Commentary: Cigar Consistency is No Hobgoblin

Consistency with cigars is a trait often observed in the breach. We can all think of manufacturers who’ve had a hard time shaking a reputation for a lack of consistency.

Of course, we can also think of companies whose products are remarkably consistent. Yet it is not often included among the common compliments cited when cigars are reviewed.

Nowadays, with the proliferation of limited editions and one-shot issues where consistency is of little import, I fear it may be regarded even less. I think that’s a shame.

Knowing that a cigar you smoke today will be like one you smoked last month or last year—as well as a year or two from now—is important.

I thought about this the other day when I lit a Perdomo Lot 23 Robusto. I first smoked a Lot 23 (a Toro) more than nine years ago. My review wasn’t particularly favorable. Then, about three years ago, I went back to the line and sampled the Robusto. I changed my mind. It was a most enjoyable smoke.

And, since that time, I’ve almost always had at least a few of the moderately priced Lot 23s in my humidor. When I pick one up I know I’ll have a good experience.

Making consistent cigars is no small trick. It involves a great deal of investment. Investment in time, material, and personnel.

First, there’s got to be enough tobacco to keep making the cigars. And that tobacco must be carefully processed and aged. Only a talented and skilled blender can note the natural variances in harvest years and make the necessary tweaks to get the same results. Only skilled workers can produce the cigars to standards year in and year out.

Consistency, too, seems to be something many cigar smokers don’t value much when looking at cigar prices. Paying $15 or $20—or more—without complaint for a limited edition cigar is quite common. Yet many smokers resent a similar price for a cigar that’s been manufactured to consistent high standards for years.

All of which is something to contemplate the next time you light up or go searching through the humidor at your local tobacconist.

–George E

photo credit: Stogie Guys