How Are Cigars Rated

How Are Cigars Rated? A Comprehensive Guide to Understanding Cigar Reviews

Choosing a cigar can feel overwhelming. With countless brands, sizes, and origins, how do you know which one to pick? Understanding how cigars are rated is key to navigating this world and finding your perfect smoke. This guide will break down the key elements critics and aficionados use to evaluate cigars.

The Key Factors in Cigar Ratings

Cigar ratings aren't simply arbitrary numbers; they reflect a careful assessment of several crucial factors. These are the aspects that seasoned cigar smokers consider when determining the quality and overall enjoyment of a cigar.

1. Appearance (Construction):

• Wrapper: The outermost leaf is the first thing you see. Raters look for evenness of color, smoothness, and the absence of blemishes. A beautifully crafted wrapper suggests careful selection and rolling. Terms like "seamless," "elegant," and "attractive" often appear in descriptions.

• Shape & Size (Vitola): The cigar's shape and size, called the vitola, impacts the burn and smoking experience. A perfectly formed cigar points to skilled craftsmanship.

• Firmness: A well-made cigar should feel firm but not overly hard to the touch. Too much firmness can indicate a dense, hard draw, while too little might mean a loose construction.

2. Aroma (Pre-Light):

Before even lighting up, experienced smokers assess the "pre-light aroma." This involves smelling the foot of the cigar (the end you light) and the wrapper. The aroma should be pleasant and indicative of the tobaccos used. Descriptors like "earthy," "woody," "spicy," "sweet," and "floral" are commonly used.

3. Draw (Resistance):

The draw refers to the ease with which you can inhale smoke. An ideal draw is smooth and consistent, not too tight (requiring excessive effort) nor too loose (leading to a fast burn and weak flavor). Reviewers often use terms like "perfect draw," "slightly tight," or "open draw."

4. Flavor (Taste):

This is the most crucial aspect for many smokers. The flavor profile can be complex and evolve throughout the smoking experience. Reviewers note the intensity, complexity, balance, and evolution of the flavors. Expect to see a wide range of descriptors, such as "peppery," "nutty," "chocolatey," "leathery," "creamy," and many more.

5. Burn (Combustion):

A consistent, even burn is essential for a pleasant smoking experience. A cigar that burns unevenly, requiring frequent touch-ups, will detract from enjoyment. Raters will mention whether the ash holds well, whether the burn line is straight, and any issues related to uneven burning.

6. Finish (Aftertaste):

The finish describes the lingering sensation after exhaling the smoke. A well-made cigar often leaves a pleasant and memorable aftertaste. This aspect significantly contributes to the overall rating and enjoyment of the cigar.

Understanding Rating Systems

Different publications and websites use varying rating systems. Some might use a simple star system (e.g., 1-5 stars), while others employ a 100-point scale. The specific numbers are less important than the detailed notes accompanying the ratings.

Beyond the Numbers: Reading the Reviews

While numerical ratings provide a quick overview, the accompanying text is crucial. Pay close attention to the detailed descriptions of aroma, flavor, and other attributes to get a complete picture. Reading multiple reviews from different sources can give you a more balanced perspective.

By understanding these key factors and how they're assessed, you'll be much better equipped to choose cigars you'll truly enjoy. Happy smoking!