No, definitely not.
Although I do think that's probably the draw for some cigar neophytes who just want to feel big about getting their hands on a Cuban.
If you're an experienced cigar smoker to the point where you can distinguish the subtle variations in flavors and pick up on those nearly imperceptible qualities of a good cigar, you'll notice there is something characteristic about quality Cubans that really sets them apart. There is nothing else like them. A good quality Cuban has such an array of complimentary flavors and just the right body that it makes most of the cigars you can buy in America taste like you're smoking a grocery bag.
Of course, I'm referring to the high quality stuff, like Hoyo de Monterrey, Partagas, Romeo y Julieta, etc. There are plenty of second rate Cubans that are rubbish compared to good Dominican or Honduran cigars today. Those two countries in particular have been making some very high quality cigars in recent years that really compete and stand up against some of the best Cubans. It's getting to be where there is little distinction anymore.
However, Cubans are held in high esteem not just in America, where they're "taboo", but also in most of Europe, where they're very available.
Thank you, that needed saying.
From a life-long Partagas lover. It is a shame that so many fakes have invaded the industry that most people never experience a true cuban anyway.
Yup. There is a perceptible difference in quality in the top-end product, though it probably won't be apparent if you are smoking junk cigars -- that would be like comparing California and French wine by tasting screw-top. By being very picky, I can find Dominicans and Hondurans that are roughly as good as Cubans, but arguably not quite as fine on average across the cigars from those locales.