Esse Gold

Residents in many Asian countries actively consume tobacco products, which fuels the growth of local cigarette companies. One of the leading players in this market is Korea Tomorrow & Global (KT & G) from South Korea, known for its extensive portfolio of over 100 brands, including the popular Esse.

KT & G prides itself on using premium tobacco varieties sourced globally, although most of its cigarettes are made from its own carefully cultivated harvest. The company focuses on high-quality tobacco production, employing exclusive fertilizers and top agricultural experts to ensure superior crops.

This commitment allows KT & G to maintain a reliable two-year supply of high-quality raw materials—something even larger tobacco manufacturers often struggle to achieve.

Esse, introduced in the last century, stands out as the company’s flagship brand. Initially available in just a few varieties—Regular, Lights, and Menthol—Esse has expanded its flavor options significantly in response to growing consumer interest. The brand frequently experiments with unique blends and aromas.

What sets Esse apart are its distinctive features, which encompass both packaging and product design, making it easily recognizable. This includes the precise labeling of nicotine content, measured to two decimal places, a level of accuracy that reflects KT & G's commitment to quality.

The packaging design involves colorful shell pieces topped with a glossy varnish and enhanced with holographic stamping. The outer packaging and inner foil feature a modified floral pattern that incorporates colored smoke effects.

Esse cigarettes are longer than standard king-size varieties, with the Esse Golden Leaf recognized as the thinnest cigarette globally. To differentiate the brand, each filter is marked with a unique design.

In terms of strength, Esse cigarettes are formulated to minimize nicotine and tar content, catering particularly to women smokers. Nicotine levels range from 0.25 to 0.65 mg, while tar content varies between 2.5 and 7 mg.

KT & G continues to innovate and diversify its Esse product line, expanding its appeal beyond female consumers with new flavors aimed at a broader audience, including men, as seen with releases like Black and Golden Leaf.

Major tobacco manufacturers, including KT & G, routinely gather consumer data to maintain their market position. A significant portion of Esse consumers consists of young adults, whose preferences can change rapidly.

Among the traditional offerings, Esse Super Slims Gold features a moderate strength with a tar level of 4 mg, characterized by a long, slender shape filled with the finest tobacco cut.