Wouldn't it be almost impossible to "blind review" most of these cigars a 2nd time? The Padron 45 and Opus xXx, size/shape makes them pretty obvious right? Also people that are in the cigar industry for a living probably recognize specific taste right away. I'm no "expert" but I can tell a Padron 99% of the time, band or not.
I wondered the same thing. The Padron box press is hard to miss. And though I've never smoked a real ISOM, I'm told the distinct flavor of one is unmistakable from another smoke, say something from the Dominican Republic.
Not necessarily, young cigar lad. As Gary pointed out, when smoked blind, the power of suggestion that we put on Habanos is lost.
As for the number one, does CA share a similar process to WS whereby they account for cost as part of their process?
If so, the BHK, while good, may not be the numero uno cigar.