One they don't sell much anymore was my go to brand. The "Diablo" picante size cigar. Nice looking, medium bodied, Sumatrasn wrapped smoke. Economical, good construction, and consistent. Never had a bad one yet. No plugged sticks, no crazy burns, no wrappers falling apart, etc.

As for nicer smokes, I like the Rocky Patel Vintage 1990 followed by the Vintage 92.

As for expensive domestic smokes, I like the Montecristo White label and the Padron Anniversario. I've only smoked a couple of each.

I had a simply awesome RYJ from you know where once, but that's a rare treat.