Chris' Top 5 Cigars of 2025
Posted on December 13 2025
Chris' Top 5 Cigars of 2025
(Released in 2025 or Smoked in 2025)
Every year, a lot of cigars get smoked. Very few actually stick.
This list isn’t about hype, allocations, or what looked good on Instagram. These are the cigars that earned repeat smokes, left an impression, and justified their place in rotation. Some were released in 2025, others weren’t, but all of them were smoked by me in 2025 and proved they belonged.
This is my list. Ranked. No ties.
#1 – Atabey Black Ritos (6.125×55)
Smoked in 2025 (not a 2025 release)
Atabey Black is what happens when refinement, balance, and restraint are executed perfectly.
The Ritos vitola delivers everything Atabey does best: polish, precision, and composure. This is not a cigar that tries to impress you in the first inch. It doesn’t need to. Instead, it builds quietly, cream, subtle sweetness, refined spice, and an unmistakable elegance that never slips into boredom.
Construction is flawless. Burn is dead-even. Draw is exactly where it should be. No corrections, no drama.
This is a cigar for people who actually smoke cigars, not chase strength or novelty. It’s expensive, yes. But it earns it. Easily the most complete smoking experience I had in 2025.
Why it’s #1:
Because nothing else on this list was as consistently excellent from start to finish.
#2 – Warped Isla del Cocodrilo “Croc Bites” Petite Torpedo Box Pressed (4.5×45)
Small cigar. Big statement.
Croc Bites punches well above its size, delivering intensity, flavor density, and character that most full-size cigars never achieve. The box-pressed petite torpedo format concentrates everything, spice, earth, sweetness, without feeling rushed or sharp.
This is a cigar with attitude. It’s bold without being reckless, flavorful without being sloppy. The shorter format makes it dangerous in the best way: you finish it wishing it were longer.
Why it’s #2:
Because it proves size is irrelevant when blending and construction are done right.
#3 – Wildfire Cottonwood Robusto (4.75×54)
Luxury Cigar Club Exclusive
Cottonwood is a perfect example of why exclusives matter when they’re done correctly.
This cigar delivers a rugged but controlled profile, earth, wood, natural sweetness, and a satisfying backbone of strength without tipping into harshness. It feels intentional from start to finish. Nothing flashy. Nothing out of place.
As an LCC exclusive, this cigar represents what we aim for: something members can’t just grab anywhere, that actually justifies the word “exclusive.”
Why it’s #3:
Because it’s honest, well-built, and delivers exactly what it promises, every time.
#4 – J. London Gold Series 10th Anniversary Corona Gorda (5.5×46)
This cigar is about elegance and balance, not brute force.
The Corona Gorda vitola suits the blend perfectly, allowing nuanced flavors to shine: soft spice, gentle sweetness, and a refined, classic profile that rewards slow smoking. It’s not a cigar that overwhelms, it invites.
Construction is excellent, and the narrower ring gauge keeps everything focused and clean.
Why it’s #4:
Because it’s a beautifully executed cigar that values refinement over volume.
#5 – Crowned Heads Tennessee Waltz OG (5×52)
Former Tennessee State Exclusive, now nationwide
Tennessee Waltz finally getting a broader release is a good thing, for everyone.
This cigar delivers a classic Crowned Heads experience: balance, approachability, and consistency. It’s not trying to be edgy or experimental. It’s just solid, reliable, and enjoyable.
While it doesn’t reach the complexity or memorability of the cigars above it, it absolutely earns its spot as a dependable, well-made smoke.
Why it’s #5:
Because consistency still matters, even if it doesn’t steal the spotlight.
Final Thoughts
This list wasn’t built in a vacuum. These cigars earned their ranking through real smoking time, not one-and-done impressions. Some surprised me. Some reminded me why I keep coming back to certain brands and blends.
If there’s a takeaway here, it’s this:
Balance, construction, and intent will always outlast hype.
If you smoked any of these in 2025, you already know why they’re here.
— Chris Doyle
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