After the success of the previous Black Market cigars, it was only a matter of time before a new update was unleashed upon the world, this time in the form of the Alec Bradley Black Market Esteli Robusto. Under the direction of owner Alan Rubin, the blenders at Alec Bradley dug deep into the vast stores of aged longleaf stored by the legendary Nestor Plasencia to secure some exquisite Esteli-grown Nicaraguan tobaccos possible to serve as a powerful full-strength filler. Next in the lineup are a paired set of succulent binders, one of course Nicaraguan, the other from Honduras. A final Nicaraguan leaf, rich with oils and potency, makes a bold statement as the wrapper.
The appearance of the Alec Bradley Black Market Esteli Robusto should be familiar to anyone acquainted with the other versions of the front mark. A large paper label, which when removed reveals a much more normal-sized band, covers more than half of the 5” X 52 vitola from the foot towards the perfectly applied cap. The body of the cigar itself is just as well-rolled as any Alec Bradley stick, with a hefty weight and no sponginess to be found. The flavor of a lit Black Market Esteli can be described as both sweet and savory. Tastes of exotic spices and currants meld with earthy minerals, roasted coffee, and salted almonds. The cigar burns slow and cool from beginning to end.
Beautifully balanced despite it’s strength, this is a cigar calling out for a bold beverage pairing after a hearty meal. Designed with the experienced smoker in mind, there’s no reason a newer aficionado can’t stretch their wings a bit to see how they enjoy a cigar of this magnitude. Even if an Alec Bradley Black Market Esteli Robusto is somewhat overwhelming now, there’s good aging potential which will slightly mellow the stogie for the next time you feel you’re ready.
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