Drew Estate’s Tabak Especial line is a masterful blend of premium tobacco and gourmet coffee, making it a go-to choice for cigar enthusiasts who love the richness of a good cigar and the comforting aroma of freshly brewed coffee. With two distinct versions—Dulce and Negra—the Tabak Especial line offers something for every palate, whether you prefer a creamy, sweet experience or a bolder, darker flavor.
In this blog, we’ll explore what makes the Tabak Especial Dulce and Negra unique, breaking down their differences and tasting notes to help you decide which one is perfect for your next coffee-and-cigar pairing.
Tabak Especial Dulce: Smooth and Creamy
The Dulce version of Tabak Especial is all about delivering a smooth, sweet, and creamy experience. Wrapped in a silky Ecuadorian Connecticut Shade leaf, the Dulce is a milder cigar that perfectly balances its coffee infusion with the natural sweetness of the tobacco.
Flavor Profile:
- Initial Notes: From the first puff, the Dulce greets you with a rich creaminess, complemented by subtle notes of vanilla, caramel, and a hint of sweet coffee. The Connecticut wrapper adds a buttery smoothness that makes this cigar approachable and indulgent.
- Middle of the Smoke: As you continue, the coffee infusion becomes more pronounced, with flavors of latte, toasted almond, and a touch of cinnamon shining through. The natural sweetness of the tobacco blends seamlessly with the coffee notes, creating a dessert-like profile.
- Finish: The final third maintains the creamy sweetness while introducing subtle hints of white chocolate and honey, leaving a light, satisfying finish on the palate.
Strength and Body:
The Dulce is a mild to medium-bodied cigar, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer a lighter smoke or are new to infused cigars.
Pairing Suggestions:
The Tabak Especial Dulce pairs beautifully with a vanilla latte, cappuccino, or a sweet dessert wine like Moscato. For an evening treat, try pairing it with a smooth Irish cream liqueur.
Tabak Especial Negra: Bold and Robust
For those who enjoy their coffee strong and their cigars bold, the Negra version of Tabak Especial is the perfect choice. Wrapped in a dark and oily Connecticut Broadleaf Maduro, the Negra delivers a richer, fuller-bodied experience with deep, roasted coffee notes and natural sweetness.
Flavor Profile:
- Initial Notes: The Negra opens with an intense burst of dark roast coffee, dark chocolate, and a touch of black pepper. The Maduro wrapper lends a natural sweetness and earthy undertones, creating a bold and flavorful start.
- Middle of the Smoke: As the cigar develops, you’ll notice layers of espresso, molasses, and oak. The spice from the initial puffs mellows slightly, allowing the coffee infusion to take center stage. Subtle notes of dried fruit and walnut add complexity to the flavor profile.
- Finish: The final third is rich and satisfying, with lingering flavors of cocoa, charred wood, and a hint of caramelized sugar, reminiscent of a perfectly pulled shot of espresso.
Strength and Body:
The Negra is a medium to full-bodied cigar, ideal for experienced smokers who appreciate robust flavors with a touch of sweetness.
Pairing Suggestions:
The Tabak Especial Negra is best paired with a dark roast coffee, espresso, or a bold bourbon. It also complements port wine or a rich, malty porter or stout beer.
Key Differences Between Dulce and Negra
| Aspect | Tabak Dulce | Tabak Negra |
|---|---|---|
| Wrapper | Ecuadorian Connecticut Shade | Connecticut Broadleaf Maduro |
| Body | Mild to Medium | Medium to Full |
| Flavor Profile | Sweet cream, vanilla, caramel, latte | Dark roast coffee, dark chocolate, molasses |
| Best For | Light, creamy smoke lovers; beginners | Bold, rich smoke lovers; seasoned smokers |
| Pairings | Vanilla latte, dessert wine, Irish cream | Espresso, bourbon, stout beer |
Why Choose Tabak Especial?
The Tabak Especial line is a testament to Drew Estate’s innovative approach to cigar-making. By infusing premium Nicaraguan tobacco with rich Nicaraguan coffee, they’ve created a series of cigars that are both flavorful and aromatic. Whether you prefer the creamy sweetness of the Dulce or the bold intensity of the Negra, there’s a Tabak Especial for every coffee and cigar lover.
Final Thoughts
Drew Estate’s Tabak Especial Dulce and Negra offer two distinct yet complementary experiences, making them perfect for pairing with your favorite coffee or after-dinner drink. The Dulce is a smooth, sweet escape, while the Negra is a bold, rich indulgence. No matter which one you choose, you’ll enjoy a cigar that expertly balances premium tobacco with gourmet coffee flavors.
So, light up a Tabak Especial, pour your favorite brew, and enjoy the perfect fusion of coffee and cigars. Which one will you try first—Dulce or Negra? Let us know your favorite!