I must first say that I am a huge fan of what Jonathon Drew and Marvin Samel are doing for cigars. Their motto, “the rebirth of cigars” is probably the best way to sum up exactly what they have done for the industry. As mavericks, they set the cigar world on fire when they released their Acid line. As many “purists” looked down their noses at these “flavored” sticks, they caught on nonetheless, and introduced many new smokers to the world of premium cigars.

Today, Drew Estate has greatly diversified their cigar portfolio. I can assure you that no one is looking down their noses at their Liga Privada line of cigars. The Liga is a limited production cigar that incorporates some amazing Nicaraguan and Honduran filler tobacco, held in place by a Brazilian Mata Fina binder, and beautifully shrouded in an Oscuro Connecticut Broadleaf wrapper. The wrapper itself is an amazing specimen that is a result of expert selection and patience in aging. There are only about four ligero leaves from each plant that are utilized for this wrapper and after this careful selection they are fermented for 18 months. The finished cigars are aged for a year before they are shipped to retailers.

The cigar has gained critical acclaim and just this year was named by Cigar Aficionado as the “Hottest Brand in America.” Their complexes flavors aren’t the only reason people seek this stick out. They are so limited in production that when you are able to get your hands on one you definitely cherish the moment.

Not long ago, Drew Estate had a great idea to increase production of this storied line and at the same time find a use for all the trimmings that are created when crafting these fine cigars. Enter the Papas Fritas. The “French fry” is a small cigar that is made primarily of these leftover pieces. They are sold in tins of four and their price is more than half of the regular sized cigars. Their availability is also a little higher than the others, ensuring a better chance of enjoying one of these cigars.

I really love this cigar—its concept and its price. I also think that the smaller size and lesser amount of filler also make this little fellow a much different smoke than the other Ligas. I recently had a chance to revisit this cigar and I have to admit that it is exactly how I remembered it.

Upon the first few puffs, you really know that this is a special cigar. The initial flavors of coffee, a little pepper, and cocoa are there just like on the larger versions. But in this little guy the Brazilian Mata Fina really shines through, providing a well-balanced sweetness that just builds as I smoke the cigar. There are some nice pepper notes that intensify at the midway point of the cigar, but it never loses its underlying sweetness. It is a medium to full bodied smoke, which will have you holding on until it burns your fingers.

This is a must have for your humidor. If you haven’t had a chance to smoke a Liga Privada 9 and maybe the $13 and up price has kept you from taking the plunge, give the Papas Fritas a look. You can grab a tin of four for $24 and, who knows, you may want to share one with a friend. Just make sure that it is a close friend.

Long Ashes,

Chris Gwaltney, ABC Fine Wine & Spirits North Florida Regional Manager. Certified Tobacconist and Cicerone Beer Server. Follow me on Twitter @abccigarchris.