Drew Estate's Factory Smokes Sweet Robusto rolls into the budget cigar scene like a mechanic with a sweet tooth. This 5x54 parejo comes packed 20 to a box, wrapped in Connecticut Shade leaf with that signature sugar-kissed cap. Nicaraguan and Dominican fillers deliver approachable medium strength that won't intimidate newbies. The hand goes to the cigar smoothly - construction's better than its price tag suggests, though you might spot the odd irregular seam.
First Third: Immediate sugar rush hits the lips - think honey straight from the squeeze bottle. Creamy smoke carries mild cedar notes, the kind that makes you check if you're really smoking a sub-$5 stick. Ash holds decently despite the bargain-bin price.
Middle Third: Sweetness dials back to let nutty flavors through. Almond skins and roasted corn emerge, though the honey coating keeps clinging like that friend who always wants "just one more drink." Watch for occasional tunneling - keep the lighter handy.
Final Third: Leather and dry earth take center stage as the sweetener burns off. Nicotine punch stays mild enough for afternoon smoking. Some batches develop slight bitterness - when it happens, just put it down with an inch left.
Esteli's factory floors birth these Nicaraguan puros, blending local fillers with Dominican leaf for balance. The Connecticut wrapper gets that sugar glaze treatment pre-roll - a move that divides purists but wins convenience store regulars. Burns cleaner than most budget sticks, though don't expect Davidoff-level consistency.
