[Squid]

Let's keep it real. CA isn't a bad read, but folks can't take these ratings too seriously. Same thing for SMOKE and the other cigar mags that annually rate sticks. Remember....these type rankings and reviews brings readership to the magazine and most often, it also brings advertising $$$'s to it as well from many of those companies that they've rated highly.

What I use the ratings for is to sample sticks throughout the year for special occasions and evenings that I'm looking for just something a little unique to light up...and I am frequently disappointed. For the most part...I have my routine "go to" smokes that satisfy my daily desires. I have had many sticks that didn't make this list that I'd fight someone over to have another. I have found the old adage works best, at least for me....SMOKE WHAT YOU LIKE AND LIKE WHAT YOU SMOKE. Don't get caught up in the marketing and promotion...and don't get caught up trying to get your hands on everthing. If you do...you'll go broke or come away pretty dissatisifed. I find enjoying the moment quite often boosts the smoking experience...not the chase.

The Casa Magna is actually a pretty good stick IMHO...but, being the number 1 stick is quite suspect. It is priced quite good, though. Good to see the La Gloria Cubana on the list...one of my favorite producers of quality sticks at a reasonable price. Most of the Cubans are undoubtedly some quality smokes.

Gotta say, though....where I draw the line is the price of some of these sticks. Maybe it's just my tastebuds...but, I just haven't found a smoke yet that costs $30.00+ that makes me want to toss much lower priced sticks from my humi!