@drewestatecigar is quite honestly one of the largest names in the cigar industry. So when Willy Herrera was brought in and made the master blender back 4 years ago, you knew he must be very skilled at what he does. His Esteli #Norteno has been a staple cigar in the #DrewEstate line-up ever since. The name Norteno some believe is in reference to its Mexican (northern) San Andres wrapper; which contains Honduran binder and a complex combination of Esteli and Jalapa Nicaraguan filler. With the Nicaraguan national bird, the Guardabarranco, soaring across the band, this cigar definitely flies high on my list.
The #Norteno rich brown wrapper is a beautiful contrast against its green and beige band but gives very little aroma prior to lighting; keeping its notes a mystery. With a punch, the ventilation is satisfying allowing you to get a full pull. It takes a little time to pick up distinct flavors but within a quarter of an inch I am picking up an earthiness/grassy flavor along with subtle ground coffee notes.
The ground coffee turns sweet giving it more of a cocoa profile. There’s a small amount of red pepper on the retro. The second half really is where you want to be. The sweetness picks up along with pepper and tobacco notes. Complexity develops and gives you a nice array of flavors. A cigar that starts off meek and mild is now on full display.
Unlike most cigars, the final 3rd isn’t aggressive and punchy. Instead, it smooths out and gives a nice buttery finish. The pepper remains on the exhale but isn’t as obvious on the inhale. Instead, the sweetness is followed by light leather and cream. Lastly, the earthy notes are quite savory, lingering on your palate until the next pull. Ultimately, I would call this the “every man’s” cigar. No matter your typical preference, this cigar somehow satisfies. That’s no easy feat. Cigars are as unique as fingerprints so to find one that fits many taste buds is something worth applauding.
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