I occasionally enjoy fine cigars, but I do not know much about brands. My father is a regular smoker and likes cuban cigars. I friend of mine is traveling to Cuba and I would like him to get me the best Coronas, Short Coronas or Corona Gorda (the three are my dad's favorites sizes), as a Xmas gift for my dad. I obviously can not ask him, so I ask for your help and recommendation about wiich cuban brands have the best cigars in this sizes. I would be eternally greatful.

Regards,
Cesar Montoya

First off the Caveat must be, don't ever buy from someone on the street or out of the factories back door. Go right to the factory and buy there. Get a real receipt, which is often needed to exit the country with cigars (depending on amount).

In my opinion the Best Short Corona is absolutely the Hoyo De Monterrey Short Corona. This size cigar is often referred to as a Marevas, normally a 5 by 42 ring. Following it in a close second place is the Bolivar Petit Corona. And last, but not least is the Punch Royal Selection #12. These would be my choices for the Small Corona Catagory.

Now the best Corona is a difficult decision. This cigar is 5 1/2 by 42 ring gauge, often confused with the Cosacos which is 5 3/8 by 42, but not the same. After some soul searching and some sampling from the humidor, I have come to a decision. The best Cuban Corona, when taking into account cost, consistency and availability of legitimate cigars, I would recommend the Romeo y Julieta #1 Deluxe. Followed up by the ever popular Montecristo #3. And taking up the rear is one of the harder to find Cuban cigars, the Diplomaticos #3, a real enjoyment. And if not for the lack of availablity, the Diplomaticos would be my number one choice for best Cuban Corona.

Last, but not least, the Corona Gorda. This size happens to be one of my most favorites. This size is often referred to as a "Toro." It is 5 5/8 by 46 ring gauge. I must admit that this is trying my soul. As there are too many really good choices for the best Corona Gorda. Since this created so much confusion in my mind, I have decided to list the top three in alphabetical order and any one of them would be a spectacular gifted smoke.

Here goes; Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure #1, Punch Black Prince and the Romeo y Julieta Celestiales Finos. Boy, just saying those three names together gets my mouth watering and my thumb and index finger inching for a Zino Guillotine cutter.

If these aren't available, try the Punch Punch, the Cohiba Siglo lV and the Punch Royal Selection #11.

Cesar, If you get your father some or all of these recommended cigars you will obviously be nominated for the Worlds Best Son '97! He will enjoy any combination of these smokes. But remember to buy from the State stores and not from a back door or someones "Cousin." Remember a friendly Latin saying "Caviat Emptor," meaning Buyer Beware.

Hope this helps you.
Adam Goldstone