Drew Estate’s Leather Rose has gained a loyal following as part of the popular Deadwood Tobacco series, known for its infusion of sweet and aromatic tobaccos. Often described as mysterious, bold, and a bit wild, Leather Rose stands out from the rest of the Deadwood lineup with its unique spice and rich, complex flavors. This cigar is available in both Maduro and Natural versions, each offering a distinct experience while maintaining the signature sweetness and richness Deadwood fans expect.
In this blog, we’ll break down the key differences between the two versions of Leather Rose and explore the unique notes each one brings to the table. Whether you’re drawn to the dark allure of the Maduro or the balanced sweetness of the Natural, Leather Rose promises an unforgettable smoking journey.
Leather Rose Natural: Sweet, Spicy, and Smooth
The Leather Rose Natural is a perfect blend of sweet, spicy, and earthy flavors. Featuring a medium-brown Habano wrapper, this cigar brings a well-rounded profile that is ideal for both new and seasoned cigar enthusiasts who appreciate a touch of sweetness without overwhelming richness.
Flavor Profile:
- Initial Notes: From the first puff, the Leather Rose Natural delivers a blend of sweet spices with a touch of earthiness. You’ll immediately notice the infusion of natural sweetness that pairs beautifully with the tobacco’s peppery kick.
- Middle of the Smoke: As the cigar develops, notes of cedar, cinnamon, and cream start to shine through. The balance between sweet and spicy remains consistent, with hints of caramel and nutmeg adding depth to the overall experience.
- Finish: The final third of the Natural version brings out more baking spices, and a lingering sweetness on the palate, with a smooth, creamy finish that’s easy to enjoy without overpowering the senses.
Best Pairings: This version pairs well with a sweet bourbon or spiced rum, and if you’re enjoying it with coffee, a medium roast or a cinnamon latte would complement its sweet, spicy notes perfectly.
Leather Rose Maduro: Dark, Decadent, and Daring
If you’re looking for a more robust, fuller-flavored experience, the Leather Rose Maduro brings a bolder punch of flavors while retaining that signature sweetness. Wrapped in a dark and oily Maduro wrapper, this version dives deep into richer, darker notes with added complexity and intensity.
Flavor Profile:
- Initial Notes: The Maduro version opens with a rich mix of dark chocolate, black pepper, and a sweetness that leans toward molasses. The Maduro wrapper adds a layer of natural sweetness with an earthier, slightly smoky undertone.
- Middle of the Smoke: As you progress, the flavor deepens with notes of espresso, leather, and charred wood, blending smoothly with the sweet infusion. The spiciness of the cigar is still present but balanced by the richness of the tobacco, creating a more decadent smoke.
- Finish: The final third offers a beautiful harmony of dark chocolate, spice, and cocoa, with a long, satisfying finish. The sweetness remains but is more subtle, allowing the deeper notes of leather and coffee to dominate.
Best Pairings: The Leather Rose Maduro pairs excellently with a dark rum, a strong espresso, or a full-bodied stout. Its rich, earthy tones also go well with a glass of whiskey or bourbon with smoky or caramel notes.
Key Differences Between the Natural & Maduro
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Wrapper: The most obvious difference is the wrapper. The Natural uses a medium-brown Habano wrapper, which provides a smooth, slightly sweet profile with subtle spice. The Maduro, on the other hand, has a dark, oily wrapper that brings out darker, richer flavors, adding depth and intensity to the smoke.
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Flavor Strength: The Natural version is more approachable with a medium-bodied profile, perfect for those who enjoy sweetness and a bit of spice but prefer a smoother smoke. The Maduro is bolder, offering a fuller-bodied experience with more complex flavors of chocolate, leather, and dark coffee.
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Sweetness & Spice Balance: Both versions are sweetened cigars, but the Natural leans more on the side of balanced sweetness with spice, while the Maduro's sweetness is intertwined with earthy and robust notes, creating a more layered experience.
Why Leather Rose Stands Out
Leather Rose isn’t just another sweet cigar—it’s a journey through boldness, sweetness, and spice. Whether you’re drawn to the more nuanced, medium-bodied Natural or the bold richness of the Maduro, each version delivers a unique experience that will appeal to both Deadwood fans and newcomers alike.
Final Thoughts
Drew Estate’s Leather Rose embodies a daring balance of flavors, with each version offering its own twist on the iconic sweet and spicy blend. Whether you opt for the smooth, sweet, and spicy profile of the Natural or crave the rich, bold decadence of the Maduro, Leather Rose promises an unforgettable smoking experience that keeps you coming back for more.
So, the next time you're looking to spice up your cigar collection, let Leather Rose take you on an adventurous ride through the wild side of tobacco.