Metallica’s James Hetfield’s first venture into the cigar industry proved to be a chart-topper, with the Blackened M81 by Drew Estate joining the ranks of the cigar industry’s best. Hetfield, Blackened master distiller Rob Dietrich, and Drew Estate’s Jonathan Drew team up again to offer another innovative, wildly rich, and tasty treasure trove, the Blackened S84 “Shade to Black” series.
The Blackened S84 Corona is a 5” x 43 jewel that builds on the Blackened M81’s tried and true blend of Nicaraguan and Pennsylvania Broadleaf filler tobaccos and Connecticut Broadleaf binder. The difference here is a bright Ecuadorian-grown Connecticut Shade wrapper joins the Maduro leaves to offer a nuanced, more approachable smoke.
If Blackened M81 “Maduro to the Core” cigars are full throttle headbangers, the Blackened S84 blend is a hard-edged ballad that slows things down while keeping the volume to the max. Pepper, oak, and earth notes are at the S84 Corona’s core. Splashes of nutmeg, cedar, chocolate, cashew, and a tangy sweetness round out a lively yet smooth medium-plus finish.
The Blackened S84 Corona might appear as just another Connecticut-wrapped stick, yet this instant classic still packs a wallop. It is smooth and refined, yet the smoke delivers big-time flavor and body to keep your tastebuds rocking long after the last delicious puff.
