As someone who missed the cigar boom in the 90's, I can only go on what I've experienced in the last year and a half. In that time, I really only smoke cheap stuff since it's what I can afford, and I try new smokes as often as possible.
That aside, I'm always confused as to what I should expect a "good" cigar to be.
I've smoked sticks that are highly regarded and hated them.
I've read positive reviews about the construction of a cigar, but in the detail, several relights are mentioned.
I've read negative reviews that say, "yuck, it tasted like dirt."
I've read positive reviews that mention an "earthy" flavor.
I've had CAO's that I really enjoyed like the La Traviata.
I've had a Cohiba that I found putrid.
And I know that tastes evolve and change, and that I could wake up tomorrow desiring a very different flavor profile, but for now, I'm still enjoying the journey.
As for horrible quality being pervasive, I really don't know if that's true since I'm a sampling size of one person. But I guarantee that the huge cigar companies are doing lots of market research and want repeat customers. Hell, the OSA Sol wouldn't have been released to the public if everyone in their test groups hated it as much as you guys do. Granted, you are dealing with a fairly delicate process/product, with lots of ways that things can go wrong, before the tobacco gets to the rollers and long afterward.
Waits for outrage....
