Full-bodied cigars — powerful, intense and built for experienced smokers. Reserve these for the end of the evening with a robust drink.

These are blends built around potent, ligero-rich tobaccos: expect deep, concentrated flavours of dark earth, espresso, leather and pepper, with a strength that rewards a slow pace and a full stomach. They are cigars for the seasoned palate — smoked in a hurry they punish, smoked patiently they deliver some of the most memorable experiences in the humidor.

Cuba's great heavyweights live here. The famously muscular Bolívar marques, the earthy, peppery classics from Partagás and the richer Cohiba vitolas all build in intensity as they burn, developing layer after layer of flavour towards the final third.

Not sure where to start? Read our guide to the best full-bodied cigars, or work your way up through our medium-to-full cigars before taking on the strongest blends.