Ok, here goes...

Maker reputation combined with MY experience of said maker. e.g. I havent found a Saka cigar I didn't like.

My fellow Bums' recommendations- I'd take a shot on you guys & gals before a magazine article any day.

Sexy/Bad-Ass label- yep, sometimes the shiny can pull me in.

General appearance? Dark, Oily, Maduro with hints of cocoa and espresso. And I say that even though I love almost all types.