This week on The Cigar Authority we welcomed to the show Willy Herrera from Drew Estate to the show where we talked about his rise in the industry and the art of cigar blending. As we chatted we smoked the Herrera Esteli Brazilian Maduro which is part of The Cigar Authority Care Package. As has become customary following the show we offer a more detailed review of the cigar smoked.
Cigar Review: Herrera Esteli Brazilian Maduro
Wrapper: Brazilian Mata Fina
Binder: Connecticut Broadleaf
Filler: Nicaragua
Size: 6″
Ring Gauge: 52
Size: Toro Especial
The Look: Packaged in 25 count boxes the Herrera Esteli Brazilian Maduro features an aquamarine, white and gold band that boldly states Herrera Esteli by Drew Estate. In the hand the cigar is firm with no soft spots or voids of tobacco. The Mata Fina wrapper has a subtle velvet like feel to it and a brindle like coloring with a lot of thin veins throughout the leaf.
The Notes: Once the cap is clipped the cigar offers subtle notes of cashews, pepper and leather while the aroma from the foot has a subtle red pepper aroma to it. Once the cigar is lit there is a floral aroma and taste to the cigar.
As we move into the first third there are notes are reminiscent of the mix for hot cocoa (without the marshmallows) and a subtle floral components. As the cigar moves deeper into the first third some cedar begins to develop while the retrohale offers a touch of red pepper with a long leathery finish.
As we begin the second third the cocoa powder notes have left the building as the cigar offers up a floral component with continued cedar and leather. The retrohale of the Herrera Esteli Brazilian Maduro is now loaded with pepper causing me to sneeze relentlessly and as the second third some subtle cocoa sweetness returns. The finish remains long and leathery.
As we finish up the cigar that was part of The Cigar Authority Care Package there notes are cedar, while the retrohale remains loaded with pepper and the cigar has a long leathery finish.
The Finish: This one caught me by surprise as it was pretty strong cigar. I expected something with notes of coffee as well as being more floral. Once I adjusted my mindset I found the cigar to be enjoyable but it would probably be even more enjoyable after a hearty meal. I picked up a few and plan to smoke one have grilling some steaks on the grill this weekend.
Score: 91
Price: $9.99 / $193.99
Herrera Esteli Brazilian Maduro
Herrera Esteli Brazilian Maduro Foot
Herrera Esteli Brazilian Maduro Burn
