What in the world do all of these high-octane megastars have in common? No, they're not all starring in Mission: Testosterone, this summer's most muscled blockbuster. But, they do share a unique bond. In fact, they share the same connection with such historically notable folks as Fidel Castro, W.C. Fields, and even King Edward VII.



How could kings, comedians, and revolutionary leaders have anything in common with the Terminator, Rambo, and Braveheart?

It's simple: They all love a good cigar! No, actually, they all love a great cigar!

And, when it comes to great cigars, arguably there are none better today than those coming from rich soils and humid mountain hillsides of Nicaragua. Long having taken a backseat to the Cuban cigar-making dynasty, Nicaragua is making its mark on the international scene with the finest cigars found anywhere on the planet.

Just like its booming real estate market that has rebounded after natural disasters and political unrest to become one of the best places in the world to invest, the Nicaraguan cigar industry is benefiting and experiencing a renaissance as well. From the center of it cigar revolution in Esteli to Condega and all the way out to the Jalapa Valley, Nicaragua is home to the world's best cigar makers, tobacco, and established and up-and-coming brands.

With so many great cigars to choose from, the problem for the cigar aficionado and the newbie alike becomes not ?How can I find a good Nicaraguan cigar,? but where should I even start? To help you make your way through the jungle landscape of choice, let's take a look at five all-time favorites.

5. Plasencia Organica Nesticos

Profile: small cigar, mild, but rich taste

Big things come in little packages! The world's first 100% Certified Organic cigar, the Plasencia Organica Nesticos are pure handmade tobacco magic. These little cigars take advantage of Plansencia's renowned three-year-aged, organically-grown Nicaraguan tobaccos and serve it up in a smoke-able size that allows you to enjoy big cigar flavor even when you don't have a lot of time.

4. Joya de Nicaragua Antano 1970, Robusto Grande.

Profile: strong, robust, earthy, woody, big, heavy-bodied?you get the idea, this cigar ain't messing around!

This hefty all-Nicaraguan tobacco cigar was crafted to appeal to an American clientele who could no longer puff their favorite Havanas after the Cuban revolution. Let's just call it like it is: The Robusto Grande is a big daddy of a cigar ? both in size and flavor. There's no getting around the fact that it packs a seriously rich blow with that characteristic Nicaraguan metallic twang. If you like your cigars to knock you out with a power-packed punch, this is your choice.

3. Felipe II Fat Boy

Profile: medium-bodied, earthy, spicy coffee bean aromas, roasted butter finish

Rated 90 by Cigar Aficionado, this ridiculously rich tasting cigar by Felipe Gregorio is definitely round and robust, but has a seamlessly smooth quality that makes it a definite contender. The Fat Boy's small, but stocky size (3.5 x 55) gives it a definite ?Don't Mess with Me? attitude. When you're feeling like a fine fatty at a reasonable rate, find yourself a Felipe II and get ready for a taste explosion.

2. Padr'n 1964 Anniversary Series

Profile: medium to full-bodied, long finish, perfectly balanced.

If you want to feel like a celebrity, then you'll want to take a pull on any cigar from the Padr'n 1964 Anniversary Series. Made to celebrate their 30th anniversary, this line is crafted from only their best tobaccos and is often quite difficult to find. However, when you do get your hands on one, you'll experience a masterful cigar from first spark to final ash tap. Despite the price, this is a must-have in your collection.

1. Perdomo Edici'n de Silvio

Profile: robust, delicate tones, perfection

This exquisite cigar is considered by many to be one of the best in the world bar none. With a secret blend of the finest tobaccos, this is the holy grail of cigars. And, although it is by far the most exclusive (read: expensive) cigar on my list, it's not to be missed. So, when you start making huge profits with your Nicaraguan real estate investments, you can experience a little decadence with a Perdomo Edicion de Silvio.

As you can quickly see, the Nicaraguan cigar revolution is in full swing ? a rich variety of flavors that is unmatched anywhere in the world. With its fascinating history, the Nicaraguan cigar story is one that can't be missed. When you light up any of the above cigars, you'll know that you've found a new favorite in Nicaragua.