Blackened M81

Brand Overview

History of the Brand: Blackened M81 is a collaboration between James Hetfield of Metallica, Rob Dietrich of Blackened Whiskey, and the Crowned Heads cigar company. Launched in 2019, this brand combines the worlds of music, whiskey, and cigars, aiming to create a unique sensory experience. The name “M81” is inspired by the Messier 81 galaxy, symbolizing the blend’s cosmic complexity.

Founding Year: 2019

Overall Reputation in the Cigar Industry: Blackened M81 has quickly gained a reputation for its innovative approach, blending the rock ‘n’ roll ethos with premium Cigar craftsmanship. It’s celebrated for its bold flavors and unique marketing, appealing to both cigar aficionados and fans of Metallica. The Brand has been praised for its quality and the seamless integration of whiskey notes into the cigar experience. However, some traditionalists argue that the celebrity endorsement overshadows the cigar’s intrinsic qualities.

History

Release Date: October 2019

Blackened M81 was introduced as a limited edition cigar, with its release coinciding with the launch of Blackened Whiskey. James Hetfield commented, “We wanted to create something that embodies the spirit of Blackened Whiskey, and this cigar does just that with its robust and complex profile.” The cigar line was designed to complement the whiskey, offering a harmonious pairing experience.

Blackened M81 Attributes

Concept & Inspiration: The concept behind Blackened M81 was to craft a cigar that mirrors the bold, unapologetic nature of Metallica’s music and the rich, layered flavors of Blackened Whiskey. It’s inspired by the idea of creating a sensory journey that reflects the intensity and depth of both music and spirits.

General Characteristics: Full-bodied, rich, complex, smooth, with a long finish

Tasting Notes: Dark chocolate, espresso, leather, spice, hints of whiskey

Tobacco Details

Wrapper: Ecuadorian Habano

Binder: Connecticut Broadleaf

Filler: Nicaraguan

Aging Process and Notes: The Tobacco is aged for a minimum of 18 months, with some leaves aged up to 3 years to develop the desired complexity and flavor profile.

Strength Estimate: Medium to Full

Production and Quality

Manufacturing: Hand-rolled

Quality Checks: Each cigar undergoes rigorous quality control, including visual inspection, draw testing, and a final taste test to ensure consistency and quality.

Unique Packing

The Blackened M81 Cigars come in a box designed to resemble a whiskey barrel, complete with a metallic finish and the Blackened logo, enhancing the thematic connection to whiskey.

Who Will Appreciate Blackened M81?

Target Audience: Fans of Metallica, whiskey enthusiasts, and cigar lovers looking for a bold, flavorful experience.

Pricing Strategy: Positioned as a premium cigar, with prices reflecting the quality and the unique collaboration behind it.

Type of Smoker: Experienced smokers who appreciate complex flavors and are open to innovative pairings.

Pairings

• Blackened Whiskey
• Full-bodied red wines like Cabernet Sauvignon
• Dark chocolate or espresso

Conclusion

Blackened M81 stands out in the cigar market for its bold flavors, unique backstory, and the seamless integration of music and spirits into the smoking experience. It appeals to a niche but growing audience that values innovation and quality. While it might not be for everyone, its reputation for delivering a robust and memorable smoke is well-earned, making it a must-try for those intrigued by its concept.

FAQ:

• Q: Where can I buy Blackened M81 cigars?

  A: You can purchase Blackened M81 cigars at Hiland’s Cigars, known for their excellent customer service, fast shipping, and competitive prices.

• Q: Is Blackened M81 suitable for beginners?

  A: While it’s crafted for those with some cigar experience, Beginners with an adventurous palate might enjoy it, especially if they are fans of Metallica or whiskey.

• Q: How should I store Blackened M81 cigars?

  A: Store them in a humidor at 65-70% humidity to preserve their flavor and quality.

• Q: Can I pair Blackened M81 with other drinks besides whiskey?

  A: Yes, it pairs well with full-bodied red wines, coffee, or even a strong ale.

• Q: What makes Blackened M81 different from other premium cigars?

  A: Its unique collaboration with Metallica and Blackened Whiskey, along with its thematic packaging and flavor profile, sets it apart in the market.