For our first ever Best of the Year list, we look through the cigars reviewed on HBTC throughout 2019, and choose the ones that performed the best. Keeping it simple and true is our method. CLICK HERE for more info on how we rate and score cigars, and CLICK HERE to learn more about our process for the Best of the Year list.
Here is our Facebook Live show from 12/30/2019 where we discussed our process and announced the winners.
#1 Cigar of 2019 – Southern Draw Kudzu Lustrum (Score = 95)
This cigar blew us away with complexity and consistency. In our opinion, everyone should seek this one out for a spot in their personal humidor. Click here to see the original review.
#2 Cigar of 2019 – Padrón Black No. 89 TAA 2018 Maduro (Score = 94)
The Padrón family have become synonymous with excellence, and this cigar is no exception. Not incredibly easy to find, but when you do find it, it should become one that you reach for whenever possible. Click here to see the original review.
#3 Cigar of 2019 – Dunbarton Tobacco & Trust Sin Compromiso Seleccion No. 2 (Score = 93)
With a deep and rich wrapper leaf that has an incredible story behind it, the Sin Compromiso has become a cigar that many in the cigar community have taken notice of. We were equally impressed by it, and recommend it to anyone looking for deep richness and complexity. Click here to see the original review.
#4 Cigar of 2019 – Balmoral Serie Signaturas Dueto Ovacion (Score = 93)
With a unique shape and consistent flavors, this cigar has a welcome spot on our list. Click here to see the original review.
#5 Cigar of 2019 – RoMa Craft Neanderthal LH (Score = 92)
This new vitola of the much-loved Neanderthal line had fans of the brand buzzing for most of the year. When it finally landed in our favorite cigar shops, we were not disappointed. Click here to see the original review.
#6 Cigar of 2019 – Espinosa Laranja Reserva Escuro Toro (Score = 92)
We were already fans of the original Laranja blend, and this Escuro is also a new favorite of ours. It is a great contrast and compliment to Laranja, and we encourage everyone to get their hands on some. Click here to see the original review.
#7 Cigar of 2019 – Tatuaje Nuevitas Esteli Robusto (Score = 92)
The story behind this cigar is so rich, and it has so much history to it. But let’s not forget that this blend is a delicious cigar, and we think everyone should go out and pick some up. Click here to see the original review.
#8 Cigar of 2019 – HVC La Rosa 520 Maduro Exquisitos (Score = 91)
The HVC brand has been gaining steady traction in the marketplace over the past few years, and this cigar is another reason why. Rich flavors, consistent performance, and a reasonable price. Click here to see the original review.
#9 Cigar of 2019 – Crux Epicure Short Salomone (Score = 91)
The Epicure blend is one that we already enjoyed, but something about it in this vitola really hits the right spots. It is mild, but still filled with great flavor. Click here to see the original review.
#10 Cigar of 2019 – Joya de Nicaragua Cinco Decadas El General (Score = 91)
When it came time for Joya to celebrate 50 years of Nicaraguan tobacco, they pulled out all the stops. This is a wonderful blend, and this vitola makes for a long and relaxing smoke. Click here to see the original review.
Best Deal of the Year – JSK Toothpick 2.0 Habano (Score = 91)
This year, the cigar that we regard as highest above the price point is the Jas Sum Kral (JSK) Toothpick 2.0 Habano. With a low MSRP, and plenty of flavor and performance, it is definitely one of the budget cigars that anyone can keep stocked at all times. Click here to see the original review.
Flashback of the Year – Padrón Palmas Maduro (Score = 91)
As we go back and review cigars that have been staples on humidor shelves for over a decade, we looked at a few this past year. The one that stood out most was the Padrón Palmas Maduro. It has been consistent and flavorful for a very long time, and a cigar that a lot of us may have forgotten. Hopefully now we will remember to restock this one in our regular rotation. Click here to see the original review.
2019 has been a wonderful year for us at HBTC. We are so excited to be a part of the cigar culture, and we look forward to a continued journey alongside all of our wonderful readers, viewers, listeners, and supporters. Here’s to a phenomenal 2020!