The 100-point room
Scoring Methodology
Repeatable enough to compare; honest enough to admit that taste remains human.
30Construction & burn
Draw, combustion, ash and physical integrity.
30Flavor development
Clarity, evolution and coherence across thirds.
25Balance & finish
Integration, texture and the quality of the finish.
15Character
Distinctiveness and a reason to return.
Panel protocol
- Cigars rest under a recorded storage range before review.
- Panelists record blind identifiers and score components before discussion.
- Construction faults trigger a documented replacement rule.
- The published note identifies release or batch context when available.
- Samples, hospitality and commercial relationships do not change the score.
Score bands
95–100: extraordinary · 90–94: outstanding · 85–89: very good · 80–84: good with reservations · below 80: not recommended in the reviewed condition.
TPCC ratings are independent. They are not copied, licensed or adjusted from another publication.