Hey there SLC,
My preference has always been the family brands, have not been real impressed with JR alternates, but to each his own! I have heard a lot of complaints about Thompson's but do not have personal experience. Do you go to Jeannies or Havanna Brothers in SLC? I've done some consulting at the VA Hospital in SLC and thought very highly of both shops, both seemed to have a nice selection and knowledgeable tobacconists.