Drew Estate's Undercrown Maduro Toro Tubo brings serious heft in a 6x50 Toro format, wrapped in that signature oily San Andrés Maduro leaf. The aluminum tube keeps it camera-ready for on-the-go smokers while protecting the box-pressed parejo shape. Let's break down why this Nicaraguan puro keeps showing up in humidors worldwide.
Cold draw serves damp earth and baker's chocolate. Initial puffs explode with espresso bitterness softened by brown sugar sweetness. Smoke production hits medium-plus - decent output without fogging up the room. Ash holds tight for 1.5" despite me powering through draws.
Brazilian filler takes center stage: think overripe plum and black cherry compote. Transition sneaks in cedar notes that mingle with the persistent coffee grounds aroma. Watch the burn line here - Nicaraguan ligero can cause minor canoeing if rushed.
Maduro magic happens past the band. Cocoa powder and charred oak dominate, with a sneaky red pepper tingle on retrohale. Smoke turns creamy but demands slower pacing to avoid tongue bite. I nub it at 45 minutes with zero harshness - impressive for this price tier.
Best suits smokers who want Liga Privada adjacent flavors without the wallet burn. Newbies appreciate its approachable strength curve, while veterans dig the well-executed Maduro fundamentals. Skip if you prefer subtlety over in-your-face chocolate/coffee bomb.