[clintonh8r]

The Cuban smokes aren't what they used to be, given drought, parasites, lack of good fertilizer and deteriorating manufacturing standards on Isla de Fidel. The best non-Cubans are just as good as Cubans, I believe.

I've tried many Opus X's, but can't say I enjoy them as much as the Don Carlos. Juan Sosa has told me he thinks the Don Carlos is the best cigar made, period. But it' all a matter of taste, which is what makes it such an interesting pursuit.

BTW, I like Jim Suckling. I think he's a good writer. I was a charter subscriber to CA, but let my subscription lapse a couple of years ago when it became more of a "lifestyle" magazine than a magazine about cigars.

[strela]

The best non-Cubans are just as good as Cubans, I believe.

I'd tend to agree - all of the Cubans I saw for sale were stored in the box; not a humidor in sight. I had no idea whether they would be as dry as dust when smoked. Forbidden fruit ...