, I am not a fan of a cigar that takes numerous hours to smoke. A good 30-60 minute cigar burn is good for me. Of course, depending on the burntime, the tobacco can produce a burnt flavor/taste to the smoke.
Oh yeah, samplers are your friend. One of the best ways to sample a variety of manufacturers, wrappers, types, tobaccos, etc. Plus, you can always find free shipping links for Cigars International.
As far as the Cuban trade embargo, there are plenty of other options out there. The mentality of "cuban cigars are the best" is hype. Try out a good oliva, good rocky patel, torano, etc, and you will keep to those.
