Cigar ranking

Today we talk about Cigar ranking.

As an ardent lover of cigars, I often find myself meandering through the vast world of flavors and aromas while exploring the latest cigar rankings. In 2023, the cigar industry has seen significant innovations and products that truly capture the spirit of the craft. In this article, I will guide you through the top cigars of the year, providing data and industry insights that highlight why these selections matter. Whether you’re a seasoned aficionado or a curious newcomer, understanding cigar rankings is essential for a rewarding smoking experience.

Cigar Ranking

Cigar rankings are an essential part of our community, helping enthusiasts like myself navigate the myriad of options available. According to a recent report by Cigar Aficionado, as of 2023, the global premium cigar market is valued at approximately $10.74 billion, expected to reach $13.21 billion by 2028. This growth underscores the importance of knowing which cigars stand out in quality and flavor.

Top 25 Cigars of 2023

Here’s a detailed look at my favorite cigars of the year, backed by industry knowledge and trends.

1. Fuente Fuente OpusX Reserva d’Chateau

This cigar ranks at the top in my book not just because of its reputation but also due to its average rating of 93 from Cigar Aficionado. The rich flavors of cedar, leather, and spice make it a masterpiece, and its limited production means it’s often a collector’s item.

2. Padrón Serie 1926 No. 48 Maduro

Padrón’s commitment to quality is evident as this cigar boasts a 94 rating. Its bold flavor profile of dark chocolate and coffee delivers a consistent satisfaction that I crave, making it one of the top premium cigars of the year.

3. Oliva Serie V Melanio Toro

This Toro has sustainably maintained a strong following, receiving a rating of 95. The combination of rich tobacco leaves provides a complex experience, from sweet to spicy, that keeps me coming back.

4. Rocky Patel A.L.R. Second Edition Toro

Rated 92, I always reach for this one when I want something innovative. Its curated blend of Nicaraguan tobaccos offers a delightful mix of earthiness and sweetness.

5. E.P. Carrillo Allegiance Confidant

I was thrilled to find this ranked at 91. The Allegiance range showcases unique flavor notes of creamy nuts and spices, making it a perfect after-dinner cigar.

6. Partagás Serie P No. 2

With a consistent rating of around 90, this Cuban classic is a staple in my collection. Its rich and hearty flavor profile is ideal for any occasion.

7. Blackened Cigars “M81” By Drew Estate Corona

This unique cigar blends music with smoking, garnering a rating of 88. It offers a sweet, smoky experience that resonates well, particularly during gatherings.

8. Alec Bradley Prensado Torpedo

With a robust 93 rating, the Prensado Torpedo offers a harmonious mix of cocoa and spice, which is always satisfying to enjoy after a heavy meal.

9. La Aroma de Cuba Mi Amor Belicoso

This cigar has solidified its place with an impressive average rating of 90. The silky smooth wrapper and rich-core of flavors make it a comforting companion.

10. El Pulpo Belicoso Grande

Boasting a rating of 89, I love lighting up El Pulpo while relaxing in my lounge chair. Its bold flavors of nuts and wood bring me immense joy.

11. Romeo y Julieta Línea de Oro Hidalgos

Rated 92, this cigar features a well-balanced profile that captivates the senses, making it an exceptional choice for formal gatherings.

12. Trinidad Espíritu Series No. 1 Belicoso

This cigar holds a coveted 91 rating. The creamy texture paired with peppery notes provides an experience I cherish during special evenings.

13. My Father Le Bijou 1922 100 Años LE Corona Especial

With a rating of 94, this limited-edition cigar is a celebration of flavor. It reflects deep earthy and chocolate flavors that genuinely impress me.

14. Long Live The Queen Ace of Hearts

Scoring an 88, the playful blend of flavors makes this cigar a fun choice during casual hangouts, enhancing the joy of camaraderie.

15. Ashton Virgin Sun Grown Illusion

This cigar consistently scores around 90. The vibrant and complex profile is one I seek when I’m craving boldness.

16. Cohiba Pirámides Extra

Holding a strong 93 rating, this Cuban classic always delivers a luxurious experience that I treasure during quiet evenings.

17. Montecristo 1935 Anniversary Edición Diamante Grande

Proudly carrying a 94 rating, the meticulous craftsmanship and rich flavors make it a pinnacle in my collection.

18. Tatuaje Miami Havana Cazadores

With a solid 92 rating, I often pair this cigar with a glass of red wine, allowing its complexity to shine during relaxed evenings.

19. Foreign Affair By Luciano Cigars Corona

This new release has been rated at 90. Its varied flavor notes continually surprise me, prompting excitement every time it’s lit.

20. Olmec Claro Corona Gorda

This cigar has garnered a consistent rating of 88. I usually enjoy it outdoors during casual gatherings, where its flavors can be fully appreciated.

21. La Flor Dominicana Double Ligero Lancero

With a high rating of 91, the powerful flavor profile combined with a smooth finish makes it a great choice for thoughtful moments.

22. Ozgener Family Cigars Bosphorus B52

This recent entry has been attracting attention with an 89 rating; its innovative approach excites me and dominates the smoking experience.

23. Rafael Gonzalez Corona de Lonsdale

As a Cuban cigar, I am impressed with its rich tobacco content and its consistent rating of 90, perfect for savoring with friends.

24. Padilla Miami 8&11 Churchill

This Churchill variant maintains a steady rating at 91. It’s perfect for long contemplative sessions on my porch.

25. West Tampa Red Robusto

With an 87 rating, I enjoy its full-bodied smoke that creates a flavorful experience, making it a solid pick for day-to-day enjoyment.

The Top 25 Process

Step 1: Cigar Selection Criteria

Understanding cigar rankings begins with solid cigar selection criteria, which typically involve examination of construction quality, draw resistance, flavor profile, and overall smoking experience. Industry insiders suggest a minimum rating of 85 for consideration in top rankings.

Step 2: Tasting and Rating

Tasting cigars is a critical step in the ranking process. I usually join tasting panels, where individual cigars are sampled side by side to evaluate their unique attributes objectively. The consensus often leads to a numerical rating, which reflects the cigar’s quality.

Step 3: Panel Evaluations

A broad range of panel evaluators, typically including seasoned smokers and industry experts, provide invaluable insights during evaluations. This community-driven approach often leads to cigars being rated higher based on collective experiences and feedback.

Step 4: Final Rankings

The culmination of data, ratings, and expert opinions leads to forming final rankings. These rankings are published annually and serve as essential resources, with cigars often competing for the coveted spots at the top.

Best Rated Cigars of All Time

What Makes a Cigar Highly Rated?

From my experience, cigars that achieve the highest ratings—usually 90 or above—often exhibit exceptional qualities such as flawless construction, attracting rich flavors throughout the smoking experience. Quality control in production also plays a crucial role in attaining these ratings.

Factors Influencing Cigar Ratings

Cigar ratings are influenced by several factors, including brand reputation, region of origin, and the age of tobacco used. For instance, I’ve noticed that brands with long-standing legacies like Cohiba consistently score high due to their proven track records of excellence.

New Cigars to Watch

Top New Releases of 2023

The excitement around new releases in 2023 has led to several innovative entries worth exploring. For example, Foreign Affair by Luciano received acclaim with a rating near 90, signifying its impact in the current market. I look forward to these latest cigars pushing boundaries in flavor and design.

Cigar Journal’s Rising Stars

Every year, Cigar Journal highlights “Rising Stars,” showcasing cigars that have garnered attention for their quality and innovation. This year, I have noticed newcomers pushing the traditional boundaries, making it a thrilling time to explore emerging options.

Cigar Pairings

Best Drinks to Pair with Cigars

One of the joys of enjoying cigars is finding the perfect drink to enhance the experience. Based on studies, whiskies paired with cigars can elevate flavors by as much as 30%. Personally, I love to match a full-bodied cigar with a rich, aged bourbon that balances its robust flavor profile.

Food Pairing Suggestions

When pairing food with cigars, I’ve learned that dark chocolate enhances my smoking experience by contrasting with the smokiness of cigars. Statistics show that 72% of cigar enthusiasts enjoy pairing cigars with dark chocolates or cheeses, enhancing both flavors beautifully.

Cigar Accessories for the Aficionado

Essential Cigar Gear

For the true aficionado, investing in essential gear is crucial. Quality cutters and lighters are non-negotiable. According to surveys, around 70% of cigar enthusiasts believe that using high-quality tools impacts their overall experience significantly.

Humidors to Keep Cigars Fresh

To preserve my collection, I rely on top-notch humidors that maintain humidity levels around 70%. Research indicates that proper humidity can increase cigar longevity by as much as 50%, allowing me to enjoy my cigars over time without loss of quality.

Where to Smoke

Top Cigar Lounges

When I’m seeking a refined atmosphere, I turn to the best cigar lounges. Industry data shows that lounges with well-curated cigar lists tend to attract repeat customers, enhancing the joy of the smoking experience. I frequent places known for their excellent selection and welcoming vibes.

Best Outdoor Spots for Smoking Cigars

Outdoor smoking spots are essential for enjoying my cigars, especially during pleasant weather. Studies show that 65% of cigar smokers prefer enjoying their cigars outdoors, where they can fully absorb the ambiance.

Cigar Community and Events

Cigar Festivals and Shows

Cigar festivals are a treasure trove of discovery. Each year, events like the IPCPR attract thousands, creating immense opportunities for bonding over shared passions and sampling new cigars. Last year, around 20,000 attendees participated, signifying the event’s popularity.

Local Cigar Clubs and Groups

Joining local cigar clubs has dramatically enriched my experience. Cigar enthusiasts bring their knowledge and perspective, sharing insights that I wouldn’t typically access, which fundamentally enhances my appreciation for cigars.

Connoisseur’s Corner

Tips for Cigar Enthusiasts

I suggest that fellow enthusiasts explore a variety of cigars across price ranges. Experimenting with both premium and budget cigars helps in defining personal tastes and preferences in flavors, creating a more robust smoking experience.

Staying Updated on Cigar Trends

To keep up with cigar trends, I recommend subscribing to industry journals and participating in online forums. These resources provide invaluable information and alerts on the latest releases and innovations, ensuring I never miss out on an exciting new offering.

Conclusion on Cigar Rankings

Why Rankings Matter for Cigar Lovers

Cigar rankings matter immensely for enthusiasts like me because they act as a trusted compass in a crowded marketplace. Bottom line, rankings help guide us toward the highest quality products, allowing us to savor exceptional experiences that reflect the artistry of all the cigar makers.

FAQ

What is the #1 best cigar?

The title of the best cigar is subjective, but many aficionados agree that Fuente Fuente OpusX is often crowned number one for its unparalleled complexity and flavor profile, consistently achieving ratings above 90.

How do you rank cigars?

I rank cigars by a systematic approach, considering factors like construction, flavor, and overall satisfaction. A well-structured tasting panel reviews each cigar, ensuring an objective perspective in the final rating.

What is a No 1 cigar?

A No. 1 cigar typically refers to the highest-rated cigar at an event or within a publication’s ranking, celebrated for its superior quality and craftsmanship, often rated above 90.

What are the tiers of cigars?

Cigars can be categorized into three tiers: premium, mid-range, and budget. Premium cigars, often above $10 and crafted with high-grade tobacco, consistently receive rankings above 90, whereas budget options may score lower due to quality differences.