Issue: Cigar Aficionado, Jan 01, 2015

Score: 91

No one could deny that Drew Estate is a major player in the world of cigars, but in the company's early years it was easy to dismiss them as nonserious cigar producers. Drew Estate was known for being a major player in the world of flavored (they call them infused) cigars, specifically the brand ACID, which sold in the millions of units but left cigar connoisseurs scratching their heads. The image of Drew Estate changed forever when the company released Liga Privada, a full-bodied, handmade, premium cigar powered by dark tobacco leaves, including a thick and oily broadleaf wrapper grown in the Connecticut River Valley. The cigars are hot items in cigar stores, often on back order, and they appeal to those who like strong smokes. The Belicoso has notes of white pepper, hints of charcoal, raisins and some chalky notes.

Issue: Cigar Aficionado, Dec 01, 2014

Score: 91

This solidly rolled belicoso gleams with oil and draws perfectly. Rich woods and dark-roasted espresso bean notes are balanced by molasses and cumin. Complex and interesting.

Issue: Cigar Aficionado, Dec 01, 2013

Score: 89

A near-black belicoso that produces a lot of smoke from the foot as it burns. Leather notes, white pepper flavor and sweet raisin intonations develop charcoal flavors that leave behind a chalky aftertaste.