Drew Estate Liga Privada UF-13 Dark
Thanks to Steve for sending me a few cigars to try. I am a big fan of the Liga Privada lines. The T52 and No. 9 are on my list of favorites. These cigars are limited, with quite a bit of fanfare. You can read more about that on the Drew Estate website. Steve contacted me, and simply wanted my opinion. I looked forward to the opportunity, so here we go!
Wrapper: Connecticut Broadleaf
Binder: Brazilian Mata Fina
Filler: Honduran and Nicaraguan
Size: 5.5 x 52
Price: Around $14.00
Pre-Smoke & Construction:
The wrapper was flawless. It even glistened when I held it to light. It had odors of cedar, earth, and barnyard. The cigar was evenly packed, and bounced back when squeezed. The draw had some resistance, but fell within my tolerances. The pre-light draw had flavors of leather, dark chocolate, and cedar.
The ash held for an inch, and the burn required a few corrections.
Flavor:
The first third started off with a strong blast of pepper. It wasn’t unpleasant, but for the faint of heart, it could be a problem. Dark, musty earthiness, wood, and bitter notes accompanied the pepper.
The second third kept the same peppery punch, along with wood and earthiness. There were notes of strong espresso from time to time. The smoke feel was almost gritty, and left me craving water. As I approached the end of this third, things started to calm down and smooth out.
The last third ramped back up. No smoothing out or calming down. There was a welcome addition of dark chocolaty notes. This mixed well with the flavors I mentioned before.
Conclusion:
My description may not paint this cigar in the best of light. But, make no mistake, this was a very good full bodied smoke. The flavors were bold and satisfying. For those of you who don’t like pepper, it may not be for you. As for me, I really enjoyed everything the UF-13 brought to the table. If I had to complain, it would be the $14.00 asking price. Otherwise, I think this is a cigar that holds it’s own, and is worth trying.
