Drew Estate's Factory Smokes Maduro Robusto throws down the gauntlet in the budget cigar arena with its 5"x54 parejo shape. This Nicaraguan puro wrapped in oily maduro leaf carries enough muscle to make diesel mechanics blush, yet stays gentle enough for lunch break smokes. At under $2 per stick in 25-count boxes, it's the blue-collar worker of cigars - no frills, all function.
First Third: The initial puffs hit with burnt coffee grounds and black pepper spice. Smoke production stays modest - no giant plumes here. Ash holds decently for a budget stick, about 3/4" before dropping.
Middle Third: Cocoa powder emerges through the Nicaraguan twang. Retrohale brings out charred oak notes. Draw opens up slightly, though some stems in the filler create occasional resistance.
Final Third: Sweetness intensifies into molasses territory while maintaining earthy undertones. Smoke turns warmer near the nub with developing pepper spice. Expect moderate nicotine kick by this stage.
Rolled in Drew Estate's Estelí factory alongside their premium lines, these use lower priming tobaccos from Jalapa Valley farms. The San Andrés wrapper gets minimal processing - just enough fermentation to classify as maduro without losing rustic character.
Burn line stays mostly even without frequent corrections. Smoke time averages 45 minutes. Pair with black coffee or bourbon to complement the earthy profile. Not a flavor bomb, but delivers better consistency than most sub-$3 cigars.
