Quick Smoke: Drew Estate Undercrown Shade Robusto

Each Saturday and Sunday we’ll post a Quick Smoke: not quite a full review, just our brief take on a single cigar.

My colleague reviewed the Gran Toro size of the new Drew Estate Undercrown Shade (a cigar we exclusively revealed) a few days ago and called it a “well-constructed standout smoke at a reasonable price.” Today, I’m smoking the the Robusto (5 x 54), which also features an Ecuadorian wrapper, Sumatran binder, and Nicaraguan and Domincan filler. The cigar is mild- to medium-bodied with cedar, sweet cream, and just a hint of spice, plus some lingering vegetal notes. It’s not nearly as balanced or complex as the Herrera Estelí, which was also blended by Willy Herrera, but it is still a solid smoke with flawless construction.

Verdict = Hold.

–Patrick S

photo credit: Stogie Guys