Which sounds better?

[J-Brew]

I am thinking of picking up a sampler pack from absolutecigars.com. Of course up until very recently I had not smoked any of the Cuban's listed below and I just recently bought my first box of Partagas Serie D No.4. I figured because of the stellar advice I received the last time I posed a question, I would try again to rely on the experts opinions. These are the options that I have narrowed down to currently, I will remind you that I prefer stronger/bold flavors, but I am always willing to try something new that comes recommended from experienced smokers.

1. Partagas 8-9-8 (this set 219.95)
Juan Lopez Seleccion No. 2
Bolivar Belicoso Finos
Cuaba Distinquidos
Bolivar Royal Coronas

OR

2. Montecristo No.4 (this set 239.95)
Partagas Serie D No.4
Montecristo No.2
Bolivar Royal Coronas
Cohiba Robustos

OR finally

3. Montecristo Edmundo (this set also 239.95)
Romeo y Julieta Short Churchill
Ramon Allones Specially Selected
Bolivar Belicoso Finos
H. Upmann Magnum 46

Thanks in advance, J-Brew

[bnelly]

All have their pros and cons - also very difficult to comment without knowing any box codes. Some of those sticks are highly variable depending on the year IMHO. However, I'd go for choice 3

[Seems quite expensive though - couldn't you find others who are keen to try some of those & split some boxes ?]

[spacemonkey_no9]

That looks to be quite expensive for what you're getting. I'm sure someone can recommend an online retailer that will allow you to make up a sampler of your own choosing and you can base it around flavour preferences. All of those options seem to have a mixture of strengths/characteristics.

Bnelly is right about box codes, might be better to buy two or three boxes and split/share them, you can be specific about the cigars that way.

[bigbarneyhotdog]

i agree. there's much better ways of trying different smokes. i prefer the sound of option no.1 though

[pirald]

I would personally buy seperate cigars instead of picking up bundles. Gives you more flexibility, and avoids you having to smoke brands you may not personally like.