Herrera Esteli by Drew Estate Norteno

You’re probably not familiar with the map of Nicaragua, even though you might enjoy its products on the regular. No problem there. We don’t look up a map of...

You’re probably not familiar with the map of Nicaragua, even though you might enjoy its products on the regular. No problem there. We don’t look up a map of every country we buy stuff from, either. But are you at least familiar with the point system for rating premium cigars? You are? That’s great because this is a friggin’ 94-point BEAST of a cigar!

The Herrera Esteli Norteno was Cigar Aficionado’s #7 cigar of 2016. If you’re into Maduro smokes, this is a must-try cigar.

Back to the map for a second. The word “norteño” means “one from the north.” In the case of people from Estelí, they happen to be in the northwestern region of Nicaragua, and so some of their countrymen think of them as norteños. Estelí is also one of the most popular growing regions for tobacco not just in Nicaragua, but the whole world, at this point. Many of the absolute best cigars of the past decade or more have used Nicaraguan tobacco, and leading companies like Drew Estate, Plasencia, and so many others have huge operations in the country. This cigar is a tip of the sombrero to that fertile land in the north, and the people who work it to produce such wonderful products.

The Herrera Esteli Norteno cigar features a Mexican San Andrés Maduro wrapper, known for its rich earthy flavor and potent spicy pepper kick. This is aided by a Honduran binder, and an outstanding blend of Nicaraguan long-filler tobacco leaves from Jalapa and (of course) Estelí. The smoke feels about medium-bodied and offers flavors of black pepper, fresh earth, raw cocoa bean, and subdued milk chocolate. Master Blender Willy Herrera has somehow followed up his Herrera Esteli Habano with another chart-topping smoke. We’re so happy that Drew Estate gave Mr. Herrera an opportunity to create his own lines of cigars – the results have been consistently delicious!

Please browse our selection of Herrera Esteli Norteno cigars at your leisure.

Herrera Esteli by Drew Estate Norteno FAQ's

What are the flavors like?

Black pepper, fresh earth, raw cocoa bean, milk chocolate.
What’s the strength level?

Medium Bodied.
Who is this cigar for?

People who want a rich premium Maduro with an outstanding Nicaraguan blend inside.
Will I want to smoke it to the nub?

No question.
What’s a good pairing with it?

Eagle Rare 17 Year bourbon, with toffee, molasses, leather, and even tobacco notes. Should be an interesting combo.
What’s the best time/place to smoke this cigar?

Whenever you head north.
Any flaws/downsides?

We haven’t seen any issues with this one. It’s a truly fine smoke.

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Herrera Esteli by Drew Estate Norteno FAQ's

What are the flavors like?

What’s the strength level?

Who is this cigar for?

Will I want to smoke it to the nub?

What’s a good pairing with it?

What’s the best time/place to smoke this cigar?

Any flaws/downsides?