The Undercrown Shade Gran Toro is part of Drew Estate’s Undercrown Shade line, a Connecticut-shade-wrapped extension of the popular Undercrown family created to complement the original San Andrés-wrapped offerings.
The Shade line is presented in seven distinct vitolas: Coronets, Corona Viva, Robusto, Gran Toro, Corona Doble, and Gordito. The seventh is a seasonal Flying Pig size. There are also some discontinued sizes, such as the Belicoso and Churchill. It is sold in 25-count boxes.
Cigars are rolled in a Claro shade leaf, that is silky to the touch. The overall construction is excellent: the filling is homogeneous and generous, while the wrapper shows very small veins.
- Country of Origin: Nicaragua
- Size: 52 x 152 mm (6″)
- Wrapper: Ecuador
- Binder: Indonesia
- Filler: Dominican Rep., Nicaragua
- Price: $ 9.9 | € 12
Undercrown Shade Gran Toro: the cold draw reveals scents of white pepper and wood, with a hint of wood resin. The opening brings notes of white pepper and earth to the palate.
The first third alternates earth, aged wood, and white pepper, with some roasted nuances in the background. There is also a hint of incense perceivable in some puffs. The strength is medium (3/5).
The second third proceeds with the same flavor profile. There are some vegetal notes that appear as well, relegated in the aftertaste, together with some walnut hints. The incense is no longer present. The strength is confirmed (3/5).
The last third of the smokes confirms both flavor profile and strength (3/5).
Overall, the Undercrown Shade Gran Toro delivers a balanced smoke with a pleasant level of intensity. The flavor profile is somewhat contained, as is the evolution, yet it remains an enjoyable experience that ultimately proves to be a very satisfying cigar.