In 2018, premium cigars welcomed a remarkable addition – the Liga Privada H99 Connecticut Corojo. This cigar, introduced by Drew Estate, emerged as a beacon of innovation and tradition, encased in a singular 6 x 52 toro vitola. At its core, the H99 is a blend of mastery, featuring a Connecticut River Valley-grown corojo-seed wrapper, a Mexican San Andrés negro binder, and a harmonious mix of Honduran and Nicaraguan fillers. This composition is a testament to craftsmanship and a narrative of tobacco’s enduring legacy.
The expansion of the H99 line saw the introduction of the Phineas Gage lancero vitola, a nod to the historical figure who miraculously survived a traumatic brain injury, influencing neuroscience profoundly. This lancero, priced at $19 per cigar, is a limited treasure at Drew Estate events, encapsulating the legacy of resilience and survival against odds, much like its namesake.
Further diversifying the H99 line, Drew Estate added a robusto size, enriching the portfolio with its unique dimensions and price point, making the H99 line more accessible to a broader audience.
Tasting Notes and Experience
Upon unboxing the Liga Privada H99 Connecticut Corojo Phineas Gage Lancero, I was greeted with enticing aromas – dry earth, leather, and cocoa. Despite its rough exterior and visible veins, the wrapper was a bit oily to the touch, which for me is a sign that I am about to enjoy a tasty cigar.
The initial draws are a vibrant clash of leather, earth, and spices, slowly evolving into a rich blend of cedar, and an intriguing mix of bitter and sweet. The cigar’s construction is impeccable, with a consistent burn and abundant smoke.
As the cigar progresses, earthy tones blend seamlessly with semi-sweet nutty notes, while the retrohale offers a dance of sweetness and red pepper, adding depth to the flavor profile. The transition into the final third marks a crescendo of sweetness and complexity, with the nuttiness and earth fusion leading the charge, supported by notes of roasted coffee and cocoa, culminating in a rich, full-bodied experience.
The Liga Privada H99 Connecticut Corojo Phineas Gage Lancero is not just a cigar; it’s a testament to the art of cigar making, a blend that respects its roots while embracing innovation. It is a beacon for those seeking depth, complexity, and a connection to the rich tapestry of tobacco’s history. Whether you’re a seasoned aficionado or a curious newcomer, the H99 invites you on a journey of discovery, where every puff is a step into the broader world of premium cigars.
More about the H99
- Liga Privada H99 Connecticut Corojo Phineas Gage Lancero
- Country of Origin: Nicaragua
- Factory: La Gran Fábrica Drew Estate
- Wrapper: U.S.A. (Connecticut Corojo)
- Binder: Mexico (San Andrés Negro)
- Filler: Honduras & Nicaragua
- Length: 7 Inches
- Ring Gauge: 40
- Vitola: Lancero
- MSRP: $19 (Box of 10, $190)
- Release Date: June 2022
The Cigar Guys 