Drew Estate Blackened S84 Shade to Black

With the Drew Estate Blackened S84, the collaboration between James Hetfield, frontman of the metal band Metallica founded in 1981, Master Distiller Rob Dietrich, and Jonathan Drew of Drew Estate presents a surprisingly approachable interpretation of modern Cigars from Nicaragua. While the name “Blackened” references the Metallica song of the same name from 1988, the S84 takes a noticeably milder approach than its dark sister line, the Drew Estate Blackened S81 Maduro to the Core. The idea emerged during numerous shared cigar and whiskey sessions between Hetfield and Dietrich, who tasted and refined various blends over a period of around two years. The result is a series for aficionados seeking a balanced combination of creaminess, spice, and character – ideal as a companion to bourbon, whiskey, or simply for relaxed moments of enjoyment.

Drew Estate Blackened S84 – the Gentler Side of Metallica

Metallica has been one of the most successful and influential bands in rock and metal history for more than four decades. Albums such as the legendary “Black Album,” featuring classics like “Enter Sandman” and “Nothing Else Matters,” made the band known worldwide. The Blackened S84 picks up on this connection but interprets it in its own way. Rather than focusing on maximum strength, it emphasizes balance and refinement. The light Ecuador Shade wrapper gives the cigar a creamy texture, while the Connecticut River Valley Broadleaf binder and the filler made from Nicaraguan and U.S. tobaccos provide depth and the signature Blackened spice. Yes, exactly – the blend is identical to the S81 except for the wrapper. This creates a complex interplay of aromas that preserves the character of the series while presenting itself in a noticeably milder way. The name S84 refers to Metallica’s second album, Ride the Lightning, which was released on July 27, 1984. According to Dietrich, a third line is already in planning, likely to be called S86 and referring to the third album Master of Puppets.

Blackened S84 – Germany Premiere in Frankfurt

The Drew Estate Blackened S84 represents the lighter counterpart within the series. During my tasting of the Blackened S84 Robusto, creamy notes, roasted cashews, subtle cedar aromas, and a pleasant, delicate sweetness stood out in particular. As the smoke progressed, light spice notes and nutty nuances complemented the harmonious overall impression without ever making the cigar seem overpowering. Our Cigarworld team from Düsseldorf had the opportunity to accompany the Germany premiere on May 23, 2026, in Frankfurt. The Metallica concert taking place at the same time provided the perfect backdrop – even if the band preferred to spend their night off elsewhere. The evening offered everything that defines a successful cigar event: good conversations, delicious food, great music, and, of course, interesting new releases from Drew Estate Zigarren. The encounters with fellow retailers and the relaxed atmosphere more than made up for the journey home – even for the one who had to drive in the end. :-)