Finding the best Maduro cigars is something many cigar lovers care about. Our team of cigar experts decided to find the top 12 Maduro cigars out of 33 really good ones. We know a lot about cigars, and we’ve spent 33 days testing them. Each day we tested a different cigar to find out which ones are the best. We kept them all in a special storage box called a humidor to make sure they were just right. Our main goal was to find cigars that have a perfect balance between taste and strength.
Criteria for Selection:
When it came to choosing the top 12 Best Maduro cigars, we didn’t just rely on taste alone. We looked at a balanced profile, where the flavor and strength worked together perfectly, without favoring one over the other. Beyond that, we considered several other factors:
Appearance: The visual appeal of the cigar, its color, and shape;
Construction: How the cigar is put together, indicating the skill involved in making it;
Quality of the Wrapper: The outer leaf’s texture and quality, which can influence the smoking experience;
Draw Resistance: How smoothly the smoke can be drawn from the cigar, affecting the enjoyment of smoking;Tobacco Blend Taste Complexity: The richness and variety of flavors in the tobacco, making each puff unique;
Consistency of Burning: How evenly the cigar burns, ensuring a consistent experience from start to finish;
Ash Produced: The quality and appearance of the ash, which can tell you a lot about the cigar’s composition;
Aroma: The fragrance of the cigar, both before lighting and while burning, adding to the overall pleasure.
All these elements combined to help us identify the truly exceptional Best Maduro cigars for our top 12 list, ensuring a top-notch experience for those who enjoy them.
Top 12 Best Maduro Cigars
After an intensive 33-day journey of testing and reviewing, we’ve arrived at our definitive list of the top 12 Best Maduro cigars. These selections represent the epitome of craftsmanship and flavor, each one a unique experience waiting to be savored by the true cigar enthusiast.
1. Drew Estate Liga Privada No 9
Cigar Specifications:
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Origin | Nicaragua |
| Filler | Honduran and Nicaraguan |
| Binder | Brazilian |
| Wrapper | Connecticut Broadleaf |
| Vitola | Toro |
| Ring Gauge | 52 |
| Length | 6 inches |
| Strength | Full |
| Body | Full |
| Handmade | Yes |
| Assembly | Well-constructed with an even burn |
The Drew Estate Liga Privada No. 9 is a renowned Maduro cigar known for its rich flavors and premium quality. Starting with a beautifully aged mahogany appearance, it offers an intricate taste journey, from fresh walnut and cedar to chocolate and espresso. Even the construction stands out with its straight roll and firm feel, showcasing the attention to detail that goes into crafting this cigar.
Smoking the Liga Privada No. 9 is a delightful experience, beginning with an impressive smoke output and continuing with subtle transitions between various flavors. The Cigar taste evolves from nutty hints to deeper notes of leather, pepper, and espresso. It provides a smooth, satisfying smoke, suitable for late-night enjoyment with friends or alone. The cigar’s burn is even, and the ash remains robust throughout the smoking experience.
If you’re considering buying a Liga Privada No. 9, you’ll be investing in an opulent and unique cigar, available at around $15 per stick. This cigar is a fitting choice for those looking for a full-bodied experience and offers a variety of pairing options, from snacks like dark chocolate to beverages like añejo rum or espresso coffee. Whether you’re a seasoned cigar aficionado or simply looking for a special treat, the Liga Privada No. 9 could provide a memorable and pleasurable experience.
For More Details please check the complete Drew Estate Liga Privada No. 9 Review.
- Rich Flavor Profile
- Quality Construction
- Appealing Appearance
- Smooth Smoking Experience
- Versatile Pairings
- Good Aging Potential
- Not for Beginners
- Potential for Variation in Flavor
- Price Point
- Potential Burn Issues
- Appearance May Not Suit All Tastes
2. Oliva Serie V Melanio Maduro
The Oliva Serie V Melanio Maduro is a robustly crafted cigar that stands out for its top-notch construction and inviting blend of flavors. Its striking coffee bean hue, firm spring, and lack of veins are complemented by subtly enticing aromas of nutmeg, cacao, and cinnamon. Each puff reveals a complexity of taste, from the initial hit of rosewood and molasses to the later notes of pistachio nut, charred bay leaf, and licorice. This cigar offers a well-rounded smoking experience that’s delightfully smooth on the palate, making it a pleasure to smoke from start to finish.
Aesthetically, the Melanio Maduro sports the same band as the original Serie V Melanio, subtly distinguished by the “Maduro” marking on the secondary band. The cigar comes elegantly packaged in a wooden box, adding to its premium appeal. Priced at about $9 per single, the Melanio Maduro provides excellent value, marrying luxury with affordability. This versatile cigar fits a variety of occasions, making it a great choice whether you’re at a high-end event or simply enjoying a quiet evening at home.
In terms of pairings, Melanio Maduro’s aromatic flavors complement cured ham or dark chocolate well, enhancing the overall smoking experience. Fine Champagne cognac, dark-aged rum, or a dark-roasted espresso are beverages that would pair exceptionally well with this cigar. Overall, the Oliva Serie V Melanio Maduro is an exquisite choice for anyone looking to enjoy a complex yet accessible smoke, regardless of whether you’re a seasoned cigar aficionado or a beginner exploring the world of cigars.
- Excellent construction and firm spring.
- Complex and varied flavors.
- Good value for money.
- Suitable for a range of occasions.
- Pairs well with a variety of foods and drinks.
- Medium to full-bodied smoke.
- Ash can be flaky.
- Residual scent might not be as pleasant as other cigars.
- Banding too similar to the original Serie V Melanio.
- Wrapper lacks an oily sheen.
- Draw might feel resistant to some.
- Long smoking time may not suit everyone.
3. Mombacho Cosecha
The “Mombacho Cosecha” is a limited-edition cigar you’re going to want to experience. Its making is similar to that of exquisite champagne, produced only when the tobacco harvest in Nicaragua is exceptionally good. It’s like a celebration of an excellent harvest, skillfully encapsulated in a cigar.
At the core of this cigar is single-harvest Jalapa tobacco. Jalapa, in Nicaragua, is celebrated for its top-quality tobacco. But Mombacho doesn’t stop there. To ensure a harmonious blend, tobaccos from other regions and different years are also introduced into the mix, enhancing the overall experience.
If you’re looking for something that stands apart from the usual, the Mombacho Cosecha is your go-to. It’s not just a cigar, it’s a unique experience that captures the essence of a good harvest. Light it up, sit back, and let the Cosecha take you on an exclusive journey of flavors.
- Limited edition for exclusivity.
- High-quality single-harvest Jalapa tobacco.
- Unique blend with a variety of tobaccos.
- Provides a special, memorable experience.
- Limited availability due to exclusive release.
- Possibly higher cost due to exclusivity and quality.
- Might not be ideal for beginners.
4. Avo Classic Maduro
Moving onto the 4th pick in our list of top 12 Best Maduro cigars, we turn our attention to the Avo Classic Maduro. This standout cigar holds a special place in the annals of cigar history. It was first introduced in the 1980s and then sadly discontinued. However, to the delight of cigar aficionados worldwide, it made a triumphant return as part of the 30th Anniversary celebrations of Avo Cigars and has since secured its place in the brand’s main Classic Line. Today, you can enjoy it in three appealing vitolas: Robusto, No. 2 Toro, and No. 3 Double Corona.
The Avo Classic Maduro, a handmade gem from the renowned O.K. Cigars factory in the Dominican Republic, has a tantalizing blend that makes it truly distinctive. It features a Connecticut Broadleaf wrapper housing a Dominican binder and filler.
This cigar catches the eye with its seal brown hue and mostly even rolling consistency. Despite the occasional soft spot, the cigar feels firm to the touch and promises a satisfying smoking experience. The pre-light aroma profile is intriguing, revealing hints of labdanum, ground coffee, and resinous agarwood.
Once lit, the Avo Classic Maduro takes you on a unique flavor journey. Starting with a creamy cereal malt note in the first third, the cigar transitions to a clove note with an undercurrent of Kirschwasser, a cherry fruit brandy. As you move into the second third, the fruitiness subsides, making way for a gourmand mix of cocoa bean, agarwood, and tonka bean.
In the final third, you’ll encounter a robust coffee bean note, a deep leather character, and a hint of nutmeg. Contrary to the expectation of a heavy body from Maduro cigars, this one is beautifully medium-bodied, providing a balanced and evenly distributed palate stimulation.
In conclusion, the Avo Classic Maduro proves a stellar addition to our list, breaking the typical Maduro mold with its complex yet medium-bodied profile. The smooth and gratifying smoking experience is complemented by high-quality construction and a resistant ash backbone. Its versatile character makes it an excellent choice for various occasions, from formal events to casual get-togethers. Offering great value for money, it’s a worthy investment for any cigar enthusiast or collector. Without a doubt, the Avo Classic Maduro is an exceptional offering in the world of Maduro cigars.
- Medium-bodied profile.
- Complex flavor journey.
- High-quality, handmade construction.
- Excellent ash backbone.
- Versatile for various occasions.
- Reasonable pricing for the quality.
- Occasional soft spots on certain vitolas.
- Not a traditional, strong-bodied Maduro.
- Absence of Piramides vitola in the lineup.
- Optimal enjoyment requires careful pairing.
5. Foundation Cigars The Wise Man Maduro
As we delve further into our list of the top 12 best Maduro cigars, we arrive at the fifth spot, which is occupied by a stellar creation – the Foundation Cigars’ The Wise Man Maduro. This cigar, crafted by the talented Nick Melillo, a rising star in the cigar industry, boasts an impressive blend of Nicaraguan binder, Nicaraguan filler from Aganorsa, and a Mexican San Andrés wrapper. Its presentation is a testament to Nick’s attention to detail, with each cigar housed in elegantly crafted thin wooden boxes, holding 25 cigars each.
The Wise Man Maduro is not just a cigar; it’s a rich tapestry of flavors that keeps you engaged from the first puff to the last. Full-bodied but not overwhelming, it balances its robust profile with an intricate interplay of sweet and savory notes.
Each puff delivers a burst of cocoa and vanilla that beautifully complements the underlying meaty, beef-stock qualities of the tobacco. As you delve deeper, bold undertones of espresso, sweet roasted nuts, leather, cashews, cacao, and black pepper make their grand entrance, providing a full-bodied smoking experience that’s both assertive and interesting.
It’s also worth noting the cultural nod behind this cigar. Underneath the English name, you’ll see “El Güegüense,” the name of a folkloric dance in Nicaragua, which loosely translates to “the wise man.” This addition underscores the cigar’s roots and Nick’s desire to connect his creation to the culture of the place where its core components originate. Although the Wise Man Maduro is an offshoot of the original El Güegüense, it stands out on its own, introducing a whole new level of complexity with its San Andrés wrapper.
- Rich Nicaraguan-Mexican blend.
- Sweet and savory flavor profile.
- Elegantly packaged.
- Balanced, bold smoking experience.
- Cultural charm in naming.
- Too full-bodied for some.
- Cultural naming may not connect with all.
6. Perdomo 20th Anniversary Maduro
As we delve further into the lineup of top-notch Best Maduro cigars, the Perdomo 20th Anniversary Maduro stands proudly at the sixth spot. Celebrating 20 years of unwavering dedication to quality and craftsmanship, Perdomo’s 20th Anniversary Maduro is a gem of Nicaraguan origin. A puro, the cigar incorporates Cuban Seed Maduro wrapper, binder, and filler – all from the fertile lands of Estelí, Condega, and Jalapa.
The most distinctive feature is the 14 months that the wrapper spends maturing in bourbon barrels, adding a complex depth to its profile. However, it’s not just the taste that captivates you. The vernished oak hue of the wrapper, the straight roll, and the firm spring are all markers of a meticulously crafted cigar.
Inhaling its enticing aroma of tonka bean, charred oak, and molasses sets the stage for what is to be a remarkable smoking journey. The 20th Anniversary Maduro offers an ideal resistance on the dry draw, which beautifully sets the stage for the first third that mesmerizes with an orchestra of cinnamon, tonka bean, and rosewood. This cigar distinguishes itself with the continuity of its flavors, offering a seamless transition from the pre-lighting experience to the actual smoking.
The second third delivers a fuller body and a richer flavor profile with agarwood, charred bay leaf, and a hint of pepper leading the charge. By the final third, a shift to deep oak notes marks a punchy ending, though the pepper and bay leaf persist, contributing to a long and savory finish.
Perdomo’s 20th Anniversary Maduro is not merely a cigar but an experience, and like any experience, it’s not without its slight inconsistencies. Despite having an ideal resistance, the cigar does display a somewhat wavy burn line and a flaky ash backbone. That being said, it’s the complexity of flavors, the evolution throughout the smoke, and the balanced palate stimulation that make this cigar a truly worthwhile experience. Its robust body might not be the first choice for a beginner, but for an experienced cigar smoker, it delivers in every puff.
- Complex and evolving flavor profile.
- Ideal draw resistance.
- Excellent craftsmanship.
- Somewhat wavy burn line.
- Flaky ash backbone.
- Might be overwhelming for beginners.
7. Oliva Master Blends 3
Continuing down the road of excellence, we land on the rich, hearty embrace of the Oliva Master Blends 3, a cigar that radiates elegance and robust flavor. Produced by the esteemed Oliva Cigars, this isn’t a limited run but a well-established part of their regular production since 2006. The Oliva Master Blends 3 stands out not only for its unique oval-pressed shape, a testament to the innovative craftsmanship of Tabacalera Oliva de Nicaragua, S.A. but also for the distinctively mottled cacao nib hue of its Connecticut Broadleaf wrapper.
Its Nicaraguan Ligero blend filler and Nicaraguan Habano binder combine to offer a medium to full-bodied smoking experience, estimated at 95 minutes for the Churchill variant. Starting with the pre-lighting experience, the Oliva Master Blends 3 delivers just the right level of resistance. Its tonka bean, licorice, and dark chocolate aromas tantalize your senses, setting the stage for the nuanced performance to follow.
As you progress through the thirds of this cigar, it takes you on a flavorful journey, starting with the signature Oliva black pepper flavor, transitioning into charred bay leaf and marzipan notes, and finally culminating in a rich licorice and coffee bean crescendo. These flavors, combined with an even palate stimulation and a long, satisfying finish, make the Oliva Master Blends 3 a cigar that leaves a lasting impression.
Despite its complex flavor profile and handmade quality, the Oliva Master Blends 3 comes at a surprisingly accessible price point, making it an excellent choice for both special occasions and casual gatherings. It’s a versatile cigar that fits seamlessly into a range of settings, from premium clubs to backyard barbecues. The potential pairing options are equally varied, with aged Spanish-style añejo rum and espresso coffee among the top recommendations.
- Innovative oval-pressed shape.
- Distinctive and nuanced flavor profile.
- Versatility for various settings and pairings.
- Accessible price point for its quality
- Wavy burn angle.
- Flaky ash backbone.
- Tendency to heat up if drawn too quickly.
- Subtler residual scent compared to other Oliva variants.
8. Nub Double Maduro
With an expansive range of rich flavors and aromas, the Nub Double Maduro, affectionately known as the “Nub Dub,” secures a well-deserved spot on our list of 12 Best Maduro cigars. This cigar is a testament to Oliva’s creative exploration with the use of a double layer of Maduro wrapper, providing a smoking experience unlike any other. Despite its full-bodied declaration, the Nub Dub surprises with a balanced complexity that evolves progressively, enticing both beginners and seasoned cigar enthusiasts alike.
Delving into the experience, the Nub Dub imparts a delectable interplay of flavors. The first third introduces a robust palate of dark chocolate, charred oak, and a hint of bitter espresso, a flavorful entry that entices the senses. Transitioning into the second third, the body swings towards the medium mark with a smooth bouquet – the charred oak extending its presence, complemented by a leathery labdanum note and a whisper of licorice root. As you traverse into the final third, a peppery intensification takes the stage, bringing a full-bodied finish with warm walnut and sweet cedar notes harmoniously aligning with the ever-constant charred oak.
Pairing this Maduro cigar with a dark rum or smoky single malt Scotch, or even an Italian Espresso, could heighten your enjoyment, seamlessly tying in with the Nub Dub’s character. While the cigar is slightly more expensive than regular Nubs, the unique smoking experience it offers justifies the cost. The smaller, convenient box size containing 10 cigars is also an added advantage for those who want to try this exquisite cigar without committing to a larger purchase.
- Rich and evolving flavor profile
- Ideal for both beginners and seasoned enthusiasts
- Convenient packaging and size for easy carrying
- Good pairing potential with various beverages
- Slightly more expensive than other Nub cigars
- Might be too subtle for those seeking a full-bodied Maduro experience
- Availability primarily in boxes, not in singles
9. Perdomo Champagne Noir
The Perdomo Champagne Noir is the epitome of craftsmanship, a testament to the mastery of Nick Perdomo’s cigar-making expertise. It stands out as a blend that seamlessly caters to both newcomers and seasoned aficionados alike, thereby cementing its place in our list of top 12 best Maduro cigars. Its uniqueness stems from its sublime blend of Nicaraguan long leaves enveloped in an aged Connecticut shade wrapper – a combination that lends the cigar an exquisite, unforgettable smoothness.
The cigar’s allure doesn’t end at the blend; its manufacturing process is also intriguing. The Cuban-seed Maduro wrapper undergoes a triple-fermentation process, with each round lasting for over 14 months, and is then aged for an additional 6 months in oak bourbon barrels. This aging process, reminiscent of Perdomo’s 20th Anniversary production, imparts a distinctive richness and depth to the Champagne Noir that sets it apart from its competitors.
Despite its exceptional quality, the Perdomo Champagne Noir doesn’t break the bank. Its remarkable affordability makes it a cult favorite among cigar enthusiasts, offering an unmatched experience that far exceeds its cost. With each full box purchase, you stand a chance to earn a tenfold increase in cigar points, which are redeemable on your next order, making it an offer you simply cannot resist.
- Smooth, well-crafted cigar.
- Unique blend of ingredients.
- Distinctive flavor from triple-fermented wrapper.
- Additional richness from barrel aging.
- Excellent value for money.
- Not for robust flavor seekers.
- High demand can limit availability.
- Reward system requires full box purchase.
10. La Gloria Serie ‘R’ No. 5 Maduro Cigars
For those in search of a full-bodied cigar that delivers an exceptional blend of earthy and spicy notes, the La Gloria Serie ‘R’ No. 5 Maduro cigars are an excellent choice. Falling into the mid-price range, these cigars outperform their category by providing a smoking experience that can easily extend over two hours. Smoke it slow, and you might even push that to three. This, in my view, elevates them to the realm of budget cigars considering the value they deliver.
Their robust flavor profile is not the only aspect that captivates the smoker’s attention. The construction quality of these cigars is simply top-notch. I am sure many of you share my sentiment about unevenly burning cigars; they can be quite a nuisance. Fortunately, with the La Gloria Serie ‘R’ No. 5, you are investing in a cigar that promises consistent, even burning—a testament to its superior construction. At the time of writing, you can acquire a box of 24 of these cigars for $181 from Famous Smoke, which averages to about $7.54 per stick.
The composition of these cigars is a masterful blend of Nicaraguan ligero and aromatic Dominican Olor tobaccos, meticulously hand-rolled in thick, oily Maduro wrappers. The wide ring size amplifies the smoking experience, offering you a profound immersion in the dark, spicy flavor of the tobacco. I must mention that Gotham Cigars, while not offering these specific ones, do carry the double corona #7 from La Gloria, for those interested.
- Full-bodied, earthy, and spicy notes.
- 2-3 hours of smoking time.
- Superior construction quality.
- Good value for money.
- May be too strong for beginners.
- Limited availability.
- Prices may vary.
11. Tatuaje Reserva Nicaragua Petite Tatuaje
Revisiting a classic, the Tatuaje Reserva Nicaragua Petite Tatuaje brings us a timeless blend that rekindles the unique flavors of traditional Cuban cigars. Masterminded by Tatuaje and Don Pepin Garcia from the esteemed My Father factory, the Petite Tatuaje is a well-balanced fusion of quality and affordability.
On unwrapping the box, the rich Maduro Connecticut Broadleaf wrapper caught my eye, the gateway to a handpicked assortment of premium Nicaraguan tobaccos. Right off the bat, the Tatuaje offers an inviting medley of woodsy, coffee, and dark chocolate notes. It’s interesting how these flavors fluctuate in strength as the cigar burns, beginning with a stronger chocolate note that gradually gives way to dominant woodsy tones toward the end. Some colleagues also report a hint of leather, a taste I’ve yet to discover in any cigar.
Despite its full-bodied smoke, the Petite Tatuaje is remarkably smooth, delivering an adventurous premium experience without the hefty price tag. These petite cigars, essentially cigarillos, offer a satisfying 30-45 minute smoke. And the pricing is worth noting; I found a box of 50 at Famous Smoke for just $168.99 – a deal that breaks down to a modest $3.38 per stick. Truly, the Tatuaje Reserva Nicaragua Petite Tatuaje offers a refined, economical, and tasteful smoke that can fit right into a busy schedule.
- Rich blend of flavors
- Smooth despite being full-bodied
- Reasonably priced
- Compact size for shorter smoke sessions
- Flavors may fluctuate during smoke
- Not available in all outlets
- Leather undertones not identifiable to all smokers
12. Padron 1964 Anniversary Maduro
Closing our list of top 12 Best Maduro cigars, we arrive at a true piece of art in the smoking world – the Padron 1964 Anniversary Maduro. With a rich heritage and a reputation that resonates with luxury and excellence, this cigar indeed lives up to the Padron name.
The first encounter with this cigar is an aesthetic pleasure. Its dark brown, marbled wrapper presents a pleasing texture, catching the eye and intriguing the senses. As you take in its earthy, woody scent, you already anticipate the flavor journey that awaits. Upon lighting it up, you’re welcomed with an initial burst of wood flavor, beautifully intertwined with a subtle yet assertive spiciness. As the smoke progresses, the intensity mellows, paving the way for a well-rounded and engaging experience. As you reach the end, the wood flavor makes a robust return, paired harmoniously with the initial spice, leaving an impressive finish.
What sets the Padron 1964 Anniversary Maduro apart is its flawless construction. Of all the cigars we’ve experienced, this one arguably tops the list in terms of construction quality. It features a perfect draw, enhancing the pleasure of every puff. The only drawback is the price – at $18.55 per stick on Famous Smoke, this is a premium choice. However, for those who appreciate the craftsmanship and sophisticated flavor profile, it’s an investment worth making.
- Exceptional construction quality
- Complex flavor profile with notes of wood and spice
- Perfect dra
- High price per stick
- Not readily available at all retailers
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