The following was published on CigarAficionado.com
A visit to the grand and unique Nicaraguan factory where Liga Privada, Undercrown, Blackened and many other cigars are made.
Drew Estate is one of the major producers of handmade cigars in Estelí, the cigar capital of Nicaragua. Co-founded by Jonathan Drew, who first started selling cigars in New York City in 1996, the company makes a host of handmade cigars in a vibrant and large factory here appropriately called La Gran Fabrica Drew Estate. This is where such cigars as Liga Privada, Undercrown, Herrera Esteli and Blackened are made, along with many other brands. It’s a massive operation that’s always defined itself by being different.
Cigar Aficionado went inside during the Puro Sabor Festival to tour the facility and bring you closer to this intriguing operation. Here are some snapshots of the day.
An unusual approach. As a final step for these Flying Pigs, a finisher uses a small screwdriver to chase out any jagged pieces of tobacco that might protrude from the foot. It’s an extra step to ensure that these plump pigs have a pristine appearance.
Graffiti in the gallery. Street art on almost every wall gives Drew Estate’s rolling room an edgy vibe. It evokes New York City, where the company was founded nearly 30 years ago. Brands such as Herrera Estelí, Undercrown and Blackened are all produced in this room.
In the Liga Room. Drew Estate’s flagship brand, the spicy Liga Privada, is rolled in a separate room that is considerably cooler and dryer than the rest of the factory. Liga’s wrapper is so thick that it would absorb extra unwanted moisture otherwise.
Bales and bales of tobacco. A massive warehouse loaded with nearly 50,000 bales of tobacco from all over the world is the fuel that powers this large operation. Drew Estate doesn’t grow its own tobacco, so the company is constantly purchasing inventory to fuel its facility.
Time to head home. At the end of the day, after everyone has left, a stray worker standing outside the colorful walls of Drew Estate walks to her motorbike, a common mode of transportation in Estelí. Like the many other workers, she’ll be back tomorrow, one of the many people here making cigars in one of Nicaragua’s most interesting factories.
Asia Marketing Services represents Drew Estate in Asia.
