Sampler Mix 90+: an all 90-plus anthology

An all-star lineup

Unlike an ordinary sampler, this set is curated from sticks rated 90 and above. The Plasencia Reserva Original Toro (6"x50) scores 92, and Plasencia is famous for a deep tobacco-growing heritage in Nicaragua. The EP Carrillo Allegiance Side Kick (5"x50) is the brightest star here at 95 points.

Rounding out the cast is the Penn Standard Magnum 54 (6.5"x54), the Warped Cloud Hopper No. 485 (5"x48) at 93 from a small, much-hunted workshop, and the Joya de Nicaragua Cinco Decadas El Cumiche (5.2"x52) at 91, a five-decade tribute line from Nicaragua's oldest house.

What the shapes and ring gauges tell you

Four of the five sit in the 48 to 54 ring range, meaning full, cool, layered smoke. The Cloud Hopper at 48 ring is the slimmest, ideal for a quick coffee when you still want top quality without a free hour.

The Penn Standard and Plasencia toros at 6 to 6.5 inches are the long-haul cigars, saved for an evening when you want to sit and let the flavor unfold through all its layers.

How to do them justice

Because this is a high-scoring lineup, don't rush. Cut clean, toast evenly with a wooden match or soft flame, and draw slowly to catch the shift from the opening third to the nub. Sticks rated 93 to 95 usually show best in the middle third, so that's where to focus.

An unpeated whisky or a strong black coffee makes a good companion, so nothing overpowers the refinement the judges praised.

Who it's for

This set suits someone with an established palate who wants a week of smoking with no weak link. It's also a handsome gift for a cigar lover you want to impress, since each stick carries a clear scoring pedigree.

If you're shaping your own taste across the many Nicaraguan and Central American styles, this is the safe and high-class way to do it.

Specifications