Devin, I count three STG cigars amongst Cigar Aficionado’s top 25: Partagas (#6), Alec Bradley (#8), and Cohiba (#16). Is my count correct? Given that STG is one of the biggest (if not the biggest?) manufacturer of handmade cigars, does this indicate that the market is very fragmented?
Definitely more fragmented on the high end - I also don't know anyone who smokes cigars that just stays with one specific brand and vitola. People like to explore. The Partagas and Cohiba you mention are actually from Habanos S.A., Cuban version, not STG's. I think it's interesting to look at how few Cuban cigars are on the list, despite their historical status. Also note their relative price points!
Devin, I count three STG cigars amongst Cigar Aficionado’s top 25: Partagas (#6), Alec Bradley (#8), and Cohiba (#16). Is my count correct? Given that STG is one of the biggest (if not the biggest?) manufacturer of handmade cigars, does this indicate that the market is very fragmented?
Definitely more fragmented on the high end - I also don't know anyone who smokes cigars that just stays with one specific brand and vitola. People like to explore. The Partagas and Cohiba you mention are actually from Habanos S.A., Cuban version, not STG's. I think it's interesting to look at how few Cuban cigars are on the list, despite their historical status. Also note their relative price points!