Definition of Premium

[oke&coke]

This topic has been brought up in several contests now so I thought it would be a good idea to discuss it. The issue is what constitutes a premium cigar. To my understanding, and the rules of contests I have seen, $8 minimum average stick price is the current benchmark. The issue that has come up is that some sticks that do meet the price point may not be viewed as being premium at least to some people. Case in point, I recently did a review of the Ave Maria Divinia with a list price of +$12. To some, myself included, that would not be worthy of inclusion as a premium despite the price tag.

To my knowledge, the reasoning for having a benchmark price is to ensure that everyone made an equal contribution price wise and to remove some of the subjectivity as to what is premium. As we all know, tastes vary. Part of the problem seems to be that the price gap between brands such Anejo, OpusX and Padron that have a reputation as premium and other brands that don't, seems to have narrowed.

Is the possibility of sub-par cigars at the correct price point something that must lived with? Should the benchmark for premium be tweaked? Your thoughts and opinions are greatly appreciated.

 

[MadMonk]

If you have to go beyond simply a long filler cigar, I would think the grade of the component tobaccos are more definitive versus subjective taste opinions. 
According to a friend who is in the industry, a lot of those hit or miss store brands are lower grade tobaccos. Regardless, for purposes of this insanity, I think "Long Filler" is the best distinction.

 

[sterlingnotes]

Premium cigars are long filler, hand made cigars... price point isn't a factor. 
I tend to think of the higher priced premium cigars as super-premium.

 

[looking for knowledge]

It's hard to go by MSRP. Brands like Ghurka and Graycliff put a relatively large MSRP value on their sticks, but then dump them in bulk to online warehouse retailers like CI. 

 

[madurotrout]

Good topic question. I agree with what has been said above. Actual value vs. Perceived value. When in doubt...always be conservative.

 

[Devil Doc]

I like it.
 
Doc

 

[looking for knowledge]

Cuban Honeys are "long filler hand made." And about $1.60 each.

 

[AVB]

Send me all of your cigars and when I am done I'll let you know which were premiums.

 

[kann]

Premium cigars are long filler, hand made cigars... price point isn't a factor. 
I tend to think of the higher priced premium cigars as super-premium.

 
That's my take on it, too.
 

Cuban Honeys are "long filler hand made." And about $1.60 each.

 
And the Cuban Honey will be equally taxed like a motherfucker, along with all the rest of the premium cigars.

 

[Peterk814]

Nothing wrong with a cheap and cheerful cigar