The Blackened S84 Robusto from Drew Estate smokes like a leather jacket feels - rugged exterior hiding surprising complexity. This Nicaraguan puro comes boxed in 20-count bundles with a 5" x 50 Robusto frame. Priced at $209 per box, it's positioned as a premium daily smoke for Maduro lovers transitioning to smoother Connecticut Shade profiles.
The initial draws hit with espresso bitterness balanced by Connecticut's signature creaminess. Smoke output stays moderate - no thick plumes here. Retrohales reveal white pepper that lingers longer than most Shade-wrapped cigars.
Pennsylvania Broadleaf takes over, introducing damp earth and dark chocolate notes. Burn line stays razor-sharp without touch-ups. Watch for gradual nicotine buildup - by mid-point you'll feel it behind the eyes.
Leather and cedar dominate as the Shade wrapper's sweetness fades. Tar accumulation becomes noticeable past the band point. Most smokers stop here unless chasing that full-on Maduro throat catch.
The double caps hold firm through punch cuts. Wrapper oils transfer to fingers - a good sign of proper humidification. Box date tracking matters here; these need 6+ months rest to tame the Broadleaf's initial rough edges.
Works best for evening smokers wanting Maduro flavors without 2-hour commitment. Not ideal for Connecticut purists - the Nicaraguan core cuts through the Shade wrapper's subtlety. At $10/stick, it's priced as an upgrade from factory smokes but under Liga Privada territory.
