A cigar shop can be intimidating to the uninitiated. There are so many options to consider that it can be tempting to just grab the same old stand by. Where’s the fun in that? Next time you visit a humidor, consider picking up some of these sticks. These are the slightly under-the-radar cigars we’ll be smoking all summer long.
San Lotano Connecticut
While we love the entire San Lotano line of cigars, the Connecticut wrapped vitolas are a great option for a cigar newbie looking to up their flavor game a bit. This cigar is considerably more complex than your average mild stick.
$8+
Joya Red
Joya de Nicaragua is known for big, full-bodied smokes, but their latest release dials the strength down to medium while retaining a ton a flavor. An any time cigar for sure.
$5+
Rocky Patel Super Ligero
Ligero (pronounced lee-HAIR-oh) leaves come from the top of the tobacco plant. They’re notoriously spicy. If you prefer a spicy cigar, this new release from Rocky Patel delivers in spades.
$7+
Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure Especial
If your summer plans include a trip to Cuba (or just about any country outside the U.S.), we recommend skipping the Cohibas and pick yourself up one of these. This is truly one of the best Cubans on the market.
$22
Gran Habano Corojo #5
If you’re looking for a great tasting cigar at a reasonable price, you’d be hard-pressed to do better than the Gran Habano Corjo #5. This cigar is full of flavor but decidedly on the lighter side of full-bodied.
$5+
Liga Privada No. 9
Drew Estate made its mark with the Acid series, but they make exceptional traditional style cigars as well. This cigar is a few years old but is worth mentioning because it remains one of the finest blends on the market. This cigar always has a place in our humidor—when we can find them.
$15+
Herrera Esteli Norteno
If you can’t find the Liga Privada No. 9 you can try this new gem from Drew Estate. Herrera Esteli Norteṅo leans toward a fuller body but is very well-balanced by some sweeter notes.
$12+
My Father
Of all of the high-end cigars coming from Tabacalera My Father, their flagship “My Father” line is our favorite. This cigar will kick your butt in the nicotine department for sure. However, unlike many strong cigars, it’s far from one dimensional. There’s a wide array of flavors and spice to compliment the strength of this smoke. More than worth the price tag.
$10+
