This cigar is the result of a unique collaboration between three passionate individuals: James Hetfield, co-founder of Metallica; Rob Dietrich, Master Distiller of BLACKENED American Whiskey; and Jonathan Drew, Founder and President of Drew Estate. The partnership began with Hetfield and Dietrich, who frequently enjoyed cigars together. Dietrich introduced Hetfield to Drew, and the trio connected over their shared vision and stories. Over two years, they sampled various cigars, kept detailed notes, and ultimately crafted the BLACKENED M81 cigar, reflecting their collective passion for music, fellowship, and life.

The name “M81” pays homage to Metallica’s founding year, 1981, with “M” representing Metallica and “81” denoting the year. The BLACKENED M81 cigar features a Mexican San Andrés maduro wrapper, a Connecticut Broadleaf maduro binder, and a filler blend of Nicaraguan and Pennsylvania Broadleaf maduro tobaccos, including the boldest Pennsylvania Broadleaf ligero in Drew Estate’s inventory. This all-maduro blend delivers a dark, bold, rich, and powerful smoking experience with alluring notes of espresso, leather, and dark chocolate.