It’s that time of the year again when every cigar reviewer publishes a post that starts with “It’s that time of the year again…” As long as I’ve been smoking cigars, I’ve looked forward to these top X lists since it allows you to do a few really cool things:
- Discover some gems you might have missed
- See which review source most closely aligns with your smoking palate
- Compare the rankings to see if there’s a cigar or two which consistently appears near the top of almost everybody’s list — a sort of AP National Champion of the cigar world
Ever since I started contributing to StogieReview.com, I’ve been excited about adding my two cents and publishing just such an annual ranking of my own. I was originally only going to do an unordered top 5 list, but then I decided to expand things a bit to talk about some of the other great cigars I smoked over the past year. Other than dividing the list into two groups (5–10 and the top 5), these cigars are presented in no particular order. Be sure to read all the way down to the bottom of this post in order to get in on a really cool giveaway.
Without further ado, and in my entirely subjective & flawed opinion, here are my Top 10 most enjoyed cigars of 2011. First up, we have the bottom half of the list. These cigars were definitely good enough to make it into my Top 10 list, but weren’t quite as outstanding as the top five.
*** The Top Ten ***
EP Carrillo Edición Limitada 2011 “Dark Rituals”
The first couple of these that I had weren’t anything to write home about, but all the sticks afterwards have been fantastic. Deep, rich flavors with a perfect construction and burn, plus some serious aging potential — this limited edition cigar is truly something special.
Perdomo Reserve Limited Cameroon Edition Petit Corona
Brian’s glowing review, coupled with the fact that I’m a sucker for a nice Cameroon wrapper, convinced me to pick up a box of these. A nice, quick, enjoyable medium-bodied smoke, and a great deal at $49 for a box of 10.
Don Pepin Garcia Series JJ “Little Robusto”
A great cigar for a great cause. Typical outstanding burn and construction that we’ve come to expect from Pepin, with tons of twang in the flavor profile (something I really enjoy). Go out and grab a box — you’ll have some terrific cigars to smoke & share, plus you’ll be doing some good at the same time.
Other than Liga Privada, I don’t smoke many cigars produced by Drew Estate. And as much as I like them, their price & availability keep Liga Privada from being an everyday smoke for me. Incorporating different primings from the same tobacco crops used in the LP blends, the Undercrown is a Drew Estate offering that I’d smoke everyday.
Another cigar manufactured by EP Carrillo, this is the highly-anticipated first release from the former CAO employees who founded Crowned Heads. I really enjoyed the sweet, meaty, twangy flavors, and the construction & burn were first-rate. My only real complaint is their relatively limited availability — hopefully that’ll change with a wider release in 2012.
You might ask, what’s the difference between the cigars in the top five versus the rest of my list? While the aforementioned smokes were truly great, they just didn’t have that “wow” factor I’m always searching for. The following cigars all had that “je ne sais quoi” — they made me sit back in my smoking chair and quietly exclaim “WOW!” to myself, motivating me to go out and track down some more. If you haven’t tried all five of these yet, as soon as you finish reading this post, go out and find some!
*** The Top Five ***
I usually shy away from full strength cigars as they just aren’t my cup of tea. When I smoke a cigar, I’m looking for big, robust flavors — I don’t want to feel woozy from the nicotine. However, the CroMagnon has completely changed my perspective about what a full strength cigar can (and should) be. I definitely felt the power, but it never tipped into the nausea-inducing zone, and was absolutely packed with an incredible peppery meat taste. The CroMagnon is a perfect example of how lots of power can be balanced with lots of flavor in the same great package. (Currently available exclusively online via Hava Cigar Shop.)
Casa Magna Domus Magnus Limitada
“Oodles & oodles, and gobbles & gobbles of flavor…” I like to tease Jerry about his description of the Domus Magnus, but he really hit the nail on the head with his review. Sporting an absolutely perfect construction, it starts slow but ends with an unbelievably good finish. With a deeply satisfying nutty, creamy, café con leche flavor and a hint of spice… I’ll go out on a limb here and say that the Domus Magnus is the first cigar I’ve smoked which reminded of the Behike BHK.
I’ll admit, this one took me completely by surprise. I had noticed the boxes of Emilio cigars on the shelves of my local tobacconist, but really hadn’t even considered picking any up. It took several visits before brand developer and B&M manager Gary Griffith talked me into trying his line. I was completely blown away! I also enjoyed the AF1 and Grimalkin, but the AF2 really stood out for me. It’s exceptionally well-balanced and silky smooth, with a rich flavor and perfect draw. The AF2 was one of the first cigars I covered for StogieReview.com back when I was doing written reviews only, but if I had recorded a video review instead, you’d better understand how much I enjoy this cigar from my overly enthusiastic expressions.
San Lotano Oval by A.J. Fernandez
No question about it: this was a “WOW!” cigar for me. Awesome flavors that always kept me smoking it down to the nub, and the oval-shaped format really works great. A.J. Fernandez must be doing something right, as two of his cigars have earned a spot amongst my top five of the year. It’s safe to say he can add the San Lotano Oval to his impressive list of home runs in his relatively short career thus far.
As a native son of Connecticut and a fan of broadleaf tobacco, I was definitely intrigued when I heard Pete Johnson was developing a 100% Connecticut broadleaf cigar. It almost seems like La Casita Criolla was designed with all of my personal preferences in mind: medium bodied… deep, rich earthy flavors… and three ring gauges ranging from 42 to 48. After trying one, I rushed right back to the shop the next day to pick up a whole box — and just in the nick of time it would seem, as I grabbed the last full box they had in stock!
A final disclaimer: I certainly didn’t try every new release that came out this year, so I may have overlooked some other fantastic cigars. There were also several others for which I only smoked a sample or two, and wouldn’t feel comfortable including on a year-end list like this one without more experience. I’m sure some folks will be ticked off, and others will think I’m crazy, but that’s just what happens when you share your opinions publicly.
2011 was a great year, both for cigars and for me, personally. There were lots of big developments, with even more to look forward to in the year ahead. I want to sincerely thank Jerry, Walt, Brian, and Mike for giving me this opportunity to share my smoking experiences with all of you, and for allowing me to spread my handsome face all over the Internet where it belongs. I also want to thank all of the manufacturers, reps, and retailers who provided me with samples — even the dog rockets — which helped me to broaden my horizons and try some cigars I might not have had the opportunity to explore otherwise. Finally, I’d like to raise a glass to toast all the great brothers & sisters of the leaf whom I’ve met and enjoyed a cigar or two with in the past year.
*** BONUS GIVEAWAY ***
In honor of the late Steve Jobs (1955–2011), I’ve got one last thing that I think you all will like. As a special treat for our great readers here at StogieReview.com and as a huge “THANK YOU” for all the great feedback you’ve given me thus far, I’ve decided to put together a really nice prize pack for one lucky contestant. I’m giving away a 10-count travel humidor emblazoned with the StogieReview.com logo. It’s just like the humidor that Mike recently gave away, except for one small difference: this humidor will be shipped to the winner pre-filled with one each of my top ten cigars of 2011. That’s right, you’ll get the travel humidor plus 10 truly awesome cigars!
There are three different ways you can enter for the giveaway:
- Leave a comment below telling me what was your favorite cigar in 2011
- Log into Facebook and “like” the Stogie Review page (people who already “like” us will be automatically entered)
- Log into Twitter and RT this tweet (you must use the built-in retweet feature, otherwise your entry can’t be counted)
Be sure to take advantage of all three entry methods in order to maximize your chances of winning (one entry per method for a max of three entries per person). I’ll select one winner at random from the properly-submitted entries on January 17, 2012. Residents of the US & Canada only; must be 19 or older.
Good luck and Happy New Year!
Updated: Jan 20, 2012 12:40AM
Congratulations to Fuzzy, whose entry was randomly selected as the winner of this giveaway. Please check your email for instructions on how to claim your prize, and thanks to everyone for entering.
About Charlie:
Charlie has been enjoying cigars since 2000 and generally prefers a medium-bodied, full-flavored smoke. A USAF vet, he is currently pursuing a PhD in computer science, focusing on artificial intelligence and computational linguistics. Originally from Connecticut and now residing in Delaware, Charlie is also a fan of football, science fiction, political philosophy, and single malt scotch. You can contact Charlie on Twitter @greenbacker
well i got to say this is the best top 10 list so far, lol my best cigar of 2011 was for me the San Lotano Oval really enjoyed that one
San Lotano Oval by A.J. Fernandez
Nice list. From what I have seen from yours and others is that I need to try an EP Carrillo.
My top cigar was the Undercrown followed by the El Primer Mundo Liga Miami and the Emilio AF1.
my favorite cigar from 2011 is the Tatuaje Avion! I liked all the sizes of the fausto that I’ve tried but the avion was my favorite hands down! cheers!
Great list and a very generous giveaway! I guess I’d have to say my favorite would have to be a toss-up between the Undercrown and CroMagnon.
And a Happy New Year to you!
I’ve smoked both the AF1 & Grimalkin, which were great sticks, but for me, the AF1 was the better of the two.
The San Lotano Oval is my fav by a long shot. After that probably the La Casita Criollo. Comacho’s Triple Maduro takes home the bronze.
Thanks for a great list.
My favourite smoke last year was the Montecristo Grand Edmundo. For a non Cuban I think it would be the Tat Black PL.
My favorite cigar of 2011 was a Arganese double wrap aged a year next to a man of war ruination and and a java mocha which married fantastically.
However I am looking forward to a knuckle dragger for 2012.
Great list Charlie! I have had the good fortune to smoke a few of the sticks you listed and Id have to pick Petes La Casita Criolla as my fave of the year. Thanks for the contest. Result day is also my birthday!
I have not had the pleasure of trying most of these, (hopefully I might get the chance from this contest) but I will say that the four kicks that I have been able to get my hands on have been awesome, and my favorite of the year. Looking forward to what they come out with later this year.
Besides the La Casita Criolla, Monte Pascoal Coronas, nice and spicy.
great list! my fav cigar this year, well only been doing this a year lol, is the don pepin garcia seires jj robusto! i have ordered a box of the little robustos yesterday and yes, it is for a great cause!before that was a epc new wave or maduros. keep up the great work charlie!! HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!!
Don Pepin Blue Toro. I know it’s been out there for a while but man it hit the spot perfectly this year for me.
I am going to go with the Brian Hewitt Casa de Hewitt. A beautiful cigar with notes of pencil lead and furniture plastic. When you buy one you have to pay him money in addition to letting him pick what he wants from your travel humidor. Say it sexy, Casa de Hewitt
THANKS STOGIE REVIEW FROM ALL OF US AT MIAMI CIGAR CO. FOR HAVING A GREAT SITE,
well my fav was the Undercrown, just a great great smoke. Thanks for the contest and Happy New Year.
My Uzi Weighs a Ton. It’s been a while since I enjoyed a cigar that much.
Nice list Charlie. I tried 2 out of the 10 on yours lol
My favorite cigar of the year was the Devil’s Weed because they are mmmm,mmmmm,good.
I have been seeing quite a few of these around on lists but I do agree, I liked the AF series better than the Grimalkin. Now I only had 1 of each cigar so my experience is limited. Plus that Jerry guy put that Grimalkin on his list and he just has no clue.
Liked the Casa Magna and the Undercrown. I am tied between those too. Plus I smoked an Undercrown while I watched Scarface a few weeks back, so it has a special place it my heart.
Undercrown was my top cigar of the year, but I am still waiting to try a Feral Flying Pig. I also love the AF2 and the Oval.
My personal favorite new release of 2011 was the Room 101 Namakubi Roxxo. Perfect wrapper to filler to binder ratio for my tastes. The Oval was one of my top new 2011 cigars as well. AJ really hit a home run with that one. Great list!
Good list Charlie.
The two NC cigars I’ve enjoyed this year are the My Father 1922 Petit Robusto and the Casa Magna Optimus. You’re right, tons of flavour! I also had my first Viaje on Boxing Day, the Platino. Very nice.
I’ve got some JJ’s on order, but they’ve not arrived yet. Booo!!
Great list! For me 2011 had some amazing new releases, but Pete Johnson had to have the best year ever. Stand outs for me were the black pl, TAA(cant stop smoking these), the wolfman(my favorite monster since rthe frank) all the LCC, and the Avion…. Other honorable mentions are the Oktoberfest by Quesada and MFS Cigars
Great list Charlie! The San Lotano Oval Corona and the Cromagnon Knuckle Dragger we’re my favorites this year. Need to try the Four Kicks and the Dark Rituals.
Favorite 2011 smoke is gonna have to be EP Carillo New Wave followed by Room 101 Namakubi and finally followed by La Caridad del Cobre Javalene.
Great list, Charlie. I’ve had 8 of the 10 & enjoyed each of them. My favorite cigar this year has been the E.P. Carrillo New Wave Connecticut. It changed the way I think about a Connecticut. It has enough punch to smoke after dinner, or just mild enough to smoke for breakfast. It’s like the Swiss Army Knife of cigars– It does it all. Happy New Year, folks!
My favorite cigar of 2011 would have to be the Oliva NUB with the Connecticut wrapper! A great mild, and smooth smoke! 🙂
I like the list and agree with most. The only one missing for me and my number one is the My Father Le Bijiou Corona. The Viaje Smoke Inn 45th was also a winner.
I would say the CroMagnon Knuckle Dragger
This is a tough one, 2011 was a great year for cigars. I would have to go with:
1. 4 Kicks
2. Tat Black Pet Lancero
P.S. I gotta try those CroMagnon’s – making a lot of lists.
Thanks.
Happy New Year to all! My favorite stick of the year was the Alec Bradley Black Market. All-around a great stick. Thanks and good luck to all!
Vegas Robaina Famosos
For my 2011 picks:
I liked the San Lotano Oval as well, not really fond of the shape, but a damn good smoke anyhow.
The Cain Daytona was very nice.
As a side note, I had a chance to smoke a San Cristobal Seleccion Del Sol (that had been stored away for about 2 years and I was really blown away!
Ken
My favorite is tie between the Undercrown~ A go-to cigar for any night and an AF2~Able to buy these near philly at Wooden Indian Cigar, Thanks for putting your list together….Shout out from a fellow Nutmegger~Go Huskies!!!!
I enjoyed the Natural “English” the most in 2011
Great top 10, Charlie. My top 10 would’ve looked very similar to yours. One cigar that’s not on there, which would probably is my number one, is the Tat Wolfman. Loved that cigar.
Great list…still want to try the Grimalkin but the AF2 is at the top of my list for 2011.
great list
My Favorite its Quesada Oktoberfest
My favorite this year was the E.P. Carrillo Maduro.
My fave for the year is definitely the San Lotano Oval. I really can’t wait for the maduro coming out this year.
My favorite smoke this year was definitely Casia Criolla. I really love Connecticut Broadleaf.
My favorite cigar I smoked in 2011 was the illusione singulare phantom but the four kicks & CroMag KD were in my top 4. Thanks for sharing the list. Happy New Year.
San Lotano Habano was my fav smoke of the year.
Hey Charlie you no my luck with Give aways so I’m not expecting much hahah my favorite stick this year is the EPC New Wave great mild stick lots of flavor but doesn’t kill you wil Power. Happy New Year
The Grimalkin and Oval I would say top my list. The Grimalkin perfect balance, great taste, left you satisfied. Hate smoking a stick only to feel like I need to light another. The Oval to me was a very interesting stick. The cigar practically smokes itself. Never had a stick in last 20 yrs, that I found to be consistently that easy to smoke. Great flavors. Gordo delivers best overall from start to finish.
Great list Charlie, looking forward to many more reviews in 2012. My #1 has to be La Casita Criollo, followed closely by the Undercrown and, surprisingly, the Padron 2000 Maduro (which I can never have enough of).
Nice list man! I’m really happy to see so many lists this year with similar cigars. Manufacturers seem to be getting much more consistent.
San Latano Oval for me…great draw…100% enjoyment…You Phd’s must do well to give this gem away!!!!
CroMagnon, Four Kicks and Undercrown were the best new cigars I enjoyed this year too.
nice list, my fav for 2011 would have to be alec bradley black market.
My favorite stick I smoked in 2011 was the Man o War Armada.
Great list – I’ve tried about half of them, and agree with all that I’ve tried, all winners in my book. The San Lotano has a great pre-smoke flavor to it, I loved the EP Carillo, have had a few now, great long smoke with excellent and consistent flavor… and being a local to Emilio and Gary, I’ve long since been a big fan of his AF series.
Nice list but can’t say I’ve tried more than a few of them! My favorite cigar this year would have to be an old standby of mine – the Cohiba Siglo III. The flavours are always simply superb. Thanks.
While not my favorite cigar, the 2011 release that I enjoyed the most was the Undercrown Robusto size.
For me it was the San Lotano Oval robusto.
My favorite cigar was Trinidad Habana Reserva..
Love the reviews and unfortunately I have not had the chance to try many of the cigars on your list. I am a bit biased to a few lines which I smoke about once a week including Padron, Graycliff, Aurora, Zino Platinum Sceptor, and a few others. I would have to say that the best cigar I have smoked in 2011 was most definitely the Padron 1926 Anniversary “40 years” maduro. I was fortunate to pick up a five pack on Cigarbid for about $20 a stick. Very expensive but the balance of flavor and power that Senior Padron places on this cigar is absolutely amazing…. A chocolate overtone with hints of espresso, tobacco and mocha engulf the palate and somehow they’re able to smooth out the finish even with the power knocking you on your butt! Unbelievable cigar and worth the price compared to Opus, God of Fire and some of the Graycliff lines. I would say that at a close 2nd, and always a favorite for me is the Graycliff Chateau Gran Cru (purple)…. Love the blog and will be reading and commenting much more often…. happy puffin!
My favorite cigar of the year is not a new release, but my old standby – Ashton VSG Illusion. I smoke more of them than anything else.
If I am considering just new releases, then I have to go with EP Carillo New Wave….otherwise, I have been revisiting the La Riqueza a lot this year.
Thanks for a great list!
My favorite has to be the Undercrown, I can’t stop burning these. Tons of flavor and smoke that would set off an alarm!
Nice list. Wish I could have one of the San Lotano Ovals. Cheers.
Great list! Would have to say the Quesada Oktoberfest would be at or near the top of my 2011 list.
Rocky 8 year cameroon
Very difficult question; since there were many great cigars released in 2011; I would go with the Tatuaje Black PL…
Great list. And an awesome prize. Still have not tried a couple of the top 5. I will get right on that.
My favorite of the year was the Tatuaje TAA. I keep seeing LCC on “Top” lists and am surprised – I did not get anything special from that stick. I will have to give it another try.
I’ve only tried one of these cigars so far. My New Year’s resolution is to try all 10 before the end of February!
San Lotano Habano, ever since I was gifted one about a year ago I seek these out wherever I can get them (still fairly scarce at local B&Ms). Thanks for all your reviews Charlie, always enjoy your insight even though you are an ex-Zoomie
Big fan of the Namakubis this year. I have had better cigars this year, but not for this price.
Charlie, nice reviews…..great list! I have to thank you for introducing me to my favorite cigar of 2011….the CroMagnon Knuckle Dragger. I also purchased a few of the samplers at Hava Cigar Shop….delicious! Great cigars, loaded with flavor at a reasonable price….really cool couple of guys. Thanks again.
I have A couple of your top 10 smokes in my cooler,havent had A chance to try them yet.Been under the weather,I cant wait to try them.Great review!
Favorite new cigar (to me) of 2011 would be a tie between a Macanudo Cru Royale and a Joya de Nicaragua Antano 1970. Great list and AWESOME contest.
Avo 85th was hands down my favorite this year. That was all wow to me
My list would be pretty close to yours. I really liked the Four Kicks, the AF-1, and the Domus. I’d also add AJ’s San Lotano Maduro to the list. Somehow, I’ve yet to try the Dark Rituals or Undercrown. Anyway, my #1 would probably go to the Four Kicks. It hit all the right notes for me flavor-wise and in terms of construction – plus it has a great back story and is made by one of my favorite blenders. Thanks for the list and contest!
Like you, my favorite cigar of the year was the La Casita Criolla. It opened a whole new world of medium bodied sticks for me.
AF2 torp.i have smoked many boxes worth of this great cigar.
My favorite cigar I smoked in 2011 was Quesada Tributo !
I think the best new cigar for me was La Casita Criolla and then already on the market I really enjoyed the Illusione 88 and Gran Habano Azteca this year.
Your “Top 10” was possibly the best one I’ve read regarding the just-ended 2011. Good selection, good explanations, good mix. I look forward to your future reviews. In the meantime, it was probably the Undercrown that surprised me the most this past year, especailly since I, too, haven’t been much of a Drew Estate fan. Happy New Year!
The Casa Magna Domus Magnus! Never got the last CM fiasco and cigar of the year thing, but this is the REAL THING!
Btw, one of the best and most balanced top 10 lists of the year and I am not just saying that.
Awesome top 10 list! Great giveaway too. My favorite cigar this year was the Tatuaje Fausto
Great list! My top smoke of the year has to be a CroMagnon, probably the mandible.
My favorite of the year was the Tatuaje TAA. Awesome cigar!
Hi i’m relatively new to cigar world so i’ve not got a great deal of cigars that i’ve tried,so far however my favourite is the butera vintage.
For those who have been saying that this is the best Top 10 List you’ve seen this year your comments will be deleted post haste because The Great Torpedo’s Top 10 List is so much better! LOL j/k
AJ’s Oval, great list of cigars.
Hey Charlie, great Top 10 list. For me, I can’t really provide a definitive favorite cigar of 2011 so I’ll give you my 1A, 1B and 1C. And those are……1A) E.P. Carrillo Core Line Maduro (Club 52), 1B) Casa Magna Domus Magnus, and 1C) Rocky Patel Fifty. What a great cigar that one is. I highly recommend you try it if you haven’t already. Thanks and keep up the good work.
Nice Contest! For my two cent’s worth, I’m going with the E P Carrillo New Wave, it was good, and thanks again,
I haven’t had a lot of cigars from your list but I did really get surprised by the La Casita Criolla that I smoked. Maybe being a fellow Connecticut native son had something to do with it as well.
Great list, Charlie, I can’t wait to try most of these. I picked up a box of Casa Magna Domus Magnus a few weeks ago and have to put it at the top of my 2011 list.
Thanks for the list. My top cigar of 2011 is certainly the Ambos Mundos Short No.1 Habano.
My favorite of the year was the La Flor Dominicana Air Bender. I do have several from this list that I definitely want to try. Thanks for the contest.
I will be adding several of these to my list of cigars to procure in the very near future. My favorite this year was the Alec Bradley Fine & Rare
Hey Charlie, good stuff bro. I have to say that my number stick would be the Quesda Oktoberfest in the Uber size 6X65.
An oldie but a goodie – Perdomo 10th anniversary champagne
Tie for me ….Casita Criolla was an instant classic for me…but by far was and have been impressed with Petes P Sumatra white label…bought boxes of them. Outstanding year for Pete. Here’s to 2012
Great list! The Federal 90th Rosado by Tatuaje was by far my best and most memorable cigar. With some Rodrigos trailing close behind.
Completely agree with the Casa Magna. I rushed out a stocked up after trying only one from Drapers. The SA Oval is also one of my top favs. AJ is just an absolute beast of a cigar maker. I’ve been smoking everything from him and E.P.C. this year.
My top new cigar of the year was the Undercrown. Looking forward to trying the rest you have listed in your top 10. Keep up the great work!
Best cigar for me that I keep coming back to is the La Palina El Diario in the torpedo. Great flavors.
Great top 10, I also frequent the Route 40 store in Delaware as I am a resident of the state and have to say my favorite cigar has to be the AF2 I have smoked at least a 2 boxes of these.
My top (11) picks for 2011, were the following (in random order):
1. Gurkha Black Dragon Fury Nublizer
2. Sosa Vintage Piramide #2
3. Padilla Series ’68 Black Bear
4. Padilla 1948 Edicion Limitada Robusto
5. Man O’ War Puro Authentico Corona
6. La Herencia Cubana CORE Dagger
7. My Father Le Bijou 1922 Petite Robusto
8. Cain Nub 460 Maduro
9. Diesel Unlimited d.6 (toro)
10.Pinar Del Rio Obsidian Double Perfecto
11. E.P. Carillo Club 52 Maduro
Can you tell that I like ’em dark, and stout (maduro/habano wrappered & full flavored)?
I would have to say that the Undercrown is my favorite from this year.
Great list! My favorite of 2011 is the Tatuaje Black Label Petite Lancero.
I have to go with the Jaime Garcia LE 2011. Runner ups are
LFD Colorado Oscuro
Tat Fausto
601 La Bomba
Illusione Ultra
Hey, Charlie, congrats on your debut year at stogiereview.com. Of your picks I particularly like the San Lotano Oval, even with some construction issues in my first 5 pack. However, my top 10 list is topped by the Tatuaje Miami VI Nobles, which was new to me in 2011. Great cigar, reaffirmed for me that medium bodied cigars can be full of flavor and not boring. Best wishes on your career and upcoming move, and keep working on that dissertation!
I have 3 that I just can’t get enough of,EP Carillo new wave,undercrown,my uzi weighs a ton.Thanks for putting this contest on.
Great list. I’ve had the pleasure of smoking 4 of 5 in each of your categories. The AF2 is delicious and I raved so much about the San Lotano Oval that my son gifted a box of them to me for Christmas. My favorite cigar is still out there somewhere. Raise the bar. The talent is definitely out there to keep us all excited. Thank you for your contribution to the cigar world.
Wow, tons of replies…..
My number one produced this year is probably the Quesada Espana Corona….
If I could count the OR Tat Black Petit Lancero… then that would be it, but it isn’t the reg productions that made it to the shelves…
Damn Charlie, Great list and write up!!! 2 Cigars that stood out for me this year were the Undercrown and La Casita Criolla. Thanks for the opportunity and have a great 2012!!
Great list! I don’t understand why the La Casita Criolla keeps landing at #1 on many lists, but that is also why I love the cigar industry so much. Everyone has different tastes and preferences, and that’s why we have options. I did agree with many of your choices, and some that I haven’t smoked I look forward to trying. Thanks for your blogging.
It is hands down the casa magna domus magnus optimus, and it should be at least in the top 5 of CA or their ranking wont be worth a dime 🙂
My favorite is the EP Carillo Maduro Encanto!
The Casa Magna was one the best cigars i’ve had in a long time. Didn’t think it would be that good. After smoking it one night went the next day to buy a box.
Solid list Charlie. Hands down, my favorite cigar this year has been the Illusione Epernay. Not so budget friendly which is unfortunate. I’ll give an honorable mention to the EP Carillo maduro.
Just recently getting into the hobby I don’t have very many to sort through. Really enjoyed the RP 15 as well as the Decade. Both were very well done. My favorite so far though was the Oliva Master Blends III. Excellent stick.
I would have to say for it was Joya de Nicaragua Dark Corojo. Was a strong finisher for me.
My favorite for 2011 would have to be the Tatuaje Black Petite Lancero.
Great list! This was by far my favorite list so far on Stogie Review. I gotta say I was blown away by the Undercrown and the EP Carrillo. I love both of those smokes. Keep up the great reviews.
The cigar of the year for me was the La Flor Dominicana Air Bender Chisel. I know this wasn’t a new release for 2011, but I initially bought these cigars for the novelty of the shape, but turned out to be so much more than a novelty. I have enjoyed other shapes from the Air Bender line, but must admit this is my favorite and by far, the one I most looked forward to.
Although I didn’t get a chance to try allot of your top 10 list I’ll be picking up a few of your recommendations. my Favorite for the year was Undercrown by Drew Estate. Thanks for the great year of smokes.
I would say my favorite for 2011 is a tie between the Undercrown and the EPC core line maduro.
Awesome list! my favorite cigar of 2011 was the Man O War Armada. But there were a ton a great cigars this year
Best cigar for me in 2011 was the Four Kicks by crowned Heads, closely followed by EPC Short Run
Great List. I’m looking forward to trying a few; namely the La Casita and the Casa Magna. Thanks for hosting the contest.
My favorite this past year was My Father Le Bijou 1922 Petite Robusto
Great list. I really have to get my hands on that Casa Magna.
My favorite cigar this year was hands down the re-release of the Padilla Miami 8/11.
Taste is just as good as the original. A little less strength, but a little more complexity. I only have 3 left, and I’m almost afraid to smoke them in case i can’t ever get them again.
Absolutely phenomenal.
Hey Charlie, great selections. And you’ve been a nice addition to the SR crew. Keep up the good work.
My favorite cigar of 2011 was the San Lotano Oval Toro. Great flavors, beautiful construction, and the toro is the perfect size IMHO. I could (and almost do) smoke one every day.
Mango
Your list is great! But you’re missing my favorite cigar from 2011!!! Quesada España was far and away the best stick of 2011, in my humble opinion! Undercrown, Oval and La Casita Criolla we all up there for me as well… Haven’t fired up any Emilio’s yet, I have a few of each resting… I better get on that!
Great selection and a great contest. I just found this site because someone reposted the contest on Twitter. I think my favorite of 2011 is a toss up between the Rodrigo Boutique Blend and the 262 Paradigm.
Casa magna Domus magna for sure.I bought 3 boxes after smoking one of them.
We share the same B&M and Gary’s entire Emilio line is amazing. Not sure if the AF2 is my favorite but if not it is a close second!
My top cigar of 2011 is the Tatuaje 7th Natural. Thanks for the contest!
My fav of 2011 was the Fausto followed closely by the Four Kicks.
favorite cigars of 2012
1. Arturo Fuente Hemingway Work of Art
2. E.P. Carillo New Wave
3. Oliva V
4. Ashton VSG Wiazrd
Bump!
Thanks for all of the comments about the CroMagnon.
Thanks for the recognition JJO, Spence, Taylor, DoubleRobusto, Jonathan H and Chris!
Skip
AVO Heritage Short Robusto easily my top favorite cigar of 2011
Room 101 Namakubi Roxxo
Tatuaje Fausto
Undercrown
Cromagnon Mandibule
My favorite cigar of the year was the Cromagnon Mandible aka The Beast – @Leo_Botl
My favorite cigar in 2011 was not a release from that year. The Illusione MJ12. I smoked it at The Owl Shop in New Haven… the last true cigar bar in Connecticut.
Forgot to offer up my cigar(s) of the year… Crowned Heads Four Kicks & EPC Short Run. Thanks for the contest!
room 101 connecticut
My cigar of the year would have to be the Padron 85 family reserve
Here are my top ten not in order of the 2011 cigars : Casa Magna Domus Magnus, Casa Fernandez Miami Toro Reserva, Padrón 1964 Anniversary Series Exclusivo, Alec Bradley Prensado Robusto, God of Fire Carlito Churchill, Illusione Cg4 White Horse, Illusione Epernay Le Monde, Rocky Patel 15th Anniversary Corona Gorda, Murcielago Cigars Churchill, Oliva Serie V Double Robusto……… There are worthy cigars mane are:Casa Fernandez Aganorsa Leaf Robusto, Rocky Patel Vintage 2003 Robusto, Cabaiguan Guapo, Alec Bradley Family Blend T11, Quesada Oktoberfest Uber Gordo……….Thanks to all the Stogie Reviews guys that you’ll helped me to decide on some of the cigars…..
Favorite smoke was the san lotano oval!
DAaaamn, I need to try them all!
Favorite cigar: Casa Magna Colorado…enjoyed every bit of it.
I haven’t had any luck finding the Knuckle Dragger, but I refuse o give up!
The CroMagnons are available only from Skip at http://www.havacigarshop.com
Cigar of the Year for me was LFD AirBender. Great smoke.
I second the LCC. Such a great smoke that doesn’t get the credit it deserves!
Awesome job this year Charlie. Your list is spot on. The San Lotano Oval Robusto was my personal #1 cigar for 2011.
I discovered the Cu Avavna Punisher this year and I really like the intense heat and flavors
Oval knocked my socks off.. I feel anxious as it gets to the end. Silly but what a nice smoke. Thanks for the hard work on the site..
Still love the Epernay and Padron 64, great list nonetheless. Happy new years buddy.
I really liked the Cain F this year.
while it’s not a new smoke, 2011 marked the beginning of my love affair with the Padilla Signature 1932. What a smoke.
I have to say I really enjoyed the Oliva Serie V
Can’t find the Four Kicks Anywhere. Great Year End Picks.
My favorite of the year would probably have the be the wolfman from tatuaje. It was a terrific smoke that was long enough to be enjoyed for the whole 2 hours of little trick or treaters. A wolfman, fire outside, and hanging out with the family. Who could ask for anything else? Thanks gain for all that you guys do. Good luck in the upcoming year.
The four kicks robusto topped my list for 2011.
Very nice list Charlie! My top cigar for 2011 was the Curivari Reserva Limitada Robusto. Thank for the contest!
My top stick of the year was the Alec Bradley Tempus Maduro.
Charlie, my favorite new cigars of the year were the My Father corona gorda PuffnStuff SE, the Undercrown and La Casita Criolla – in no particular order. But the best cigar I smoked was the Liga Privada T-52 toro, my first but hopefully not last.
Thanks for the list and giveaway.
I’ve got a three-way tie going on…
Tatuaje Anarchy
LFD Colorado Oscuro
Joya de Nicaragua Antano 1970 Gran Consul
Long Eff’n Ashes…
My favorite for 2011:
Trinidad Fundadore
Thanks for the contest
Brickhouse and New Wave.
Alec Bradley Black Market
I am a self proclaimed tauaje HO, so I say the Tatuaje Wolfman and the Tatuaje Black Petite Lancero!!!
2011 didnt get any better than that!!!!
Nice giveaway! I would have to say that my favorite cigar of 2011 was the CAO Soprano edition.
Thanks for the giveaway. My favorite cigar of 2011 was the Tatuaje La Casita Criolla.
Great giveaway! My best of 2011 has to be Rocky Patel Decade.
I would definitely have to say the Montecristo White Court was my favorite. It was very different from a typical Monte, though still maintaining the classic quality one expects from the brand.
In no particular order…
Tatuaje 109 Rosado
Tatuaje Black PL
My Father Le Bijou CG
Liga Privada FFP
Great list!
Casa Magna Domus Magnus Limitada was my favorite 2011 smoke
Hey everyone. This is my first post at any cigar website, but I just wanted to thank everyone and stogiereview for all their knowledge and reviews. I just started really enjoying cigars in October so with my limited knowledge my favorites of 2011:
La Aroma De Cuba Mi Amor
Undercrown
One I know is not a new smoke but 601 green was quite delicious as well
Looking forward to trying Grimalkin, Four Kicks
and Casa Magna Domus Magnus
Favorite NEW cigar would be the NHC Capa Especial. Favorite overall is tougher … I had an awesome Behike 54, awesome PAM 45th, and awesome LPT52s.
Gotta go with the T52 overall due to the great value.
Charlie, love the list. I have only a few of these, but I am looking forward (hint hint) to trying the rest. Thanks for the good reviews and contest
My favorite smoke In 2011 is the Epernay by Illusione hands down it is the best cigar I’ve ever smoked.
Not a new release this year but I loved trying the CAO vision prana this year
Charlie nice list, New wave/lLa casita are my favorite.
I’d have to say my favorite smoke of 2011 was the Oliva Masterblends 3. Everything from the beautifully designed band to the extremely attractive wrap blew me away amidst the flavorful full-bodied taste. Hopefully the new year will brings us another exciting year of new blends!
My favorite was the Quesada Espana Corona. Thanks for the contest.
Great list. I’ll have to stock up.
I want to win this prize and I really like the quesada oktoberfest 2011 bavarian sixe
Thanks and good job!!!!!!!!!!1
Josh
I discovered and really enjoyed the Joya de Nicaragua Dark Corojo line this year.
nice list, i liked the casa magna domus!!
Nice List!
Nice list Charlie. The only one I have had from your list is the Little Robusto. There were many cigars that I enjoyed in 2011 but I would have to say that a Padron 40th that was gifted to me takes my number one spot.
My favorite 2011 cigar was, hands down, the Drew Estate Feral Flying Pig. I’m wondering if it’s late release was the reason for exclusion from these lists.Thanks. Keep up the good job.
Very nice list you missed the Tatuaje AVION!
Charlie, I can honestly say that I have only had one of these – San Lotano Oval, and though I like almost everything by AJ I like the Habano better than the Oval. Also I like the DPG JJ, but I have not (yet) had the little Robusto (again yet). I plan on getting these and honor JJ every year on our shared birthday.
I have a tie..I just couldn’t decide between the Crowned Heads Four Kicks robusto and the Cromagnon Knuckle Dragger..Both fantastic smokes..
Thanks for the contest..
Rob
thanks for the great line up. I definitely believe you have hit it on the nose with Crownhead, my local B&M owner pushed on at me and so glad he did not I have smoked half a box of them. The Undercrown (UC) is easily the underdog yet it keeps sneaking up on all the real lists like yours, just proves to me you know what your talking about! Keep up the great work and awesome gift give away, I would have posted this without contest..
Just smoked an AF2 yesterday and loved it! Also, if you have not had a 211 by Esteban Carreras…it’s fantastic and less than $6 at my local! My fav is probably the Colrado Oscuro by LFD this past year…and I did like the La Bomba when I tried it. Oh yeah, smoked a box of La Casita and San Latano Habano! Happy New Year!
The cigar that most in impressed me in 2011 was the San Lotano Oval. I have been a huge fan of A.J. Fernandez’s blends for awhile, but I was completely blown away by the Oval.
The undercrown was my favorite from this list this past year. The undercrown has become my new everyday stick.
I smoked the absolute best cigar of my life in 2011, a Diamond Crown figurado #6. Near perfect!
Being a newbie to the world of cigar appreciation, I haven’t had the opportunity to try many of the cigars I’ve seen reviewed on your site, but I’m hoping to change that this year. So far, my 2 favorites have been Arturo Fuente Gran Reserva and Rocky Patel Decade.
LFD Air Bender Maduro (Casa de Tobaco) is my choice for 2011. The addition of the maduro wrapper adds to the complexity of an already outstanding cigar. It was a tough choice though, the San Latano Oval is right there in a strong 2nd.
A great great list and because of this list, I went out and bought boxes of the following cigars:
– Casa Magna Domus Magnus Limitada
– La Casita Criolla
My Top 10 “Smoked” in 2011. 5 of them released in 2011 and 5 of them released before 2011:
#10 Tatuaje 7th Reserva Corona
#9 Tatuaje SW Reserva Maduro
A Holy Grail cigar. Found 7 sticks left in box buried at the bottom of a shelf at my local B&M
#8 La Flor Dominicana Colorado Oscuro Toro (2011 Release)
#7 EP Carrillo New Wave Connecticut (2011 Release) I am a decidedly “dark” leaf cigar smoker but I kid you not – do NOT sleep on this Connecticut shade stick. Yummy!!
#6 Quesada Oktoberfest (2011 Release)
#5 EP Carrillo Elencos Maduro” (2011 Release)
#4 Illusione mj12 “Maduro” (2011 Release)
#3 Viaje Satori Karma Limited Edition
#2 Carlos Torano 1959 Exodus 50 Year
And the Number ONE Cigar I Smoked in 2011………………………
My Father Limited Edition 2010
This cigar was extremely generously gifted to me by a friend who had only a few of these left when he told me I was about to smoke the BEST non-cuban cigar I have ever smoked. And he was #*@+-_!,@@#! right. I was supposed to meet a very good friend of mine at Chicago Cut Steakhouse (overrated BTW) and I lit the My Father up and walked to the Cut from my office as it was a nice late summer evening.
This cigar was soooooo frickin good that I think I actually “skipped” over instead of walked over. I got there a little early and found a bench on the river next to the Cut and was enjoying the smoke. My friend showed up and without hesitation I told him he was welcome to sit with me while I finished the cigar or he could go in a have a drink OR two but I wasn’t budging until I finished!
Without a doubt, cigar smokers are some of the most generous people in the world. My godfather told me a long time ago that “a true gentleman cigar smoker always carries an extra cigar for that fellow aficionado who is unfortunately without one”.
Happy New Year To ALL!
Gotta go with La Casita Criolla Corona size.
My favorite for the year was a Tatuaje Anarchy. This cigar did not make any lists but fit my smoking profile very well.
We have a winner! Check your email for instructions on how to claim your prize…
Great list Charlie. I always learn quite a bit from reading your reviews. The Illusione Epernay was my favorite this year. I wasn’t going to say what my other favorite was due to the flak I would get but here goes… Prensado! It’s true, being a daily cigar I found a churchhill in my humidor from at least 16 months ago and was blown away. Bought a box of the gran toro and wasn’t the same but that church… Wow.
My favorite NEW cigar in 2011 was the La Casita Criollo.
Man O’ War Armada
My favorite cigar of the year has to be the Cohiba 1966 Edicion Limitada 2011. Mmm….
Perdomo Reserve Limited Cameroon Edition Petit Corona a favorite.
Great list, as usual. As far as cigars that came out in 2011, I really enjoyed the Emilio cigars, particularly the Grimalkin. AB’s “Black Label” was great, as was the Zino Platinum.
SI My Father El Hijo
My fav cigar that I smoked in 2011 was the LFD Factory Press III. Smoking it with two friends on a warm summer evening made it even better.
Great list with a lot of good cigars! My favorites of 2011 were the Alec Bradley Prensando and San Latano Oval.
Macanudo Hyde Park
Thanks for the list Charlie. I can’t wait to try the CroMagnon. My favorite for 2011 is Alec Bradley American Classic, which is surprising because I am more of a full bodied fan but the American Classic was smoother than any other cigar I smoked in 2011 and had tons of interesting flavors. My #2 choice is AJ’s San Lotano Oval.
La casita criollo all the way!
Lots to choose from this year, but I would have to say my favorite was the Tatuaje Black Petite Lancero
Lp #9
The CroMagnon Knuckle Dragger wins hands down, as my favorite new smoke, and the best name for a stogie. Two opposable thumbs up!
My favorite this year was the Undercrown but I haven’t tried the knucle dragger yet!
I was surprised to see that I have actually had 6 off of this list, of those 6 my favorite hands down is the CroMagnon. My favorite size is the EMH, I’ve had them all but the EMH I think was even more flavorful than the others.I still am planning on tracking down some Four Kicks and the Emilios. The LaCasita was the only one I have not heard of so I need to find some of those too.
hey do you think that you could let me in on where you find your cigars, online, store, location? Just beginning but looking for new favorites to add to my list.
Have you tried any of the Stogie Review advertisers?
La Gloria Retro, MMMMmmm!
Hey,
I must say that last year was the first year that i really got into cigars. I began experiment all over the board from drew estate to acid and all kinds of other brands. But i must say that one of my favorite cigars was the Cao gold Maduro! Hands down one of the best and mildest social cigars if you ask me, but what do i know. I look forward to reading more and watching more of your reviews.
Stay Chill,
Stogie Novice (Taylor)
My favorite is Casa Magna Domus Magnus… Great!
My favorite cigar of 2011 is definitely the Liga Privada #9
I think my favorite cigar of the year was the CroMagnon EMH
Frank, from Tatuaje little monsters, without a doubt
favorite cigar i smoked this year was the liga privada by drew estate, its a very smooth cigar, good tobacco flavor and not to strong