Drew Estate's Liga Privada 10 Aniversario Robusto arrives as a box-pressed 5½"x54 Nicaraguan powerhouse celebrating the brand's decade milestone. This full-bodied stogie comes in boxes of 10, rocking a dark Mexican San Andrés Maduro wrapper that feels slightly oily to the touch. At about $18.50 per stick, it's positioned as a special occasion smoke rather than daily driver material.
The cold draw punches with barnyard earthiness. Initial lighting reveals espresso grounds and bitter chocolate dominance. Smoke production stays moderate despite the large ring gauge, leaving a peppery tingle on the back palate.
Burning into the second third, roasted almond notes surface through the cocoa barrage. The draw tightens slightly around the box-press edges, requiring occasional touch-ups. A distinct leather element develops alongside wood char undertones.
The last third brings unexpected sweetness - think molasses-laced black coffee. Nicotine kick becomes noticeable at this point, though less punishing than typical Nicaraguan puros. Burn line stays relatively even when properly humidified.
This anniversary blend plays best for fans of dessert-style maduros who don't mind occasional touch-ups. The box press feels more cosmetic than functional, and the price positions it as a weekend warrior rather than daily driver. Not quite reaching Padron Anniversary levels of refinement, but stands as a worthy celebration smoke when you want that Drew Estate dirtiness dialed up to eleven.
