Blackened M81 Corona | Selected by Cigar Aficionado 2023 #7 Cigar Of The Year – Rated 95
What happens when a cigar industry icon, a rock star, and a whiskey maker go in together on a cigar project? You get Blackened M81 Corona, that’s what happens! More than 2 years in the making, this project was destined for big things from day one. It has long been a regular routine for Metallica frontman James Hetfield and master distiller Rob Dietrich of Blackened Whiskey to enjoy cigars together. It just so happened one day that Dietrich decided to introduce Hetfield to his good friend, none other than the legend himself, Jonathan Drew. Words were exchanged, plans were made, and the rest is history. M81 was born, a legendary smoke produced at the world famous La Gran Fabrica Drew Estate in Nicaragua. This blend consists of a hearty filler blend containing Nicaraguan and Pennsylvania Broadleaf tobacco. The variety of Pennsylvania Broadleaf used here is known as Green River One Sucker, and it’s one of the strongest tobaccos on the planet. For a binder, Drew went with a Connecticut River Valley Broadleaf, and the wrapper is, of course, a dark and oily Mexican San Andres Maduro leaf. “Maduro to the Core” is the name of the game, and oh boy, this one lives up to its slogan. Instant success was achieved, as no less than five 90+ ratings have already been dealt to the brand in Cigar Aficionado, including a pair of stellar 95s.
The packaging is what you would expect for a cigar of this stature, including modern, upscale black and gold boxes and bold, yet simple bands on each vitola, the brand name in black and white and the M81 insignia highlighted in bright gold. Construction is impeccable, as one would expect from a Drew Estate cigar, lending to an easy draw and massive smoke production. Blackened M81 starts off with a smooth and mellow woody flavor, but soon gains intensity as white pepper and cayenne become apparent. The earthy core holds everything together, and sweet hints of black cherry and cocoa linger in the background. The finish is smooth and spicy, with just a touch of sweetness on the tip of the tongue. Complex, full-bodied, and beautifully balanced, this cigar is easy to recommend to just about anyone that loves strong, old-school maduro style cigars. The Corona provides a great way to get acquainted with the blend, coming in at 5” x 43 and offering a strong, flavorful take on the flavor profile.
While Blackened M81 will certainly appeal to any lover of dark, rich sticks, this one is really for the experienced. A seasoned pallet, an appreciation for a well-balanced flavor profile, and a good tolerance for vitamin N are all necessary to truly enjoy this rock star package. M81 pairs well with whiskey, of course, but also goes well with dark beer, coffee, or even port wine. Fans of the legendary Drew Estate Liga Privada will definitely enjoy this one, as well as anyone drawn to stout maduros such as Partagas Black or Camacho Triple Maduro. The M in the name hints at Metallica, and the 81 refers to the year the band was founded. Are you bold enough to try a true rock star’s cigar? Try a Blackened M81 Corona and find out for yourself what heavy metal music would taste like if you could smoke it!
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