I think about this question all the time. Ultimately, with no answer in sight, I quote my boy Nietzsche a couple times and call it good:

There are no facts, only interpretations.

Yep, that old horse. Still dead...? Dead as shit dead? Give it a kick just in case.

It's already difficult to remember my opinions, without also remembering my reasons for them!

You yourself, both physically and mentally, are a major factor in any given cigar experience.Are you hydrated? Are you drunk? What have you eaten today, are you in a good/bad mood etc etc. This one is huge, at least for me.

For example, I thoroughly enjoyed an Illusione Epernay last night. Great cigar from start to finish. However, I wasn't really a fan of the cigar when I tried it two months ago. I was dealing with allergy/sinus issues at the time and likely wouldn't have enjoyed anything. Thankfully /u/nonfiction_1968 stood behind the stick, which was more than enough to convince another shot. Keep this in mind as you form opinions/develop your palate. Stay malleable. The snake which does not shed it's skin dies

Think for yourself (insanity in groups or something)

Confirmation bias is omni present. This means it plays a role in how you experience/taste a cigar. Have any of you ever tried a 'Cream Ale' at your local bar/pub/micro-brewery? I bet it was creamy and dreamy and NOPE. Call that beer any other name than 'cream' and watch no one comment on how creamy it tastes. I've actually tried this at a bar and a brewery (that I remember, prolly done it more cause I'm annoying). No one describes the beer as creamy unless you say the word cream before/while they drink it. Super scientific. No victor believes in chance

This community affords us access to a wide array of valuable information and opinions. Never take this information for granted, respect other opinions, but don't forget to develop some of your own!