Drew Estate: Bestseller
Drew Estate: All items
Drew Estate Cigars: A Dream Becomes Reality
The Drew Estate brand encompasses an impressive variety of series and blends, making it nearly impossible to capture them all here. Detailed information on each line can be found on their respective pages. But who is actually behind Drew Estate? The story begins with two men and a bold dream—the foundation of the American cigar brand Drew Estate.
These two pioneers are Jonathan Drew and Marvin Samel. Their goal: to establish their own cigar factory under the resonant name La Gran Fabrica Drew Estate. Unlike many traditional cigar manufacturers, they had neither a long family tradition nor roots in Cuba. Their journey began in a modest 5 m² kiosk at the World Trade Center in New York City—a tough but passionate path. Their deep enthusiasm for cigars and the cigar land Nicaragua helped them fight their way to the top, step by step.
The early days were filled with challenges and uncertainty. Their dream often seemed on the verge of collapse due to financial obstacles. In late 1998, Jonathan Drew took a decisive step: he traveled to Estelí, Nicaragua, in search of a new opportunity in the cigar world. With a handful of experienced cigar rollers and a tight budget, he started in a country whose language he barely spoke. He swapped his New York apartment for a simple mattress in the factory’s attic—a remarkable commitment.
The Rise of Drew Estate: A Brand with Character
While Jonathan pushed production forward in Nicaragua, Marvin remained in Brooklyn, seeking financial backing. He turned to family, friends, and anyone willing to believe in their dream—even if it meant taking loans from questionable lenders.
In spring 1999, Jonathan returned to Brooklyn—with innovative cigar blends in tow. They were unique, unlike anything seen before. For branding, they enlisted artist Scott Acid Chester, who not only designed the visuals but also inspired the name of their new series: Acid Cigars were born. Premium tobaccos were infused with aromatic essences, creating a sensation in the U.S.
Flavored Cigars with Cult Status
Following the Acid series, Natural by Drew Estate launched in 2000, known in Germany as Larutan. The La Vieja Habana line had debuted in 1998 but faced production delays due to Hurricane Mitch. It returned in 2001 with an elegant Art Deco design, further strengthening the brand. A milestone came that same year when Forbes magazine listed Drew Estate among rising brands alongside Apple and Harley-Davidson. Expansion continued, and in 2004, the company relocated to Miami. There, Steve Saka joined the team, propelling Drew Estate to new heights. The vision of a state-of-the-art factory began taking shape.
Drew Estate’s “La Gran Fabrica” – A Masterpiece of the Cigar World
For nearly a decade, a small factory in Estelí served as their production site. But in 2006, they discovered the perfect plot overlooking tobacco fields. This became the site of the magnificent La Gran Fabrica Drew Estate, which opened in 2007. Covering nearly 30,000 m², it is one of the world’s five largest premium cigar factories and the biggest of its kind in Nicaragua. Around 94,000 hand-rolled cigars are produced here daily.
The factory’s architecture makes a statement: open, bright spaces, artistic murals, and an atmosphere that captivates visitors. Jonathan Drew and Marvin Samel invite aficionados to experience the heart of their brand firsthand—an unparalleled opportunity to witness the magic of cigar craftsmanship up close.
Drew Estate Cigars at a Glance
The Liga Privada No. 9 was originally developed as a private blend for Steve Saka and has since become one of the most sought-after cigars worldwide. With complex notes of earth, leather, and coffee, it offers an intense, luxurious smoking experience. Due to its rare tobaccos, it is only available in limited quantities.
As demand for Liga Privada grew, Drew Estate sought an alternative for everyday enjoyment—thus, the Undercrown series was born. It offers similar characteristics but with a distinct blend. Options include the rich, dark Undercrown Maduro, the spicy Sun Grown, and the creamy, nutty Undercrown Shade.
Another standout is the Deadwood series. Originally crafted for a store in South Dakota, it gained cult status. Cigars like Fat Bottom Betty and Leather Rose feature sweetened wrappers and rich flavors of chocolate, coffee, and dark caramel—perfect for those who appreciate unique blends.
