point, but never overwhelming.

Final Third – Gravity and Return

As the cigar narrows to its final act, the binder and filler take center stage. Sumatran spice returns, now deeper and more pronounced, alongside roasted espresso bean, caramelized sugar, and aged wood. A steady pulse of retrohale pepper adds clarity, finishing strong but balanced.

📦 Presentation & Availability

The cigar comes dressed in a striking co-branded band—bold ICC red fused with German Engineered’s modern industrial aesthetic. It’s minimal, clean, and speaks to the precise engineering behind the project.

Packaged in 20-count boxes, this exclusive is only available at Industrial Cigar Co. Quantities are limited, and with anticipation building, we don’t expect them to last long.

🔍 Final Thoughts: Why This Cigar Matters

This project is a statement. It proves that a Connecticut wrapper, when paired with thoughtful engineering and bold intent, can move beyond mild and into something much more complex. Much more rewarding.

Whether you’re a veteran smoker looking for a fresh take on a classic wrapper or someone who typically skips over Connecticut blends altogether, this release demands a second look.

It’s refined. It’s innovative. And most importantly—it’s ours.

Available June 6th exclusively at Industrial Cigar Co. during First Friday. Come early, light one up, and see how far a Connecticut can go when you refuse to stay grounded.