Top rated cigar brands
Today we talk about Top rated cigar brands.
The Ultimate Guide to Top Rated Cigar Brands
As a passionate cigar aficionado, exploring top rated cigar brands is one of my favorite pastimes. Each cigar represents not just a tobacco blend but a craft perfected over centuries. According to the Cigar Association of America, premium cigar sales reached nearly $1 billion in 2021. This growth is a testament to the rising popularity and the intricate artistry behind these top rated cigars.
Understanding Cigar Ratings
Cigar ratings offer insight into the quality and appreciation of different blends. The Cigar Aficionado magazine rates cigars on a 100-point scale, with a mere 10% receiving scores above 90. This level of scrutiny highlights the dedication to excellence within the top rated cigar brands. On average, the best cigars, according to industry ratings, provide not just superior flavor but also excellent construction and consistent draw.
1. Cohiba Behike
Flavor Profile and Popularity
The Cohiba Behike, with its average score over 92, is often cited among the best cigars globally. Made from specially selected leaves, its flavor notes of cocoa, leather, and cream create a luxurious smoking experience. With a limited production run, it sells for around $50 to $100 per cigar, making it a prized possession for serious collectors and a key player among top rated cigar brands.
2. Arturo Fuente Opus X
Why It’s Considered a Top Choice
Arturo Fuente Opus X is often referred to as the “holy grail” of cigars. It receives high marks due to its complex blend of aged Dominican tobaccos, providing rich flavors like cedar and spice, with some models reaching scores of 97. Retail prices range from $20 to $35, appealing to enthusiasts who appreciate quality without compromise. This cigar reinforces the standard for top rated cigar brands that prioritize flavor and craftsmanship.
3. Padron 1964 Anniversary Series
Features that Define Its Excellence
The Padron 1964 Anniversary Series has consistently earned ratings above 90 and is celebrated for its perfect balance. The Nicaraguan tobacco used for these cigars undergoes aging for a minimum of four years. Priced between $15 and $25, this cigar is emblematic of quality and rich flavors like chocolate and nuts, establishing it firmly among the elite in top rated cigar brands.
4. Davidoff Winston Churchill The Late Hour
Distinctive Qualities and Reviews
Davidoff Winston Churchill The Late Hour typically earns scores in the low 90s, appealing to those who enjoy its blend of aged Dominican and Nicaraguan tobaccos, which contribute to notable notes of dark chocolate and oak. Often priced at around $20, I find this cigar especially perfect for evening relaxation, reaffirming its status among top rated cigar brands.
5. Montecristo No. 2
What Makes It a Favorite?
The Montecristo No. 2 is widely treasured for its iconic shape and rich flavor, consistently scoring in the high 80s to 90s. With complex profiles that include creamy vanilla and spice, it often retails around $12 to $15. This cigar’s blend of quality and accessibility solidifies it as a top choice for both newcomers and seasoned smokers alike from the top rated cigar brands.
6. Partagas Serie D No. 4
It’s Unique Attributes
This robust cigar routinely garners high ratings, typically in the 90s. The Partagas Serie D No. 4 is known for its deep earthy flavor, complemented by hints of leather and spice. Priced around $10 to $15, it resonates well with those seeking a bold taste, making it an essential part of my collection when I want something invigorating from the top rated cigar brands.
7. Romeo y Julieta Short Churchill
Why Cigar Enthusiasts Love It
The Romeo y Julieta Short Churchill has earned an impressive reputation thanks to its approachable flavor profile that often scores around 88 to 91. With hints of nutmeg and cedar, sold at approximately $9 to $12, it stands out for social occasions, reinforcing its inclusion in the conversations surrounding top rated cigar brands.
8. Ashton VSG
Key Characteristics and Accolades
Ashton VSG is celebrated for its rich flavors that usually skirt the 90-point range. Its blend of Dominican tobaccos and robust flavor profile, featuring notes of spice and wood, is complemented by its eye-catching packaging. Priced around $10 to $13, it’s a quality choice for daily enjoyment, ensuring its loyalty among top rated cigar brands.
9. Liga Privada No. 9
Standout Features and Ratings
The Liga Privada No. 9 consistently demonstrates excellence, often rated between 91 and 95 points. Its rich profile includes dark chocolate, espresso, and pepper, positioning it as a premium choice that often retails for $12 to $15 per cigar. This reflects the dedication to quality that keeps it firm in the lineup of top rated cigar brands.
10. La Flor Dominicana Andalusian Bull
What Sets It Apart in the Market
The La Flor Dominicana Andalusian Bull dazzles with unique shape and rich flavors. Rated highly, often at 92, its complex notes of spice and sweetness can be experienced for a price of around $20. This cigar perfectly illustrates the creativity within the top rated cigar brands and is a personal favorite when I need something distinct.
Other Noteworthy Cigar Brands
Brief Overview of Additional Top Rated Cigars
Beyond the heavyweights listed, I also enjoy cigars from Tatuaje, My Father, and Oliva, each with unique blends and commendable ratings. Cigar Revolution rates Tatuaje Reserva at 92, further expanding the landscape of top rated cigar brands.
Choosing the Right Cigar for You
Factors to Consider When Selecting a Cigar
As I navigate the vast world of top rated cigar brands, I emphasize key factors such as flavor preference, occasion, and price point. Whether for an intimate dinner or a festive celebration, aligning these considerations with the attributes of each cigar enhances the overall experience, guiding my choices effectively.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Common Queries About Top Rated Cigar Brands
Many fellow aficionados often inquire about the best cigar brands, the smoothest options, premium exclusives, and which cigars offer the most alluring aromas. I suggest exploring highly rated cigars like Cohiba, Ashton, and Arturo Fuente as reliable starting points to elevate your cigar journey.
Conclusion
Summary of Top Rated Cigar Brands and Final Thoughts
Diving into the realm of top rated cigar brands reveals an extensive universe of flavors and experiences, each recommended cigar backed by impressive ratings and dedicated craftsmanship. I encourage fellow enthusiasts to explore these exceptional cigars to find their own favorites, contributing to an ongoing passion for fine cigars.
What is the best cigar brand?
The best cigar brand varies by taste, but Cohiba, Davidoff, and Padron are frequently top-rated choices, often praised for quality and craftsmanship.
What is the smoothest cigar?
Ashton VSG and Montecristo No. 2 are considered smooth cigars that appeal to both novice and experienced smokers alike, often receiving high praise among top rated cigar brands.
What is a premium cigar brand?
Premium cigar brands, such as Arturo Fuente, Cohiba, and Davidoff, are distinguished by their quality craftsmanship and carefully selected tobaccos, aligning well with the most coveted choices among top rated cigar brands.
What cigar smells the best?
Cigars like Liga Privada No. 9 and Cohiba Behike are often noted for their delightful aromas, contributing to a memorable experience for enthusiasts seeking top rated cigar brands.