Cigar aficionado top 25 2021

Today we talk about Cigar aficionado top 25 2021.

As a devoted cigar lover, I eagerly look forward to the annual “Cigar Aficionado Top 25” list, which provides a curated look at the best cigars available. With nearly 50 years of experience in tasting, Cigar Aficionado’s rankings are based on various criteria, including flavor, construction, and smoking enjoyment. In 2021, 23,000 cigars were evaluated throughout the year, culminating in an outstanding list that piqued my interest, and I can’t wait to share my top findings!

Cigar Aficionado Top 25 Cigars of 2021

An Overview of the List

The “Cigar Aficionado Top 25 Cigars of 2021” encapsulates the diverse array of options available today. This year, rather than focusing solely on traditional Cuban offerings, the list showcased cigars from Nicaragua, the Dominican Republic, and Honduras, reflecting the growing quality and innovation from these regions. I noted that around 27% of the cigars on the list hailed from Nicaragua, with rising brands carving out their niche in the premium cigar market.

Padrón 1964 Anniversary Series Torpedo (Natural)

Tasting Notes and Flavor Profile

This iconic cigar consistently tops the charts, boasting an impressive 95 rating from Cigar Aficionado. The Padrón 1964 Anniversary Series Torpedo delivers deep, rich flavors with notes of cocoa, coffee, and spices. Personally, I find it perfect for special celebrations or quiet evenings. With over 4 million cigars produced annually, Padrón demonstrates its commitment to quality, making this cigar a must-try for any aficionado.

Montecristo 1935 Anniversary Nicaragua No. 2

Characteristics and Unique Features

This luxurious smoke earned a 94 rating and has become a standout for its intricate balance of flavors featuring dark chocolate, spices, and coffee. I often enjoy it on memorable occasions, introducing new enthusiasts to the nuances of premium cigars. Since its launch, Montecristo’s Nicaraguan line has been rapidly expanding, reflecting a 15% annual growth in market demand for these blends.

San Cristobal Quintessence Churchill

Smoking Experience and Cigar Pairings

The San Cristobal Quintessence Churchill combines earthy, creamy, and spicy notes for a well-rounded experience that earned it a 93 score. I recommend pairing this cigar with a light whiskey; the smoothness of the whiskey complements the rich tobacco flavors perfectly. With a growing consumer base, I find that this cigar is increasingly popular, especially with those looking to explore Nicaraguan offerings.

Partagás Serie D No. 4

Why It Made the List

This esteemed Cuban cigar grabbed a solid 94 rating and has become a benchmark against which other cigars are measured. Its bold flavors of dark chocolate and spices make it a favorite among many aficionados, including myself. Over 1.3 million Partagás cigars are awarded annually, showcasing the brand’s longstanding reputation for quality and consistency.

Casa Cuba Doble Cuatro

Construction Quality and Draw

The Casa Cuba Doble Cuatro reflects exceptional craftsmanship, scoring a notable 91, and is characterized by its smooth draw and delightful construction. When lighting this cigar, I enjoy its flavorful notes of cedar and cream. Casa Cuba is gaining traction as consumer preferences shift toward bold and flavorful offerings, with a 20% rise in sales since its debut.

Illusione Cruzado Robusto

What Makes It Stand Out

Boasting a 92 rating, the Illusione Cruzado Robusto stands out with its harmonious blend of sweet spices and earthy tones. It has a growing following and is another cigar that makes its way into my collection as it highlights the skills of innovative master blenders. The brand has seen a steady increase in production, with a reported growth of about 25% in recent years.

Oliva Serie V Melanio Maduro Churchill

A Closer Look at Flavor Complexity

The Oliva Serie V Melanio Maduro Churchill blends rich flavors of dark chocolate, coffee, and caramel and is rated 95. I often choose it for my evening smokes as it brings a luxurious experience with every puff. Oliva has been expanding its offerings, with a record increase of about 30% in production to meet rising consumer demand.

Cohiba Siglo VI

Craftsmanship and Popularity

With a long-standing legacy and an impressive 95 rating, the Cohiba Siglo VI continues to command respect in the cigar world. Its refined flavors of leather and spices truly elevate the smoking experience. As one of the most sought-after brands, Cohiba accounts for nearly 40% of the premium cigar market share, emphasizing its undeniable popularity among enthusiasts.

Rocky Patel Grand Reserve Robusto

Perfect Occasions for Enjoyment

This cigar is designed for celebrations, earning an 90 rating, and features smooth flavors of cocoa and spices. I enjoy lighting it for special milestones or informal gatherings, where its approachable taste can be appreciated by seasoned smokers and novices alike. Rocky Patel’s innovative marketing has contributed to a 22% increase in their brand’s visibility over the past few years.

Arturo Fuente Rare Pink Vintage 1960’s Series Happy Ending

Limited Edition Appeal

This limited-edition masterpiece has earned a 94 rating and encapsulates elegance in every puff. It fuels excitement and is a fantastic conversation starter among cigar enthusiasts. The collector’s market for limited editions is thriving, with sales of limited releases increasing by over 18% in 2021, making this a valuable addition to any humidor.

Cloud Hopper No. 53

Target Audience and Reception

Targeting a younger audience, the Cloud Hopper No. 53 offers an accessible price point and blends unique flavors. It has garnered an 88 rating and is quickly becoming popular among new cigar smokers entering the premium market. As a result, sales have spiked by 15% within this demographic, indicating a shift in preferences towards approachable flavors.

Luciano The Dreamer

Inspiration Behind the Cigar

Inspired by the themes of hope and ambition, Luciano The Dreamer received a solid 90 rating. The blend captures rich flavors and creativity, making each smoking experience feel elevated. The growing brand has seen a rise in interest, with a production increase of 20% in response to enthusiastic reviews from the cigar community.

Tatuaje Reserva K222

Noteworthy Blending Techniques

Tatuaje is renowned for its blending expertise, and the Reserva K222 received a rating of 92 for its intricate profile. I appreciate this cigar for its complexity and the craftsmanship involved in its creation. Tatuaje continues to innovate and grow within the industry, with a remarkable 40% growth in sales captured through its unique blends.

Aging Room Quattro Nicaragua Concerto

How Aging Affects Flavor

The Aging Room Quattro is a testament to how aging positively impacts flavor. With a rating of 91, its rich and mellow notes are a result of careful aging processes. I often find a comforting depth in this cigar, making it a favorite for contemplative evenings. The brand has seen a steady uptick in consumer interest, reflecting a 15% growth trajectory in the past year.

Herrera Esteli Habano Robusto Grande

Best Pairing Options

This smooth and flavorful cigar offers an enjoyable smoking experience with a rating of 90. I recommend pairing it with a full-bodied rum to complement its earthy flavors. This blend has gained recognition, contributing to a 16% increase in sales as consumers increasingly seek expertly crafted options.

My Father The Judge Grand Robusto

Reasons to Include in Your Collection

The Judge Grand Robusto is a powerful smoke that earned a 94 rating. Its rich and balanced flavor profile makes it a worthy addition to my collection. My Father cigars have expedited growth averaging 25% annually, fueled by passionate support from the cigar community.

Ramon Allones Gigantes

Review from Cigar Enthusiasts

Receiving positive reviews across the board, the Ramon Allones Gigantes is celebrated for its complex blend of flavors and aroma. It boasts a rating of 91 and has captured the interest of aficionados, showcased by an increase in consumer interest of about 30% this past year. Lighting one up feels like experiencing a slice of cigar history.

Saint Luis Rey Carenas Toro

Tasting Experience

The Carenas Toro presents a delightful balance of flavors, earning a score of 90. I appreciate its consistency and the pleasant experience it delivers on each draw. Sales have increased steadily, reflecting an 18% rise in popularity as more cigar lovers explore its rich character.

La Flor Dominicana Air Bender Chisel

Craftsmanship and Design Features

This unique Chisel-shaped cigar boasts a 92 rating through its innovative design. The craftsmanship shines, and the bold flavors create a memorable smoking experience. With design-focused options gaining traction, sales of La Flor Dominicana saw a significant increase of 20% last year.

Padilla 88 Aniversario Robusto

What to Expect When Smoking

Expect a luxurious experience with Padilla 88, which earned a rating of 91. It offers smooth, creamy flavors that make it a big hit for casual smoking. The rising popularity of Padilla cigars is reflected in their production increase of 25%, catering to a growing base of loyal enthusiasts.

Ramon Allones by AJ Fernandez Torpedo

Signature Touches of AJ Fernandez

This cigar blends traditional techniques with modern twists, earning a notable 92 rating. Enjoying this smoke feels like indulging in a masterclass of flavors. AJ Fernandez’s influence on the cigar scene continues, as his brand consolidated a market share increase of 15% in the premium segment.

Ashton Heritage Puro Sol Churchill

Significance in the 2021 Rankings

The Ashton Heritage Puro Sol Churchill holds a well-deserved rating of 93 and exemplifies quality and craftsmanship. Personal enjoyment peaks when shared with friends or reflecting on life’s moments. Ashton’s notable presence is reinforced by an annual growth rate of 12%, revealing how they capture the hearts of cigar lovers.

E.P. Carrillo La Historia E-III

Why This Cigar is a Must-Try

The La Historia E-III is not just a cigar; it’s an experience with a rating of 94. Rich notes of chocolate and spices envelop my senses, compelling me to recommend it to fellow enthusiasts. This standout has accelerated E.P. Carrillo’s growth, which topped 20% in recent years as they solidified their position in the premium market.

Alec & Bradley Kintsugi Corona Gorda

A Brief Analysis of Its Popularity

The Alec & Bradley Kintsugi Corona Gorda gained traction with its unique flavors and story, earning an impressive 89 rating. With a production increase of around 15% in recent years, I can see why more smokers are discovering its intricate blending techniques. It manifests the beauty of imperfections, making it a relatable choice for many.

The Top 25 Process

How the Rankings Are Determined

The rigorous process used by Cigar Aficionado involves blind tastings and detailed evaluations, with expert judges analyzing over 20 criteria, from flavor to construction. Out of 23,000 cigars examined throughout the year, only the top 25 made the cut—making it essential for any aficionado like myself to pay attention to these exceptional selections!

FAQ

What is the number one cigar in 2021?

The number one cigar in 2021 is the Padrón 1964 Anniversary Series Torpedo, acclaimed for its complex flavors and consistency that garners a high rating of 95.

How many issues of Cigar Aficionado are there a year?

Cigar Aficionado releases six issues annually, each packed with expert insights, detailed reviews, and in-depth articles about premium cigars and the industry.

What is the number one cigar in the world?

The Padrón 1964 Anniversary Series consistently ranks as the top cigar globally, recognized for its quality craftsmanship and consistently excellent flavor.

What is the smoothest cigar in the world?

While smoothness can vary, the Ashton VSG line is often celebrated for its creamy texture and satisfying smoke, making it a contender for the smoothest cigar available.