Every cigar we feature is smoked in full and discussed openly before a rating is ever given. Nothing is rushed, and every perspective matters before we put a number to the experience.

Our reviews are guided by what we think of as the seven pillars of a cigar’s experience. These include construction, flavor, burn quality, draw, balance, consistency, and overall intent. Rather than isolating any single element, we look at how these pillars work together and what the cigar is trying to be on its own terms.

We do not judge cigars against trends, popularity, or unrelated styles. Each cigar is evaluated based on whether it delivers the experience it sets out to offer, not whether it conforms to someone else’s expectations.

Transparency matters to us. We explain why a cigar earned its rating so listeners and readers can decide for themselves whether that experience aligns with their own tastes.

Scores are not meant to declare winners or failures. They exist to summarize our experience and provide context, not a final judgment.

Our scores range from 1.00 to 5.00 using a five-star scale with decimal precision. The number is meant to summarize our experience with the cigar at the time of review and provide a point of reference alongside the discussion, not to stand on its own.

A lower score does not mean a cigar lacks merit, just as a higher score does not guarantee universal appeal. Ratings reflect our perspective at the time of review and are always meant to be read alongside the conversation that led to them.

4.91 – 5.00
→ Rare and defining
Borderline flawless cigars that stand apart and set a new reference point for excellence.

4.75 – 4.90
→ Excellent
Memorable, special cigars that are easily recommended and leave a strong impression.

4.20 – 4.74
→ Very Good
Very strong, well-executed cigars that deliver an enjoyable experience from start to finish.

3.40 – 4.19
→ Good
Solid, competent cigars with clear strengths and some limitations.

2.40 – 3.39
→ Fair
Smokable cigars that show promise but are uneven or restrained in certain areas.

Below 2.40
→ Misses the mark (for us)
Cigars that did not come together during this review, without suggesting they lack merit or value to other smokers.

A lower score does not mean a cigar lacks merit, just as a higher score does not guarantee universal appeal. Our ratings reflect our experience at the time of review and are always meant to be read alongside the discussion that led to them.

In the end, the number matters less than the context behind it.