Quality Hand Rolled Cigars

Written by: Juan Panesso

October 11, 2023

Time to read 3 min

Hand Rolled Cigars is an art that combines centuries-old tradition with meticulous craftsmanship. Experienced torcedores, or cigar rollers, skillfully assemble each cigar by hand, using carefully selected tobacco leaves. The process begins with the selection of high-quality filler, binder, and wrapper leaves, each chosen for their unique flavor and texture. The torcedor then sorts and arranges these leaves to create a harmonious blend of flavors.

The roller delicately applies the binder leaf, which holds the filler together, and then carefully wraps the cigar with the wrapper leaf, which not only adds to the cigar's appearance but also influences its overall taste. Precision is key, as any imperfections in the rolling process can affect the draw, burn, and flavor of the cigar.

Hand-rolled cigars are a labor of love, with each step performed by skilled hands and a discerning eye. This craftsmanship results in cigars that offer a complex and nuanced smoking experience, making them a favorite among cigar connoisseurs worldwide.

In this list, we're unveiling the top 10 hand-rolled cigar brands that deserve a spot in your collection.

Ashton

For over 35 years, Ashton cigars have been a staple in premium cigar shops worldwide. Crafted by the renowned cigar maker Carlito Fuente in the Dominican Republic, Ashton cigars are made from the finest tobaccos. They have received high praise from critics, including Cigar Aficionado. Ashton's lineup includes popular choices like Ashton Classic, Cabinet Selection, and Aged Maduro. If you're seeking complexity, don't miss the Ashton VSG, ESG, Heritage, and Symmetry, all highly rated and offering a rich taste and aroma.

Arturo Fuente

The Fuente family has been a powerhouse in the cigar world for three generations, thanks to Arturo Fuente, Carlos Fuente, and Carlito Fuente. Despite facing numerous challenges, they've emerged as industry leaders. The Arturo Fuente portfolio is a testament to their success, featuring the rare Fuente Fuente Opus X, Don Carlos Eye of the Shark, and Añejo, all highly rated. Arturo Fuente cigars have claimed multiple 'Cigar of the Year' titles from Cigar Aficionado.

Padrón

Padrón cigars are known for their toothy, box-pressed beauties that critics adore. Their impressive lineup includes four 'Cigar of the Year' winners: Padrón 40th Anniversary, 1926 Series, Family Reserve, and 1964 Anniversary. Founder José Orlando Padrón started Padrón Cigars in 1964 after leaving Cuba, and today, his son Jorge leads the way. These cigars offer elaborate flavors of cocoa, cayenne pepper, cedar, spices, and leather, with prices ranging from $5 to over $20 per cigar.

La Aroma de Cuba

La Aroma de Cuba's demand has skyrocketed since its revival by the Levin family, owners of the Ashton brand. They enlisted master blender Jose 'Pepin' Garcia to create La Aroma de Cuba Cigars in Nicaragua, and the brand hasn't looked back. Offering great value, La Aroma de Cuba cigars start at just over $5 per cigar for the original 93-rated blend. Explore versatile and award-winning cigars like Mi Amor, Reserva, Edicion Especial, and Pasión.

My Father

Jose 'Pepin' Garcia, a Cuban cigar maker, started making cigars at age eleven. His determination to continue beyond Cuba led to My Father Cigars, created with his son, Jaime Garcia, and daughter, Janny Garcia. The family boasts two 'Cigar of the Year' titles: Flor de las Antillas and My Father Le Bijou 1922. Other favorites include Don Pepin Garcia Original, Jaime Garcia Reserva, La Opulencia, The Judge, La Promesa, and the original My Father blend, all known for their bold and spicy profiles.

Oliva

In the past two decades, Oliva has become a major Nicaraguan cigar manufacturer. With cigars like the 95-rated Oliva Serie V and 96-rated Serie V Melanio, they've gained critical acclaim. Even though the company was sold in 2016, Oliva continues to produce bold and spicy smokes like the 92-rated Master Blends 3. The Nub and Cain brands also call Oliva home.

San Cristobal

San Cristobal, born in 2007 as a small-batch blend by Jose 'Pepin' Garcia, has grown into a hot Nicaraguan brand. It boasts highly-rated cigars like the original 93-rated San Cristobal, 92-rated Revelation, 91-rated Elegancia, and the 95-rated Quintessence. San Cristobal cigars are renowned for their succulent and smooth profiles.

Perdomo

Nick Perdomo is known for crafting consistent, high-quality cigars at affordable prices. His hand-rolled Perdomo cigars come in various lines, like the 10th Anniversary Champagne and Habano Maduro. Perdomo blends most of his core lines in Natural, Maduro, and Sun Grown wrapper leaves to accommodate different tastes and budgets.

AJ Fernandez

AJ Fernandez's relentless work ethic led to his rise as a premium cigar maker. Blends like New World and Bellas Artes Maduro have gained acclaim for their bold and spicy profiles. AJ Fernandez cigars offer robust flavors and a variety of options.

Montecristo

Montecristo, a historic Cuban legacy brand, offers cigars made in the Dominican Republic and Nicaragua. The original Montecristo blend is mellow and grassy, while the 95-rated Montecristo 1935 Anniversary is fuller-bodied. Montecristo's wide range of profiles suits both beginners and experienced cigar enthusiasts.

In conclusion, these hand-rolled cigars represent the pinnacle of craftsmanship and flavor in the cigar world. Whether you're a seasoned cigar aficionado or just beginning your journey, these top 10 picks offer a diverse range of options to explore. Finding your favorite among these quality hand-rolled cigars is a journey filled with taste, aroma, and the art of cigar-making. Enjoy the experience

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