The Expert Review Library

You can't beat a combo like H. Upmann and AJ Fernande. This hearty long-filler blend of Criollo 98 and Piloto Cubano tobaccos gets finished with smooth Ecuadorian Sumatra wrapper provides notes of roasted nuts, spice, and cocoa. Very Cuban-esque, it's easy to see why this one has a '90' rating. Pair it with an Old-Fashioned and see why this legendary brand is so well respected.

As one of Camacho's best-selling blends, this one is always in my rotation. Rumor has it, it took 84 attempts to perfect the final blend and it shows. The all-Maduro blend packs a ton of flavor.  The uber-rich delivers notes of coffee, dark chocolate, and hints of spice on the finish. Pairs well with coffee, but save this one for dessert after you have a big, juicy steak. Pair with a red wine for maximum benefits.

Intricate details on the band showcase the cigar's inspiration: Columbus' 1492 voyage. This box-pressed puro uses tobaccos from all four Nicaraguan growing regions: it's as diverse as the landscape it represents! New World was the first blend AJ made with his father in his own factory; medium to full-bodied, it's spicy, sweet, and very satisfying.

Debuting in 2021, Rocky's White Label has flown under the radar a bit. Is it any wonder? With an award-winning portfolio like Rocky's, it can be hard to stand out. But something tells me this gem is about to get noticed. A combination of Nicaraguan and Honduran tobaccos is finished with a silky-smooth Connecticut Shade wrapper. Expect notes of cedar, earth, and hints of vanilla.

The concept of Legend is to acknowledge those who built the Partagas name; the blend, however, is 100% modern. Connecticut Broadleaf wrapper, Honduran Olancho San Agustin binder, Dominican Piloto long-fillers...Medium to full-bodied, it's teeming with baking spice, leather, cocoa, and some sweetness. Rather complementary alongside a dark red wine like Syrah/Shiraz.

With a patriotic foot band, there’s no mistaking the importance of U.S.-grown tobacco to this blend. Formerly called the “Double Connecticut,” its wrapper is Shade and the binder Broadleaf. Mellow but never boring, its notes of baking spice, white pepper, cedar, and hops allow for pairings with a crisp beer or even a nice tea.

Poised as the blend that introduced the world to Brazilian wrappers, it took five years of research to make the ‘91’-rated Brazilia a reality. Despite its size, the full-bodied Gol! is rich on the palate, very earthy with a complex boutique of nuts, spices, toast, and floral bouquet. A fantastic follow-up to a great meal.

I implore you to give a good, hard look at the wrapper on this one. Stunning. Simply one of the smoothest Connecticut wrappers I’ve ever seen. But what else would you expect from Nick Perdomo? This Nicaraguan-made treat offers warm notes of cedar, spice, and hints of vanilla on the finish. Smooth enough for the morning, flavorful enough to end the evening, this gem will hit the spot for any enthusiast!

Ferio Tego’s Metropolitan Host Maduro flies a little under the radar. Born from the Nat Sherman brand, I think this brand is overlooked simply because its been on the market for decades. But there’s also a reason it’s been around so long. Smooth, consistent notes of milk chocolate, earth, and faint hints of spice on the finish. This is one smooth Maduro! Pair with a nice bourbon for best results. 

AJ Fernandez more than earns his Master Blender title with this ‘91’-rated blend. Due to the dark Brazilian Mata Fina wrapper, the Maduro is bolder than its predecessor, but no complaints here. There’s a nice spicy-sweetness due to the interplay between earth and pepper underneath sweeter nuances of almond, cocoa, and vanilla. Remarkably even burn.

I love a good morning cigar, and Connecticut-wrapped blends are perfect with a cup of coffee. Of course, it doesn’t hurt that this gem was blended by the legendary AJ Fernandez. Hailing from AJ’s factory in Nicaragua, La Gran Llave Connecticut is draped in an Ecuador Connecticut Shade wrapper concealing top-notch Nicaraguan long-fillers. This mellow to medium-bodied blend delivers creamy notes of cashew, hazelnut, and coffee.

CAO has consistently been one of my favorite brands for a long time now. But one cigar in their portfolio that always seems to be overlooked is the ‘91’ rated CAO Nicaragua. Made with long-fillers from three of Nicaragua’s prime growing regions and covered with a dark Jamastran wrapper, this premium possesses a beautiful balance of strength and flavor. A complex profile offers notes of dark chocolate, black pepper, roasted nuts, and a dried fruit sweetness.

This ‘90’-rated Nicaraguan puro made by AJ Fernandez looks modern, but it’s really an homage to the famous blends that came out of Havana during the late ‘60s to early ‘70s. Medium to full-bodied, an attractive chocolate-brown wrapper greets the senses before paving way for a flavor profile laden with notes of pepper, vanilla, coffee bean, citrus, and toast.

I simply can’t resist La Gloria Cubana Spanish Press. These Dominican-made premiums are chock full of tobaccos from Nicaragua, the Dominican Republic, and Mexico’s San Andrés Valley capped off with a redolent Nicaraguan Jalapa wrapper. Savor every moment as this medium-bodied cigar is rich with notes of earth, red licorice, black pepper, raisin, and baking spice. Fire up a steak and pair this with a nice bourbon…you’ll thank me.

Oliva’s catalog of blends is legendary. And personally, I love a good Cameroon-wrapped cigar, so this one was a no-brainer for me. A hearty but balanced handmade, Serie ‘G’ is packed with Nicaraguan tobaccos and gives off notes of leather, cedar, and coffee. To top it off, the genuine Cameroon wrapper offers hints of sweetness throughout. Pair this gem with some bourbon and you have a match made in heaven.

When AJ Fernandez was asked to blend a Nicaraguan puro for Montecristo, it resulted in this ‘93’-rated, #10 of 2018. Notes of earth, hay, red pepper, red berries, cedar, and sweet hickory in this medium-bodied blend provide a new take on that classic Monte experience. Construction is flawless, with the right amount of pull on the draw.

The Rocky Patel Vintage 1999 Connecticut is another outstanding cigar in the Vintage series and an excellent any-time-of-day cigar. This mild to medium-bodied smoke features a seven-year-aged Connecticut Shade wrapper, encasing a Nicaraguan binder and a complex blend of Nicaraguan and Dominican Ligero fillers, giving this cigar rich notes of cream, nuts, and toast. It’s the perfect pre-dinner cigar to pair with an Apple Spiced Martini.

One of Gurkha’s most limited releases, Yakuza never fails to impress. A hefty helping of Ligero tobaccos makes for a potent base that gets finished with dark, oily Ecuadorian Habano wrapper. This full-bodied treat definitely hits the spot after a stressful day. But even with Yakuza’s power, there’s a subtle balance that makes for a smooth, rich finish. Pour yourself a glass of single malt and kick back with this limited release!

Ave Maria’s portfolio is always in my rotation. And that should be no surprise, with every cigar being produced under the watchful eye of AJ Fernandez. But the one that stands out to me is Ave Maria Divinia. One of the brand’s top-shelf o¬fferings, Divinia is packed with Nicaraguan tobaccos and finished with a Sun Grown Nicaraguan wrapper. Notes of earth, coffee, cocoa, and almonds round out this perfectly-balanced beauty.

The Romeo y Julieta Reserve is a ‘90’-rated blend handmade in Honduras from premium Nicaraguan and Honduran binder and filler tobaccos covered by an oily Nicaraguan wrapper leaf. This perfect blend of premium tobaccos gives this cigar notes of leather, cinnamon, and almonds. The Churchill size is perfect for the golf course and afterwards pairs well with a Continental Sour.

Man O’ War is typically known for their full-flavored, Nicaraguan blends and this gem does nothing to dispel that. This hefty 6.0”x60 box-pressed treat comes packed with a bevy of Nicaraguan and Honduran Ligero tobaccos and is finished with thick, dark Ecuadorian Habano wrapper. Expect notes of leather and earth with hints of dark chocolate and spice on the finish.

Here’s your everyday Habano! This medium to full-bodied treat delivers a plethora of flavor without being over-powering. Starting with a blend of Dominican and Nicaraguan tobaccos, this beauty is finished with an Ecuadorian Habano wrapper that supplies ample notes of cedar, pepper, and hints of cream on the finish. Pair it with a spiced rum and cola cocktail and never look back.

This ‘93’ rated spin-off of the original Black Market was Cigar Aficionado’s #9 of 2018. Sourcing prime tobaccos from the Plasencia family, this handmade utilizes a double binder (Honduras and Nicaragua) amid a Nicaraguan wrapper and long-filler bunch. Medium to full-bodied, it contains a consistent woodiness, with notes of caramel, cashew, cocoa, and a bit of raisin on the finish.

5 Vegas is a brand that delivers fantastic value for a premium brand. Cigars that will easily fit into your daily rotation. 5 Vegas Cask Strength weighs in as the strongest blend in their best-selling portfolio. The blend consists of all-Ligero tobaccos that are finished with a red-hued Nicaraguan wrapper. You’re going to want to want to have a full stomach for this powerhouse!

The Kristoff Maduro is a boutique-made premium that does not lack flavor. This full-bodied cigar is everything a premium cigar should be. It has a Brazilian Maduro wrapper, Cuban-seed Dominican Olor binder and fillers from the Dominican Republic and Nicaragua. With notes of toasted nuts, spice, and a slight bit of sweetness on the finish, the Kristoff Maduro pairs perfectly with a classic brandy Sidecar.

The ‘93’ rated Caldwell The King is Dead sources some of finest and most unique Dominican tobaccos. Medium-bodied and well-constructed to provide a thick, balanced smoke, this premium exudes notes of cedar, earth, chocolate, and subtle hints of spice. This is a great cigar to pair with a cup of coffee, or your favorite libation!

El Diario in this instance means “daily,” so welcome to your everyday La Palina indulgence. This ‘93’ rated blend gets its spice from the top-choice Nicaraguan long-fillers, and its natural sweetness is courtesy of the Honduran Rosado wrapper. Offering up dense smoke and a fluid draw, expect notes of earth, cedar, pepper, nuts, and stone fruits.

Normally, when you attach AJ’s name to a blend, it instantly puts it on the map. But La Herencia Cubana’s CORE line still flies under the radar. Why? As one of AJ Fernandez’s earlier releases, AJ’s celebrity hadn’t taken off quite yet. But let me tell you, this one deserves your attention. A bold, rich beauty ripe with notes of dark chocolate, spice, and hints of cashews.

I admit, I’m not much of a morning person. So I definitely need that cup of coffee when I wake up. But what’s a good cup of coffee without a cigar to pair with it? And there’s few better than Toraño’s Casa Toraño. A smooth, mellow classic that provides crisp notes of almonds, earth, and hints of cream on the finish.

The Camacho Pre-Embargo cigar is a truly unique gem that needs to have a place in your humidor. This flavorful cigar is covered in a Jamastran Corojo 99 wrapper leaf which encases Honduran tobaccos and a few leaves of pre-embargo Cuban tobacco. Giving this cigar a rich, medium-bodied smoke with notes of cocoa, nuts, and cedar. To pair with this beauty, I suggest a Negroni.

Its tough to pick a favorite amongst Rocky Patel’s award-winning portfolio. The ‘95’ rated Decade, the Edge series, the Vintage blends…all good choices! But I keep coming back to the ‘94’ rated Royale. A bold Nicaraguan blend finished with a silky-smooth Ecuadorian Sumatra wrapper that produces rich notes of roasted nuts, pepper, oak, sweet cream, cacao, and caramel throughout.

The after-dinner cigar gets all the credit. To me, it’s the morning cigar that gets me going. Pour a nice cup of coffee, fire up a Connecticut-wrapped gem, and gather my thoughts…an exceptional way to start the day. So, this month’s Alec Bradley Connecticut really resonates with me. A complex blend of Honduran and Nicaraguan tobaccos finished with a seamless Ecuadorian Connecticut wrapper. 

This ‘93’ rated premium marked the golden anniversary of the Toraño Exodus line – a blend commemorating all cigar families forced to flee Cuba. A toothy Brazilian Arapiraca wrapper atop long-fillers from two prized Nicaraguan regions dance on the palate with notes of earth, baking spice, black pepper, and turbinado. Medium to full-bodied, a long finish awaits all who enjoy it.

It’s pretty easy to get behind this one, huh? Nothing says 4th of July like a CAO America! But all patriotism aside, this cigar is the real deal. This ‘92’ rated stunner comes equipped with a four-country blend of tobaccos finished with a sleek barber pole wrapper (maduro and Connecticut). Starting off with a hearty spice, the blend transitions to a rich dark chocolate note while offering brief notes of vanilla throughout.

As the first Cohiba with roots in Nicaragua, this '91' rated blend is worth toasting to again and again! Constructed with elegant complexity, this premium produces ample amounts of smoke and releases hearty flavors of leather, cedar, and pepper on the palate—all thanks to its Nicaraguan binder, long-fillers, and Honduran Jamastran Colorado Oscuro wrapper.

The most premium blend in the AVO family, XO hails from Davidoff's famed Tabadom Factory. A complex array of cream, wood, nuts, and dried fruit subtly unfold on the palate thanks to its five-country tobacco blend. This medium-bodied cigar has a spicy finish, and I enjoy my AVO XO alongside a sturdy Rye served neat.

Perdomo 10th Anniversary Champagne is definitely worth a spot in your humidor. Not a wimpy Connecticut, this mellow to medium-bodied smoke has an Ecuadorian Connecticut wrapper and Cuban-seed Nicaraguan binder and filler, giving it a rich, smooth smoke with notes of cream, oak, and cedar. The perfect cocktail for this cigar is a Kentucky Mule.

Buffalo Trace begins with a mix of Nicaraguan long-fillers and barrel-aged Piloto Cubano tobaccos nestled beneath a Brazilian Arapiraca binder, all finished off with a gorgeous Ecuadorian Sumatra wrapper. Potent, yet incredibly balanced, this beauty literally bursts at the seams with flavors of leather, cedar, spice, vanilla, and a hint of nuttiness. You've got to try this one!

'91' rated by Cigar Aficionado, Diesel Whiskey Row Sherry Cask lives up to all its accolades. Much of this blend's unique flavor originates from the Brazilian Arapiraca binder, which has been aged in barrels previously containing the finest Sherry wines. The result is a full-flavored sensation that bursts with notes of fruit, cocoa, and licorice!

More than a favorite, this Monte is a '94' rated homerun. Stepping up to the plate in confidence, Montecristo Platinum is fitted with a Nicaraguan Habano wrapper and Nicaraguan, Peruvian, and Dominican long-fillers. This leads to one extraordinary result: a plethora of cashew, almond, and coffee nuances with slight spice throughout—a true pastime for any fan.

'92' rated, extensively-aged long-fillers set the tone for a richer, bolder La Gloria Cubana. This initial line extension is still popular 23 years after its release, and the No.4 is a vitola for those who still prefer classic sizing. Expect sweet cedar, spice, earth, citrus peel, and a floral bouquet with an even burn.

This '92' rated gem ranked Cigar Aficionado's Top 25. Made in Nicaragua with an Ecuadorian Sumatra wrapper and Nicaraguan binder and filler gives it complex notes of wood, vanilla bean, and toasted nuts with a smooth caramel finish. I'm breaking out the bourbon for this one and pairing it with a Scofflaw cocktail.

The medium-bodied Ave Maria Holy Grail is rich, refined, and full in flavor. Beneath the golden Connecticut leaf and San Andrés binder are rich Nicaraguan long-fillers which lends their way to subtle notes of cream, cedar, oak, and hints of buttery toast on the finish. Another divine blend from Ave Maria—satisfying on every level.

Having tried most ACID blends, 20 was not only unique compared to the rest of the portfolio, but also considerably more luxurious. Medium-bodied with a sweet-tipped Mexican San Andrés wrapper, this box-pressed beauty exudes notes of milk chocolate, cinnamon, and welcomed natural tobacco flavors. ACID 20 is an appropriate homage to the brand's eminent history.

The complexity of the Cuban-seed Nicaraguan long-fillers presents bold notes on the palate, which are complemented by a natural sweetness thanks to the cigar's Nicaraguan Maduro wrapper. This richly-balanced, box-pressed premium delivers a slow, even burn with a long finish—a '93' rated blend that is sure to have you falling head over foot!

Comprised of top crops aged four years plus an extra year in rum barrels, it's an exotic mix of Dominican, Brazilian, and Cameroonian tobaccos capped with a Cameroon-seed wrapper grown under Ecuadorian skies. Notes of black peppercorn are underscored by wheat, leather, and sugar, culminating in a warm, salt-and-pepper-like finish. This medium-bodied Perfecto never disappoints.

Another winner from cigar industry icon, AJ Fernandez, Hoyo La Amistad Gold is a '90' rated medium to full-bodied smoke packed with flavor. The Ecuadorian Habano wrapper drapes a complex Nicaraguan binder and filler producing earthy notes of spice, cocoa, and pepper—perfect for an early evening smoke paired with a vodka Ruby cocktail.

Graycliff always delivers, and their 10-Year Vintage Maduro is no exception! This medium-bodied beauty is comprised of Honduran and Nicaraguan long-fillers that are masterfully-wrapped in an almost seamless, dark, oily and gorgeous wrapper. A creamy smoke from start to finish with notes of cedar, espresso, and cocoa throughout. A must-try!

At first glance, the oily Connecticut Broadleaf covering Partagas Legend tells a story about the luxurious experience it delivers. I was completely enthralled in the rich, spicy, leathery notes exuded by the Dominican Piloto Cubano long-fillers, followed by some delightful sweetness on the finish. Pairing these premiums with your favorite bourbon is also highly recommended!

This AJ blend is "all the rage" with its dark, oily Ecuador Habano Sun Grown Oscuro wrapper and Cuban-seed long-fillers from his farms in Estelí. This perfectly-powered blend brings attention to rich notes of cedar and spice which is rounded out by a creamy finish. Diesel Rage is one class act you don't want to miss.

The team at Alec Bradley realized a mellow to medium-bodied blend was missing within the Black Market portfolio: enter Vandal "The Con". Utilizing a Connecticut-seed wrapper grown on Honduran soil, this smooth premium showcases coffee bean, roasted almonds, citrus peel, and hints of black pepper that will satisfy the palates of enthusiasts and aficionados alike.

Governor's Private Blend is another Gurkha gem. This cigar features an Ecuadorian Habano wrapper, Dominican binder, and Columbian Corojo filler. Once lit, this medium to full-bodied smoke features complex notes of cedar, spice, and coffee. Very smooth, well-rounded, and perfect to enjoy with hot Spiced Apple Twinings of London Chai Tea with Jim Beam Whiskey.

A medium-bodied blend from CAO that is perfect for any time of day? Yes, please! The perfectly-aged Nicaraguan and Dominican tobaccos are masterfully nestled beneath a decadent Connecticut Broadleaf Maduro wrapper. From start to finish, I love the richness and underlying hints of chocolate throughout—one of my "go-to" maduro's and must-have for my humidor.

Zino Platinum Scepter Series exceeded all my very high expectations. This '91'-rated cigar is incredibly smooth, creamy, buttery, and produces billowing clouds of smoke. While that was all exceptionally satisfying, the piquant notes of coffee, cocoa, and nuts really ran the show. However, simply telling you about this gem doesn't do it justice, try it!

Coming from one of the most prestigious cigar facilities in operation, AVO Heritage is worth every bit of your time. This remarkable '90' rated blend conveys rich, complex flavors thanks to its Cuban-seed Dominican long-fillers. At its core are toasty nuances of cocoa, with hints of sweet cedar and subtle spice to complete the experience.

This '92' rated blend is special. For starters, it's the only non-Cuban Cohiba legally allowed to bear the trademark. Perhaps more pertinent, its Cameroon wrapper provides a rich profile of earth, cocoa, pepper, nuts, and caramel. It took five years' worth of blending to get this cigar just right, and the diligence has paid off.

Romeo y Julieta Reserva Real is a creamy smoke that's a must-have. The Connecticut Shade Ecuadorian wrapper is enhanced by the Nicaraguan binder and Dominican and Nicaraguan long-fillers, resulting in notes of roasted nuts and slight spice on the finish. On a chilly night, I like to pair this with a Maple Old Fashioned.

What happens when master minds and blenders of the LAdC team get together? I'll tell you what happens: a star is born! La Aroma de Cuba Mi Amor Reserva Maximo is filled and bound with aged Nicaraguan tobaccos, and a Mexican Oscuro wrapper which elevates the experience—box-pressed and full of rich flavors, this cigar can't be beat.

As the Maduro take on Caldwell's Eastern Standard line, Midnight Express delivers the medium to full-bodied experience we expect. At first take, the cold draw provides sweet aromas with notes of cocoa and cedar, but once lit, this premium exudes saltiness, zest, and a spicy, smoky oak flavor on the finish. This is an essential!

This '94' rated rocky Patel is the ideal companion for the fall. Its oily Habano wrapper and Nicaraguan long-fillers presents a robust profile which lends itself to a long, yet sweet and savory finish. Bold but balanced, this premium brings forth toasty nuances, which complements the cool, crisp air perfectly—a must-have for the season!

Featuring Mexican San Andrés binder leaves aged in former Rabbit Hole bourbon barrels, AJ Fernandez devised a proprietary process to impart residual nuances evenly among the tobacco. The result? A medium-bodied blend with notes of oak, cream, white pepper, baking spice, and sweet cedar. Cheers to AJ, and here's hoping he continues being an innovator!

If you're looking for a medium to full-bodied cigar that's smooth, look no further than E.P. Carrillo Capa de Sol. Featuring a sun Grown Ecuadorian Habano wrapper surrounding choice Nicaraguan binder and fillers, this blend gives you wonderful notes of coffee, cocoa, and a slight peppery finish—perfect to pair with a premium brandy, neat of course.

Room101 Muzzle Loader has an extraordinary Nicaraguan wrapper surrounding a delicious blend of Mexican and Nicaraguan tobaccos. This well-constructed beauty is what you would expect coming out of AJ's factory. Hefty in size, producing a nice, firm ash that holds together, this premium is a must-try with notes of leathery goodness and hints of cream and cedar.

As one the only cigars that utilizes Italian-grown long-filler tobaccos, CAO Italia delivers a truly unique experience. The Habano Maduro wrapper shimmers in the light, while also displaying a damp, oily texture. Upon ignition, this medium-bodied beauty burns like a dream, providing thick, creamy smoke. Italia is a profoundly quintessential, yet distinctive CAO experience.

JC Newman kicks it up a notch with this bolder, zestier version of the original Brick House cigar. Featuring a Nicaraguan binder and Nicaraguan long-fillers, this beauty is encased in a dark, spicy Brazilian Arapiraca Maduro wrapper. From first draw until finish, this cigar delivers with notes of cocoa, spice, pepper, and hints of natural sweetness.

I was pleasantly surprised with the '92' rated HC Series Connecticut. Well-rounded, complex flavors within the tri-country blend of tobaccos from Costa Rica, Mexico, and Nicaragua certainly made up for the full-bodied profile I have grown accustomed to, while the Ecuador Connecticut wrapper kept the smoke smooth on the palate—a risk worth taking!

La Aroma de Cuba Edicion Especial is '94' rated for good reasons. Medium to full-bodied, a high-priming Ecuadorian Habano wrapper gives intense woody notes. The Nicaraguan binder and fillers round it out well, with deep flavors of cocoa and espresso. As the nights start to get chilly, Edicion Especial would pair nicely with a Sazerac.

Cedrus easily takes the throne as Southern Draw's most distinct cigar blend. Beneath its Indonesian wrapper is a gorgeous medley of aromatic tobaccos which impart complex notes from start to finish. A considerable amount of spice complements notes of cocoa, espresso, and a sweet, fruity finish that is simply divine. Cigars like Cedrus never disappoint!

Cohiba Black Robusto is what maduro dreams are made of! The gorgeous dark, oily Connecticut Broadleaf wrapper piqued my interest, along with a Dominican Politico binder and Dominican long-fillers, which are aged for 3 years in large tercios. Upon first draw, I experienced notes of spice, licorice, and wood with hints of natural sweetness.

New to the Mark Twain portfolio, Riverboat is the perfect summertime selection. With both a Connecticut and Maduro wrapper, this barber pole-style premium presents robust Nicaraguan binder and long-fillers — experience notes of earth, toast, cedar, and sweet spice. Medium in body, this blend brings forth a subtle boldness that inspires both your palate and senses.

Sometimes I want a medium-full-flavor profile without the fuller-body, and that’s why I love the Joya de Nicaragua Antaño Connecticut. There’s still a woody, sweet-and-spicy interplay; however, the Ecuadorian CT wrapper adds a creamy note, taking this premium down to medium-bodied. ‘93’ rated, expect an even burn, draw, and to always have this cigar on-hand.

La Palina Red Label is a ‘92’ rated gem from the Dominican Republic. This mellow-medium-bodied beauty features an Ecuadorian Habano wrapper, Ecuadoran binder, and aged long-fillers from Nicaragua and the Dominican Republic. There is subtle spice with notes of pepper, wood, cocoa that make this cigar a summertime treat, especially with a nice Rye cocktail.

As the summer looms closer, I get excited at the idea of kicking back on a hot afternoon with a cold drink and a great cigar. Enter the mellow to medium-bodied Room101 FARCE. Connecticut, with its seamless Ecuador Connecticut wrapper and smooth, earthy sweetness. Paired with your favorite whiskey or bourbon, this cigar optimizes relaxation.

'94' rated, and for good reason, ROMEO by RyJ contains a robust Ecuadorian Habano wrapper along with a blend of Dominican Olor and Piloto long-fillers that create a uniquely complex and balanced experience to the palate. Introduce your taste buds to notes of chewy leather and dried fruit, all accompanied by slight red pepper spice.

The harmony of two cigar legends (Avo Uvezian and Hendrik Kelner) plus long-aged tobacco is music to my ears. '90' rated by Cigar Aficionado, this blend is satisfying yet mellow, with notes of cream, coffee, soft spice, and graham cracker. The AVO Classic is made in the same factory as Davidoff, so high standards prevail.

This third installment of the Oliva Master Blend series should be a staple in your humidor. Oliva Master Blends III has notes of dark chocolate, coffee, and black pepper. Receiving its complexity from the Connecticut Broadleaf wrapper and robust Nicaraguan binder, this cigar pairs perfectly with 10-year-aged Bacardi Diez Gran Reserve rum.

Valkyrie presents itself brilliantly upon ignition, offering smooth, divine notes of coffee and cedar. however, beyond the creamy flavors and effortless draw of this mellow cigar exists a peppery spice so vehement it may surprise you upon arrival. Although, considering the mastermind behind this cigar's creation, all of this comes naturally with his creative talent.

San Lotano Oval Maduro is the perfect AJ Fernandez cigar, and one of my favorites! The dark, rich Connecticut Maduro wrapper adds the perfect amount of depth and goes beautifully with the Honduran and Nicaraguan long-fillers. Espresso and hints of cocoa are a hit, and finish on a sweet and lightly spiced note. A must try!

Montecristo Classic is perfect for anytime of day. A mixture of premium Dominican long-fillers and binder are nestled beneath an exquisite Connecticut Shade wrapper. I really enjoyed the hints of coffee, warm, subtle spice, and some nuttiness in this—super smooth from first draw, winding down with a woodsy, somewhat spicy finish.

Fashioned by AJ Fernandez, this decadent premium from Diesel features an Ecuador Habano Oscuro wrapper which perfectly covers lush Ligero leaves. An earthy richness is introduced to the palate and lends itself toward flavors of espresso, leather, and hints of black pepper. Bringing intensity to the experience, this cigar will surely captivate your heart and humidor.

Created by Master Blender Raul Disla, Latitude Zero is the very definition of premium. A small-batch wrapper with 11 year-old Cuban-seed long-fillers brings layered nuances of roasted nuts, pepper, oak, sweet cream, cacao, and caramel. Medium to full-bodied, it's a phenomenal everyday option for seasoned enthusiasts, harkening back to the early days of Liga Privada.

Alec Bradley American Sun Grown is a '91' rated, Nicaraguan puro that boasts earthy notes complemented by sweet hints of dark chocolate and a nutty finish. This cigar is the perfect everyday smoke for those who like a medium to full body profile. This dark and rich puro pairs perfectly with a nice Imperial Stout.

Cohiba Connecticut is the quintessential day on the green cigar. This lusciously smooth and creamy combination of Brazilian, Nicaraguan, and Dominican tobaccos is perfect from the inside-out. I was hit gracefully with notes of cocoa, spice, and an inviting hint of dried fruit. Cohiba Connecticut makes you sit back and reminisce on good times.

The Alec Bradley Black Market cigar is so creamy and smooth, you won't want to put it down! Medium-bodied, long-fillers from Honduras, Panama, and Nicaragua are secured with a tasty Sumatra binder and expertly rolled with a Nicaraguan Maduro wrapper. Experience notes of pepper, spice, licorice, and a touch of cream and cedar!

An indulgent, mellow to medium-bodied premium with notes of cedar, earth, nuts, and black pepper. How else would you expect the Grupo de Maestros to mark Upmann's 175th anniversary? Note the Maduro cap as it isn't for show: it creates a bolder, richer experience than any other Connecticut out there.

San Lotano Oval CT is a must-have in any enthusiasts' humidor. It is a mellow and smooth blend from AJ Fernandez featuring an Ecuadorian Connecticut Shade wrapper, with a blend of Nicaragua and Honduras binder and filler. This Connecticut is complex, with toasty notes and a creamy, nutty finish—pairs very will with a Northern Italian Pinot Noir.

The Victor Sinclair Serie '55' Imperial Connecticut is an outstanding mellow to medium-bodied cigar. Displaying some unrivaled consistency, the Toro size burns well every time and provides an effortless draw. The blend balances cream and spice brilliantly, making it the perfect stogie for a day on the golf course. This is vintage Victor Sinclair.

It makes sense that a legendary brand creates something new for enthusiasts who prefer fuller-bodied blends like you and me. Enter 5 Vegas Nicaragua: made by AJ Fernandez in Estelí, this premium packs a balanced punch of spice, coffee bean, cedar, and a hint of sweetness. A cigar that smokes as good as it looks.

This medium to full-bodied cigar uses tobaccos from four different regions. The Nicaraguan, Dominican, and Honduran fillers , along with an Ecuadorian Habano wrapper leads to notes of spicy sweetness, along with hints of oak, raisin, and cinnamon. This cigar delivers the punch you'd expect while being beautifully balanced. One for the books!

This Pennsylvania Broadleaf maduro-wrapped follow-up to the original release is the perfect addition to my humidor. Its Sumatran binder combined with Dominican long-fillers ensures a consistent complexity that is thoroughly satisfying from head to foot, presenting a savory flavor profile complemented with a subtle, natural sweetness.

This '90' rated beauty might be a Nicaraguan puro but its soul is Cuban. With notes of cedar, coffee, and a bit of spice, Plasencia Alma Del Campo will definitely find a home in your humidor. With a medium-bodied profile, pair this premium with a peaty Scotch like Laphroaig on a chilly evening.

Graycliff 10-Year Vintage Maduro is one I always have on-hand during the cold months. This premium handmade contains extensively-aged long-fillers from Nicaragua and Honduras, all draped with a fully-matured Connecticut Broadleaf wrapper—all leading to creamy notes of cocoa with an earthy core—a perfect holiday treat that's consistent through and through.

I always keep mellow premiums around, and 5 Vegas gold is a go-to blend. It smokes well, and looks good, too—a great gift option! With five-year-aged long-fillers, it's smooth, creamy, and contains notes of wood, nuts, and a bit of sugar and spice in-between. Perfect with Hudson Baby Bourbon before a hearty holiday meal.

This '91' rated beauty from Erik Espinosa is a medium to full-bodied smoke that tastes as good as it looks. 601 Green has a dark, oily Habano Oscuro wrapper blended with well-aged Cuban-seed tobaccos from Nicaragua. This blend yields complex flavors of earth, leather, and dark chocolate. Pair this cigar with Macallan Highland 12 year Single Malt Scotch.

Joya de Nicaragua Antaño Connecticut offers the subtle creaminess of a Connecticut Shade wrapper paired with the spice and punch you would expect from hearty Nicaraguan long-fillers. This versatile, medium to full-bodied smoke is full of body and flavor, pairing with everything from coffee to your favorite spirit on the rocks. A '93' rated must try!

Macanudo is one of he best brands in the world when it comes to combining fine tobaccos to create unforgettable flavors. Inspirado White is no exception to this notion, as it combines a perfect golden Connecticut Shade wrapper with Mexican and Nicaraguan fillers. Creamy coffee notes with spice in the finish, a truly beautiful blend!

This '95' rated super-premium has decadence written all over it. With Nicaraguan long-leaves from the country's top growing regions, Mi Amor has me falling in love over and over again with its dominant profile that's smooth and creamy from head to foot. Expect a long-lasting finish complemented with nuances of espresso, black pepper, and earthy undertones.

A welcomed change of pace from other Joya lines, Cabinetta is yin/yang personified. Its double wrapper still allows for a distinct Nicaraguan profile to shine, and its '90' rating is not just for a pretty face, either. A V-Cut is recommended to amplify the subtle nuances of cocoa, earth, coffee, spice, and brown sugar throughout.

This medium-bodied delight is comprised of aged Dominican fillers encased in a zesty Nicaraguan binder and wrapped to perfection with an Ecuadorian Habano leaf. Notes of spice and nuttiness entertain the palate from start to finish in this blend. An all-around fantastic smoke, this is one cigar great for any occasion!

La Gran Llave Connecticut is one of the greatest mellow cigars to date. Crafted in AJ Fernandez's Nicaraguan factory, this beauty oozes class. The Nicaraguan long-fillers offer notes of coffee, hazelnut, and cashews, creating an irresistible aroma. You will not forget the silky-smooth smoke this cigar presents, and the relaxing break from reality it celebrates.

Perdomo Reserve 10th Anniversary Champagne is celebration-worthy! Beneath the triple-fermented Connecticut Shade wrapper is a brilliant blend of Cuban-seed tobaccos grown in the rich soils of Nicaragua. Notes of coffee, wood, and hints of honey present themselves from start to finish, and create a luxurious, velvety-smooth, medium-bodied experience for all to enjoy.

This '95' rated delight starts with an oily Connecticut Broadleaf wrapper that covers dual binders and Nicaraguan long-fillers. Defining what it means to be a "full-bodied" cigar, this maduro keeps its construction along with a bold flavor profile from head to foot—prepare for a complex yet balanced experience. A true mainstay for full-bodied fanatics.

If you don't know by now, I love Pepín's handiwork. (As does Cigar Aficionado, who gave this blend a '93'.) This Nicaraguan puro made for Ashton is full-bodied with notes of spice, oak, leather, black cherry, and coffee. Watch out for slight hints of salt while smoking, however, as each instance signals a flavor transition.

Oliva Serie 'O' garnered multiple '90' plus ratings, and for good reason. This Nicaraguan puro is a perfect balance of tobaccos from three different growing regions in Nicaragua, giving it complex, layered flavors. With distinct notes of pepper, dark chocolate, and spice, this medium-bodied robusto pairs perfectly with an Italian espresso coffee or your favorite stout.

In typical AJ Fernandez fashion, the Diesel 10th Anniversary is nothing short of a masterpiece, managing to accomplish that signature full-bodied, full-flavored smoke to satisfy your palate. Dressed in an Ecuadorian Habano Oscuro wrapper, the blend has tremendous strength. With notes of dark chocolate and roasted coffee, this cigar was a delight to smoke.

This Top 25 premium is a staple for my summers! The highest primings of both the sun-grown Havana-seed wrapper and Honduran binder are carefully selected, setting the tone for one medium to full-bodied experience filled with round, spicy flavors featuring hints of cinnamon, making the '93' rated Punch Gran Puro prime for a perfect day.

When AJ was approached by Altadis' Grupo de Maestros to re-blend a classic, the result was a cigar rather befitting of today's audience. The Ecuador Sumatra wrapper brings out the nuttiness of the Corojo '99 binder, and a Criollo '98 plus Piloto Cubano filler yield plumes of nuanced smoke with a razor-sharp burn.

Camacho Connecticut is the mellowest in the Camacho portfolio, but don't take that for having a lack of flavor. This '90' rated gem has great balance, delivering notes of cedar, nuts, and a bit of pepper on the finish. Boasting an Ecuadorian Connecticut Shade wrapper, it's perfect when you're teeing off on the front 9.

Ave Maria is a well-respected Nicaraguan line, and the medium-bodied Ave Maria Immaculata is no exception to their fantastic standards. A delicious Connecticut wrapper houses its smooth, succulent blend. But don't be deceived, this cigar still manages to pack a punch. Graceful and refined, Immaculata revolutionizes Connecticut-wrapped cigars.

This follow-up to the '92' rated original is the perfect cigar to enjoy morning, noon, or night. The Dominican and Nicaraguan long-fillers are beautifully wrapped in an Ecuadorian Connecticut leaf, lending to a subtle and smooth smoke. Hints of nut, spice, and light pepper balance this blend perfectly for anytime enjoyment.

This box-pressed beauty by Alan Rubin is what comes to mind every time I'm in need of a premium that hits the spot. '96' rated, this lush blend burns slow and even, making way to a palatable treat filled with toasty nuances of leather, earth, and hints of chocolate. Spicy on the forefront, this premium offsets its power with some sweet nuances.

Many covet Cuban cigars, but I covet Nicaraguan made by Cuban ex-pats such as Jose Pepín García. '94' rated, this blend exemplifies excellence in quality, complexity, and delivery. A Cuban-seed Rosado wrapper plus Nicaraguan long-fillers equals full flavors of earth, leather, cashew, coffee bean, and an undertone of spice with a long, full finish.

Don Pepín García Blue is a smooth and rich powerhouse with a '93' rating from legendary Jose Pepín García. Blended in classic Cuban tradition at the prestigious My Father Factory, this all-Nicaraguan blend has notes of red peppers, cocoa, cedar, delivering a rich and spicy finish with a perfect draw. Pair perfectly with a single malt Scotch.

It's time to climb to a new level of flavor. Made by AJ Fernandez in Estelí, wrapped in a dark PA Broadleaf with potent long-fillers from Nicaragua, Jacob's Ladder is loaded with spices and savory notes of charred meat, red pepper, and leather. Ascend to a better tasting blend with this all-star from Robert Holt and Southern Draw.

One of Caldwell's finest offerings, earning a '93' rating—this balanced, medium-bodied smoke delivers on both complexity and consistency. Rare Dominican tobaccos blended together smooth with a toothy Dominican Negrito wrapper atop creates an earthy flavor complemented by slight nuances of cocoa, and just a hint of spice.

Smoke like a boss with CAO Consigliere! This tri-country blend of long-fillers are dressed in a dark, oily Brazilian Mata Fina maduro wrapper. Heavy on the palate, a nutty core is surrounded with hearty notes of earth and slight hints of cinnamon. Solid construction with an effortless draw, this premium is a bonafide showstopper!

Nicaraguan puros are some of my favorite cigars on the market, and the elegant look of this line extension exudes premium. A collaboration between AJ Fernandez and Rafael Nodal has resulted in notes of dark chocolate, espresso bean, dried berries, and cedar in a medium to full-bodied package. Supremely balanced.

La Aurora Preferidos Cameroon Platinum is a '91' rated smoke that should be a staple in any humidor. This beautifully-crafted figurado features a toothy Cameroon wrapper and specially aged Dominican binder and multinational filler. It's then aged several years in oak barrels, giving it notes of coffee and chocolate with a smooth, sweet, yet spicy finish.

Macanudo is known for consistency across the board, but their most consistently excellent cigar is Gold Label. Smooth, creamy, and with a hint of natural sweetness, this is one elegant Connecticut Shade-wrapped delight. If you like your cigars 'easy like Sunday morning', Macanudo Gold Label is a must-have for the humidor.

Blended by Master Blender Willy Herrera, this '91' rated smoke is a perfect example of a Connecticut Shade-wrapped cigar that isn't wimpy. The blend of Ecuadorian Connecticut wrapper, Sumatra binder, and Dominican and Nicaraguan fillers gives you lush and smooth flavors with notes of vanilla, cinnamon, and a pop of pepper.

A '91' rated cigar that is worthy of its name. Like a symphony, it comes together beautifully to create something greater than the sum of its parts. The creamy Connecticut wrapper drapes the rich Dominican binder and slightly spicy Nicaraguan filler to create a pronounced yet subtle experience sure to make anyone sing its praises.

Ave Maria is a classic, and is still one of my favorites. Nicaraguan fillers are wrapped up in an Ecuador Habano leaf, bringing in rich notes of leather and cedar, along with hints of earth. Certainly strong enough for a warrior, its smoothness is heavenly, and is an experience all can truly enjoy.

With a robust multi-country recipe of long-leaves beneath a spicy Habano wrapper, Toraño Exodus 1959 dishes out the delectability with cedary notes of cinnamon, leather, and tea. The complex and balanced profile impressed me...and then some. Go on your own cigar journey today, with Toraño as your guide.

'95' rated Rocky Patel Decade is beautifully constructed with Nicaraguan fillers and binder, then draped with a dark and oily Ecuadorian Sumatra wrapper. This box-pressed beauty is complex and well-balanced with flavors of bourbon, black pepper, and coffee, finishing with hints of ripened cherry. Perfect to pair with a nice stout on a chilly afternoon.

This premium is worth celebrating, as this was the initial brand made in the first cigar factory that opened in Nicaragua in 1969. Continuing to top the charts on my favorites list with its full-bodied profile, cedar and earth nuances, and spice on the finish, Antaño is perfect when you want to sit back and reminisce!

A medium-bodied cigar that showcases slight spice but is full on flavors, this '92' rated gem hits you with earth and leather from the first draw, turning into a nutty and woodsy sweetness on the finish. Complex throughout and wonderfully constructed, this is definitely one of La Aurora's finest offerings!

A slight break from the fuller-bodied blends I enjoy, this did not disappoint in the least bit! The seamless Ecuador Connecticut wrapper and Nicaraguan blend led to some pepper notes upfront. About 1/4 of the way through, hints of pepper were balanced out by a heavy, smooth draw, full of flavor in each puff.

Room 101 and my buddy AJ Fernandez pair up to make Miami Snow. An Ecuadorian CT wrapper drapes this Honduran puro bringing in a flavorful, creamy, mellow smoke with notes of nuts, cedar, and hints of pepper. You might not be able to build a snowman, but this is six inches of snow you won't have to shovel!

Reserva Real hits the mark with an unmistakably beautiful, golden Ecuadorian Connecticut leaf, while the Nicaraguan and Dominican blend surpasses expectations with an amazing combination of mellow complexity which generates profound flavors that excite the taste buds. Make sure to keep them on hand in your humidor!

This mellow addition to the Montecristo name has earned every point of its '91' rating. Its smooth, earthy Ecuadorian Connecticut wrapper complements the Dominican and Nicaraguan tobaccos inside. You'll taste the complexity of each region this smoke is made of when you experience the exquisite draw and smooth finish!

I love three things more than anything: my dog Yogi the Bear, my cat Lemmy...the Cat, and my backyard hammock. A close 4th is a good Shade-wrapped cigar, and Brick House Connecticut is one I keep going back to again and again. Burning slow, smooth, and creamy, this Nicaraguan-made beauty finishes crisp and clean every time!

Before I get carried away, let's admire the premium at hand: A San Andrés wrapper, Ecuador Sumatra binder, and long-fillers from Nicaragua and the Dominican. As for the flavors, prepare your palate for a rich, satisfying experience filled with notes of black cherry, coffee, cocoa, and hints of spice—this is one for the books!

Drew Estate wins my heart again with another full-bodied blend. Nica Rustica comes on strong as a Nicaraguan puro hugged in a Connecticut Broadleaf, bringing in notes of earth, spice, and coffee that builds throughout. Rough but refined, Drew Estate Nica Rustica is never a tough decision when it comes to enjoying a great cigar.

Expertly crafted with a multiple-fermented Connecticut Broadleaf wrapper. The blend is comprised of long-leaf fillers from 5 different regions and makes for a complex yet well-balanced smoke! I really enjoyed the waves of subtle sweetness with hints of chocolate throughout. It was delicious and unexpected—in my Top 5 for sure!

This dark delight from Flores y Rodriguez is on FyR! (Literally as I'm enjoying one right now.) Packed to the brim with a tri-country recipe of top-tier tobaccos, expect a deep, rich profile. Note first the big, bold nuances of coffee and sweet cedar, then flip your wig over the decadent chocolate-covered raisin finish.

H. Upmann 1844 Reserve made a lasting impression in my group of handmades. This cigar performed like a champion with top-notch construction. The deep, ample tobacco flavors from the tri-country long-filler blend of Peruvian, Nicaraguan, and Dominican leaves provided an experience that was smooth and flawless.

Diamond Crown has always been known for their quality, and Julius Caeser is spot-on! A stunningly silky Ecuadorian Habano wrapper cloaks Dominican fillers bringing in notes of wood, spice, and coffee. This is one blend you never have to worry about stabbing you in the back!

Be ready to be blown away by they brilliance and appearance of the box-pressed Divinia. Providing an extremely smooth draw, this cigar burns perfectly with a pleasant, unexpected mellow balance along with nuances of chocolate, espresso, and hints of hazelnut. This is one "Cuban-esque" blend to enjoy, especially when paired with an aged Rum.

Cohiba really outdid themselves by going the Nicaraguan route. Below the oily Honduran Oscuro wrapper are hand-picked, Nicaraguan long leaves grown in Jalapa and Estelí. Creamy and cool with notes of leather, cedar, and whispers of sweetness makes for a top-notch experience! Full-bodied, bold, and smokes like a dream!

I'm always all-in when it comes to Oliva. I truly don't think they make a cigar that isn't great, and trust me I've dug deep! What's their best blend? Tough question, but Master Blends III has to be in the running. Box-pressed with a beauty of a Broadleaf wrapper around lively Ligero long-leaves, this premium is full-bodied and smooth, too!

Hearty filler tobaccos from Nicaragua and long-leaf from the San Andrès Valley, along with a Cuban-seed Ligero wrapper offers one heck of a cigar which packs robust notes of earth, leather, and oak...all with a spicy kick. This is one premium from Diesel that delivers optimum flavor and performance—a limitless experience!

The 2003 Sumatra wrapper, along with its Dominican and Habano long-leaf filler, is well-balanced with notes of cedar, coffee, and pepper. Construction and burn are excellent, and the box-press puts it over the top. Aging Room Quattro F55 is one of my favorites, and I can assure you, it will be one of yours after the first draw.

Drew Estate  takes the crown and wears it proudly. Undercrown is just like a slightly mellower Liga Privada No.9, but with a San Andrés wrapper around a mix of Nicaraguan and Brazilian long-fillers. You can expect a medium-bodied experience that is creamy and balanced—long live the Undercrown!

Ah, the Shade-wrapped blend that changed the way the industry looked at mellow. CAO Gold is a mellow blend, no doubt about it. But with its Nicaraguan long-leaf recipe underneath its Connecticut-seed wrapper, the results are a bit more rich and well-rounded than most of its kind. Stay gold with this stunner from CAO!

There was no doubt the #12 Cigar of 2018 had to make it in this lineup! Robust and full-flavored, this Ecuadorian-wrapped premium contains a tri-country blend of fillers that produce earthy aromas with underlying hints of spice. Strong but not overpowering, this cigar lives up to its name, packing a punch in all the right ways!

I've always been a long time Camacho fan; and if you've had any of their blends, you might agree. Corojo is a robust medley of Honduran fillers with a Corojo wrapper that hits upfront with spice, pepper, earth, and some lingering sweetness—sometimes seeing red isn't such a bad thing!

Aged to perfection, this '93' rated blend was a no-brainer! Featuring a 12-year-aged Honduran Broadleaf maduro wrapper with 5-year-aged fillers and binder, Rocky Patel Vintage 1990 offers up a semi-sweet experience of cedar and espresso nuances. The perfect balance of flavor, complexity, and richness that you can enjoy any time, any day.

What can be said about Montecristo Classic that hasn't already? An all-time favorite, you'll be impressed with how much flavor this Churchill provides while staying smooth throughout. With a pristine Shade Grown wrapper and well-aged Dominican long-fillers, Montecristo Classic is in a class of its own!

The impressively-crafted Nat Sherman 1930 blew me away. It was not the mellow Dominican I have come to expect. This cigar is packed with Dominican and Nicaraguan long-fillers that exude flavors of cedar, a zesty spice, and hints of cocoa. This blend is perfect for when you're looking to kick things up a notch!

Never receiving an official release, this limited-edition premium was one I just had to try. Aged for no less than three years, filled with 100% Nicaraguan tobaccos, this cigar 'wow-ed' in every way! Rich flavors flourished from head to foot with nuances of almonds, cedar, spice, and earth. This is one Legacy that's legendary!

Oliva continues to produce hit after hit, and Serie 'O' is still a classic. Few Nicaraguan puros pull it off well, but this beauty is full with notes of cedar up front, hints of nuts, and a smattering of spices, all which carry a slight sweetness that builds over the course of the smoke.

This '91' rated, bold cigar entices the most intricate of palates. Box-pressed, with an attractive appearance, this cigar contains a robust blend of Nicaraguan tobaccos covered by a Broadleaf wrapper. This combination provides satisfying notes of earth and bittersweet chocolate. Rocky Patel Sun Grown is destined to be one of your favorites!

One of my favorite premiums to bring to the cigar party, these tantalizing treats are flavorful, complexly-nuanced, and downright fun to enjoy. Expect a combination of sweet and savory to start, with enough spice, earth, and pepper to put some pep in your step! One heck of a Corojo from HC Series!

 *Please Note Padilla Habano Artisano is sold out, and CAO America has been selected for this Expert Pick. We apologize for any inconvenience. Choosing another premium due to the immediate popularity of my first pick, I was proud to share with you this dual-wrapped gem from CAO. CAO Americana displays a beautiful maduro and Connecticut barber-pole style wrapper with a blend of Nicaraguan, Dominican, Italian, and American tobaccos. Hearty with hints of spice, this blend presents rich maduro textures with smooth notes of vanilla throughout. This '92' rated masterpiece is far from a runner-up!

As a fan of full-bodied cigars, I sampled Camacho Ecuador and realized I made a huge mistake by not trying one sooner! Medium to full-bodied, the electric blue bands aren't the only thing bold about this blend. Expect big flavors of coffee and chocolate with a rich, bready aroma—this cigar is more than good, it's great!

An excellent '92' rated, medium to full-bodied blend, this balanced medley of tri-country long-leaf filelrs are covered with a tantalizing Honduran wrapper. This premium will impress your palate with rich, creamy notes of sweet pepper, almonds, and hints of leather with a slight mesquite quality. You'll be convinced Orange is the new Mac!

A blend born  from a collaboration with Rocky Patel hitting the shelves made me realize my cigar budget is going to take a hit too! Utilizing mainly Honduran tobaccos with a leaf of Nicaraguan for good measure, this super-premium delivers notes of sweet pepper and creamy coffee that compete over a rich, cocoa finish.

Created by AJ Fernandez, this is a modern take on a classic brand—and as you might expect—it’s jaw-droppingly complex. Featuring a blend of long-fillers from Nicaragua's top growing regions and an oily Ecuador Habano wrapper, this cigar's sweet, spicy, and full-boded profile makes it a can't-miss.

A unique blend of Dominican and Peruvian fillers, draped in a silky Ecuador wrapper makes the mellow to medium-bodied Zino Platinum zesty, sweet, rich, and creamy. This '91' rated gem yields a complex flavor profile with a smooth body—a must-have for any occasion, this is one that will find a permanent home in your humidor.

Looking to kick it up a notch? Montecristo Platinum hits it right on the bulls eye with this complex blend! A smooth and rich mix of Dominican, Peruvian, and Nicaraguan long-fillers are wrapped in a flavorful San Andrés Cubano wrapper. Expect indulgent hints of leather, toasted almond, cocoa, and black pepper.

Full-bodied, complex, and well-made, Don Pepin Garcia Blue is worthy of all the praise it's received since its launch. The blend utilizes high quality Nicaraguan long-fillers with a toothy Corojo wrapper over top, giving this '93' rated gem a spicy aroma with hints of cinnamon, earth, and dried fruit. One of Don Pepin's finest cigars to date.

Joya de Nicaragua is known for its full-bodied blends, but it stepped out of the box with Red. This Nicaraguan puro is surrounded with a Nicaraguan-grown wrapper, which brings a smooth oak nuance up front with earth, spice, and a bit of leather that lingers in the background. This premium will leave you with seeing anything but Red.

This maduro offers an excellent medium to full body that starts off somewhat woodsy and sweet, but develops richness during the burn with notes of cedar, espresso, and a slight nuttiness, all with a creamy finish. Wrapped in a San Andres leaf brimming with Nicaraguan long-fillers, this cigar is a classic.

Here's a cigar worth investing in! The Banker is medium to full-bodied and, just like the stock market, alternates between some intense moments and periods of smooth stability. This balance between bold spices and pleasant, creamy nuances makes The Banker a blend that never loses its value in your regular rotation.

Alec Bradley's Black Market cigars have always been a favorite of mine, but this '93' rated gem steals the show. Brimming with a four-country blend of long-fillers wrapped in a dark Nicaraguan leaf, this premium is satisfying to the core with notes of leather, chocolate, and earth.

Warped and Casa Fernandez collaborated to make a masterpiece with Guardian of the Farm. With bold Nicaraguan fillers and a Corojo wrapper, I expected more strength, but it yielded a medium body with notes of earth and hints of cinnamon. Guardian will certainly be keeping a watch on my humidor for a while.

Wrapped in a smooth Sun Grown Criollo '98 leaf, this cigar utilizes rare Nicaraguan long-fillers. This rich, unique blend delivers notes of cocoa, leather, earthiness, with hints of spice and dark fruits. This medium to full-bodied premium is a treat for the palate. A must-have if you enjoy creations from Don Pepin Garcia.

This dark cigar is right up my alley with its Ecuador Habano Oscuro wrapper and potent blend of Nicaraguan long-fillers. This is definitely a spicy, but balanced premium with notes of leather, black pepper, earth, and espresso. This is, without a doubt, one of my favorite blends from Diesel.

With its oily Nicaraguan Habano wrapper and mix of Honduran and Nicaraguan tobaccos, Romeo y Julieta Reserve is always a treat. It offers smooth and rich notes of oak, coffee, black pepper, and a bit of sweetness. A balance of strength and flavor, this cigar is one of Romeo y Julieta's best creations.

If you like Drew Estate Liga Privada No. 9, you've got to try Undercrown Maduro. A solid medium-bodied Nicaraguan blend, this cigar is draped in a toothy San Andrés maduro leaf and will treat your palate to notes of coffee, earth, nuts, and a bit of leather. Truly a crowned jewel in my collection.

I've come to love CAO Brazilia Gol! for its rich nuances and enticing aroma. The blend features a unique Brazilian wrapper with Nicaraguan long-fillers at the center—a combination that leads to notes of chocolate, pepper, earth, and a long spicy finish. This cigar's rich aroma and complex profile makes Brazilia a winner every time.

I usually gravitate toward maduros, but I make an exception for Oliva Serie 'G'. This cigar displays a gorgeous African Cameroon wrapper with Nicaraguan long-fillers. Notes of cedar and nutiness come through from the first draw to the last, with hints of coffee throughout. Medium-bodied and well-balanced.

Man O' War Virtue is anything but your standard Connecticut blend. Covered in an Ecuador Connecticut leaf, this cigar utilizes Nicaraguan long-fillers and just the right amount of ligero. This combination gives Virtue an added kick of spice, along with notes of bread, leather, and toasted almond. Fully satisfying from head to foot.

Macanudo Crü Royale is a medium-bodied gem which features a dark Ecuador Habano wrapper with Dominican and Brazilian fillers beneath. Crü Royale is rich with deep notes of sweet earth, black pepper, and wood. This cigar never fails to impress, as it is consistently flavorful and well-made. A must for any Macanudo fan.

Treat yourself to a San Cristobal Elegancia and prepare to enjoy a smooth and luxurious ride. Nestled beneath the beautiful Ecuadorian Connecticut wrapper are Nicaraguan long-fillers, giving way to flavors of spice, oak, and nuttiness. This cigar pairs beautifully with both coffee and white wine!

601 Green is draped in a dark Nicaraguan Oscuro wrapper and brimming with well-aged Nicaraguan long-fillers. Full-bodied without being overpowering, this flavorful cigar will entice the palate with notes of leather, coffee, and cocoa. 601 is not only a brand, but also the number of these I wish I had in my stash.

You know I love strong stuff so no shocker I picked My Father La Antiguedad. Draped in an Ecuador Habano wrapper with a unique dual binder of Corojo and Criollo and a bounty of Nicaraguan fillers beneath, this cigar has strong notes of coffee, pepper, and chocolate. A winning addition to any humidor.

Alec Bradley once again hits it out of the park with this box-pressed beauty! Encased in a Nicaragua Jalapa wrapper with Nicaraguan long-fillers from Condega, Jalapa, and Estelí nestled beneath, Tempus Nicaragua is a treat with toasty cedar, nuts, and hints of semi-sweetness followed by a finish of leather and spice. Quite a ride!

Masterfully blended and perfectly balanced, Rocky Patel Vintage '90 is an exceptional cigar which has earned a regular place in my humidor. Featuring a 12-year-aged Honduran Broadleaf maduro wrapper with a blend of well-aged fillers and binders, you'll experience rich notes of cedar, espresso, and some sweetness.

This '93' rated masterpiece from Nicaragua expels a rich character with balanced flavor. With its Habano wrapper and Nicaraguan long-leaf tobacco, this cigar will please the most complex of palates with enjoyable flavors and an oily feel. After a few draws, you will understand why this cigar is indeed Mighty Mighty.

This collaboration between Altadis and AJ Fernandez has produced a cigar that boasts a classic character with a modern look and feel. on the surface, you'll find an Ecuador Sumatra wrapper with Dominican and Nicaraguan long-leaves secured beneath. This cigar is complex and spicy, with creamy notes of oak, cocoa, and cashew.

Aging Room Quattro F55 is an amazing cigar. Medium to full-bodied, it opens with spice and leather, then mellows to earthy coffee tones with some slightly sweet woody notes. After enjoying one, you’ll need to clear out the humidor for an entire box!

Blended by AJ Fernandez himself, Ave Maria is one of the finest cigars available. Showcasing an Ecuador Habano wrapper with a Nicaraguan long-leaf tobacco, this is an exquisite blend. Well-balanced with a creamy profile, Ave Maria is one of my favorites.

Reserve is another impressive offering from Romeo y Julieta! Full in body, this cigar is bursting with flavor. Expertly blended with Nicaraguan and Honduran long-fillers swaddled beneath a dark and oily Nicaraguan wrapper, expect hints of earth, spice, and sweetness.

Gilberto Reserva Blanc is Oliva’s newest release since 2012, and it’s well worth the wait. This mellow to medium-bodied blend sports a golden Ecuador Connecticut wrapper which encases Nicaraguan long-leaf. A classic Connecticut profile with notes of cashew, cream, and a bit of graham cracker.

Drew Estate Undercrown Shade is a Nicaraguan-made gem which sports a silky Connecticut Shade wrapper. Rich with a velvety creaminess that stays with you throughout, this cigar has notes of cedar, earth, and black pepper. Undercrown Shade is a shining example of a medium-bodied cigar.

Prensado Lost Art is masterfully made with a Honduran Corojo wrapper and a core of 5 different Honduran and Nicaraguan tobaccos. Expect complex flavors of white pepper, dark chocolate, earthiness, and hints of coffee. This bold and beautifully balanced treat is aromatic and delicious. Kudos Alec Bradley!  

Of course, I picked another AJ and it’s fantastic! Man O’ War Damnation is a strong blend that opens with spice, leather, and oak, but mellows with coffee notes and some cherry on the finish. Make sure to complete your warrior training before taking on Damnation.

This cigar is an easygoing blend that never disappoints. Decadent Dominican long-fillers are encased by a smooth Connecticut wrapper. Satisfying notes of leather, spice, and cedar greet the palate and pair nicely with a morning coffee. One of Victor Sinclair’s crowning achievements.

Before this review, I enjoyed Oliva cigars on occasion, but now I find myself in love with the Oliva Serie 'G' Maduro. Its dark, oily Connecticut Broadleaf wrapper and Nicaraguan long-fillers reward my palate with a slightly nutty profile and notes of earthiness, fruit, cocoa, and coffee!

This is not only one of my top picks for 2017, it's also one of my go-to cigars. This '95' rated box-pressed beauty sports a well-aged Connecticut Broadleaf wrapper with Nicaraguan and Dominican long-fillers beneath. Its notes of cocoa, black pepper, and earth are always an absolute pleasure.

Truly a work of divine inspiration. I love anything AJ Fernandez makes, and this is no exception. Made primarily with Nicaraguan tobacco, this medium to full-bodied cigar opens with heavy spice, which mellow to notes of leather and earth. This blend will carry you on angel's wings until the end.