Caesar

La GALERA Imperial Jade Toro is the CÆSAR Cigar Of The Year 2025

“Best Palate Cigar” won by A J Fernandes Dias de Gloria Brazil Toro

“Best Look & Feel / Pre-Light” award goes to LAMPERT Edicion ORO Perfecto

“Best Burn Cigar” prize went to Rocky Patel ALR Second Edition Toro

Continuing a tradition of nearly ten years, the CÆSAR Cigar of the Year Jury reunited once again for a fresh edition of the European competition.

As with every year, the event brought together nine independent cigar aficionados, all professionals from fields unrelated to cigar distribution or import businesses. In keeping with the well-established principles of the contest, the process remained entirely independent: jury members fully supported the sessions, while importers contributed only with the cigars entered into competition.

This year, just 10 cigars reached the final stage, where they were rigorously evaluated by the jury using an internationally recognized 100-point scoring grid. After individual scoring, the highest and lowest marks were removed, and the average of the remaining scores determined the final ranking. Based on this system, the cigar that secured the highest distinction — CÆSAR Cigar of the Year 2025 — was revealed.

All tastings were performed under “blind” conditions: cigars were stripped of all identifying features and banded only with plain white rings numbered 1 to 10. These numbers were assigned randomly in advance, during a meeting attended by organizers and importer representatives, but not by members of the jury .

The prestigious title of CÆSAR Cigar of the Year 2025 was awarded to La GALERA Imperial Jade Toro, a cigar that impressed with its refined complexity and balanced flavor profile, offering an exceptional smoking experience.

For the second consecutive year, three special awards of global uniqueness were also presented:

“Best Palate Cigar” went to A J Fernandes Dias de Gloria Brazil Toro, celebrated for its distinguished and flavorful taste, delivering an explosion of sensations.
“Best Look & Feel / Pre-Light” was earned by LAMPERT Edicion ORO Perfecto, praised for its impeccable appearance, wrapper quality, and flawless craftsmanship.
“Best Burn Cigar” was awarded to Rocky Patel ALR Second Edition Toro, which stood out for its consistently even burn and superb smoking experience.

The event once again showcased the artistry of master blenders and the ever-growing quality of premium cigars, edition after edition.

The 2025 Jury was honored by the presence of His Excellency Hassan Abouyoub, Ambassador of the Kingdom of Morocco to Romania and Honorary President of the Jury, alongside Mr. Flavius Teodosiu Jr., Mr. Victor Martin, Mr. Eduard Uzunov, Mr. Tudor Furir, and Mr. Dan Vardie, Founder of CÆSAR and President of the Jury. Three distinguished newcomers also joined the panel this year: His Excellency Tigran H. Galstyan, Ambassador of the Republic of Armenia to Romania, Mr. Mihai Năsui, and Mr. Alin Mărginean.

CCTY 2025 is a European regional competition open exclusively to adult cigar enthusiasts (18+), who share a passion for the refined ritual of cigar smoking.

CÆSAR continues to champion the philosophy that enjoying a cigar is the hallmark of spirited individuals, bon viveurs, and those who appreciate a unique and memorable experience. Sharing a cigar in a lounge becomes a true celebration of community and pleasure.

As with previous editions, CÆSAR warmly invites cigar lovers to explore all 10 finalists, regarded as the finest among the hundreds of new brands and vitolas launched on the market.

CÆSAR distinguishes itself firmly from cigarette smoking, which, despite overly permissive regulations, carries significant risks for smokers regardless of the technology involved. By contrast, cigars are crafted entirely from 100% natural, carefully selected tobacco — recognized worldwide for their quality. The cigar experience is defined by its flavor and ritual, without inhaling the smoke into the lungs.

CÆSAR remains devoted to premium, handmade cigars, the only category accepted in the CCTY international competition.

Special thanks go to this year’s partners: Transilvania Hotels & Restaurants, El Unico, JPB, Smokars, Pernod Ricard, and Domeniul Bogdan.