After the success of its well-received Liga Privada No. 9 line, Drew Estate wanted to produce a second Liga Privada series that was stronger and more robust than the original. Following an extensive development period of two years, the result was the T52 line, from which this vitola — the T52 Toro — is drawn.
Like the sticks of the No. 9 line, those in the T52 series make use of a Brazilian Mata Fina binder and Honduran and Nicaraguan long-filler leaves from seven distinct tobacco farms. But unlike the No. 9 line, the T52s use a stalk-cut, Connecticut-grown, Cuban-seed Habano wrapper that lends these cigars a bolder, richer, earthier quality.
Whereas most tobacco is primed — removed from the plant and processed a few leaves at a time, stalk-cut tobacco is cut below the middle of the plant, with all the leaves left intact on the plant’s stalk. The stalks are left in the sun to wilt a bit, then hung up in a warehouse, during which time the leaves continue to draw nutrients from them. This gives the leaves the aforementioned qualities they possess, for which they’re prized in the cigar-making industry.
Only the most experienced rollers at Drew Estate’s Gran Fabrica cigar factory in Estelí, Nicaragua are allowed to assemble the ultra-premium Liga Privada T52 sticks, in low quantities per day. These cigars are then sold exclusively through select retailers.
With flawless construction, an effortless draw and a razor-sharp, dead-even burn, the Liga Privada T52 Toro is a full-bodied, full-strength smoke that generates prolonged, sophisticated and complex flavors. These flavors include coffee, cedar, leather, sweet caramel, pepper and orange, along with hints of cream, toast, vanilla and chocolate. The finish yields a spicy kick.
Cigar Aficionado accorded these smokes a 90 rating, calling them “brawny.” Liga Privada T52 sticks have only grown in popularity, and a significant portion of smokers now prefer them to the No. 9 varieties. It’s up to you to decide which camp you fall into, but bear in mind that boxes of either line of smokes are not easy to come by. If the T52 Toros are in stock and available, it’s best to get your order in while supplies hold out.