All Backwoods Cigar Flavors, Smoked & Ranked

Over the years, I smoked countless Backwoods cigars; they’re my favorite, so I’ve tried them. Once the brand drops a new flavor, I’m usually one of the first few in the country to know when they release and to try them! As many know, Buy Pipe Tobacco is an official retailer of Backwoods, so as soon as a new flavor comes out, we’re all over it. In previous years, I recall waiting months for new flavor drops, sometimes even years; however, in the past few years, especially this year, the brand has given us many new limited edition flavors and product lines, some permanent, so I had a lot of smoking this year just to keep up with the most popular, best-selling cigar brand ever made! 

How I Smoked & Ranked All Backwoods Cigar Flavors

Now for a moment of transparency! First and foremost, I don’t smoke these cigars as they come; I know some people do, and more power to you, if that’s you, I’m not hating, I’m just saying, I use these cigars the same way you might use rolling papers. In other words, I smoke blunts, and the natural tobacco leaf Backwoods offers, including all the flavors, makes this brand a top pick for bud smokers worldwide, as well as here in the United States. They’re also a best-seller here in our smoke shop, consistently out-selling all other brands!  

They taste great, burn slowly, and are always fresh, which is in part thanks to the brand’s massive popularity. The truth is, lesser recognized brands can sit on the shelf for long periods of time, so by the time you get them, they’ve become stale and cruncy. This is generally never the case with Backwoods, as they sell pretty fast, including here at Buy Pipe Tobacco! As for those who smoke them straight up, much respect to you; unfortunately, I can’t tell you much about that experience, but I can tell you how the leaf tastes, which, if you like Backwoods, then you know, just like we know, the leaf is where it’s at, especially with this brand. 

Before jumping in, I’d like to say that my rankings are based on my experiences and preferences only, reflecting only my opinions. For me, they are facts; for you, well, we might agree on some flavors, but I’ll focus more on product discovery than opinion, which makes for good conversations and not hot debates. So, without further ado, here are all the best Backwoods flavors out this year. I’ve tried them all, and this is how I rank them. Please share your rankings in the comments below, and let’s see how they stack up against mine! 

Backwoods Permanent Flavors Ranked

To begin with, I’m going to start with the permanent flavors first, then move to Backwoods Select, followed by the brand’s limited edition flavors. As for the upcoming, here-to-stay flavors, all of them feature a Connecticut Broadleaf tobacco, which is my favorite, although I recognize there is better, especially in terms of quality, but I’m familiar with these leaves, and what I’m into. Regarding flavors, I like Original the best, so I’ll begin my rankings with that one and then work my way down the list. Honestly, I pretty much like all flavors, some certainly more than others, but nevertheless, they’re all pretty good. But let me know how they stack up for you!  

Backwoods Original

This is my all-time favorite Backwoods and the first flavor I ever tried. It’s all-natural, a little stronger than some of the others, and the one I grab more than anything else. I’d say about half the time, it’s Originals I’m reaching for. The leaf burns slowly, it’s consistent, and it always feels fresh. I appreciate the different flavors, but Original is the one that defines Backwoods to me. When people ask what the brand is really about, this is the flavor that sets the standard. It’s simple, straight to the point, and always a solid smoke.

Backwoods Sweet Aromatic

Sweet Aromatic has always been easy to put high on my list. The flavor has that sweet touch without being too much, and the smoke is smooth from start to finish. This was almost too close to call between these and Russian Cream, since I smoke both a lot, but Aromatic edges out just slightly. These are the kind of Backwoods you can grab any day and be happy with them, no matter the mood. They’re reliable, roll up nicely, and always seem fresh. I don’t think I’ve ever had a bad pack, which is why they hold second place.

Backwoods Russian Cream

Russian Cream is another one of my all-time favorites. Honestly, I could’ve put it in the same spot as Sweet Aromatic because I love them both that much. Russian Cream hits different with that smooth, creamy flavor that blends perfectly with the natural leaf. It smokes slow, it’s clean, and it keeps that flavor the whole way through. These are easy to keep in rotation because they never get old. Out of all the permanent Backwoods flavors, Russian Cream is the one I see people ask for the most in the shop, and it’s for good reason.

Backwoods Vanilla

Man, I waited years for these to hit the U.S. They were stuck overseas forever, and when they finally came here a couple of years back, I was all over them. At that time, Vanilla quickly became my second favorite flavor after Original. Sweet, smooth, and just a different kind of smoke compared to the others. The only problem is they started getting rare again, and now they’re extremely hard to find. That’s the only reason they dropped in my rankings, because flavor-wise, they’re top tier. Hey, Backwoods, stop acting like we don’t love these. Bring them back for real.

Backwoods Dark Stout

Dark Stout earns a top 5 spot for me. It’s got that bold, rich flavor that I’d compare to a dark beer or coffee. It’s heavier than most of the other flavors, but that’s precisely why I like it. It’s the type of cigar that feels like a full smoke, slow and steady down to the clip. For me, it was a tough call between Dark Stout and Dark Leaf because I like them both equally. I only put Stout first because it was the one I smoked more of at the time. Either way, it’s a solid smoke.

Backwoods Dark Leaf

Dark Leaf was the close runner-up to Dark Stout in my rankings, and honestly, I could flip the two on any given day. It’s got a strong, natural taste with no added sweetness, just pure leaf. It’s heavier than Original, earthier, and feels more raw. If you like cigars that lean toward that straight tobacco vibe, Dark Leaf is the one. For me, it’s one of those flavors I can always count on if I want something more rugged. It’s simple, reliable, and one of the best permanent flavors Backwoods makes, even if it didn’t edge out Stout this time.

Backwoods Black Russian

Black Russian was another tough one to place, because I like it just as much as Dark Leaf and Dark Stout. The only reason it came in lower is that it dropped more recently, so I haven’t smoked as many packs yet. Flavor-wise, it’s smooth and rich, with a darker taste than Russian Cream but still creamy enough to enjoy. They burn slowly and hold together well, just like you’d expect. If I had smoked these longer, they might rank higher, but timing put them here. Either way, Black Russian is a strong addition to the permanent line.

Backwoods Grape

I’ve got a lot to say about Backwoods Grape. This is hands down my favorite fruit flavor, no question. Just like Vanilla, I waited years for these to hit the U.S., since they were mostly overseas before. When they finally came here, I couldn’t get enough of them. They’ve got that grape candy vibe that mixes with the leaf perfectly. I smoke these whenever I can, but they’ve started getting harder to find, too, which is the only downside. Not as rare as Vanilla, but still not consistent enough. If they were always on shelves, these would rank even higher.

Backwoods Banana

When Banana dropped in the U.S. in 2022, it shook up the entire lineup. These got so much attention that Backwoods saw the reaction and started dropping more flavors more often, including Grape and Vanilla. So Banana really kicked off a new wave. The flavor itself is sweet, bold, and you can definitely taste the banana candy vibe. For me, it’s not something I smoke every day, but when I’m in the mood, they hit the spot. This release changed how Backwoods moves as a brand, and it’s one of the most important flavors in recent years.

Backwoods Cognac XO

Cognac XO came after Banana, and I think it was Backwoods trying to keep the momentum going with new ideas. The flavor is solid, and I bet it pairs perfectly with a real glass of cognac. On its own, it’s smooth with that liquor vibe, strong but not overpowering. I liked it, but it’s not one of my go-to flavors. It’s more of a flavor you smoke for the experience, kind of like pairing apple cider vinegar with apple juice; it just makes sense together. Cognac XO is good, but for me, it sits in the middle of the lineup.

Backwoods Honey

I’ve tried for years to really get into Honey, but it just never hit for me the way I wanted it to. They’re not bad, don’t get me wrong, but I think they could’ve been sweeter, maybe stickier, with a more real honey taste. Every time I smoke them, they’re fresh and burn the way Backwoods should, but the flavor has always felt a little flat compared to others. If Backwoods ever tweaked the honey formula, I’d be all over them, but as it stands, Honey just stays in the same spot in my rankings year after year.

Backwoods Honey Bourbon

Honey Bourbon has been another flavor I tried to like more, but the honey just doesn’t show up the way it should. The bourbon part is legit, and honestly, it pairs well with drinking bourbon itself, especially something like Maker’s Mark. I might actually need to sit down one night and smoke one with a glass, because I think that would make the experience hit harder. On its own, though, it’s missing that sweetness. The flavor isn’t bad, it’s just not one I go to often. More of a mood flavor, not something I’d grab on the regular.

Backwoods Honey Berry

Honey Berry ends up last for me, and the reason is simple: the flavors don’t really click together. The honey is weak, the berry is sharp, and instead of blending, they kind of collide. I wouldn’t call them bad, but compared to everything else, they’re at the bottom. If you see me smoking one, it’s probably because someone rolled it and passed it over, not because I bought it. I’ll still smoke it without complaining, but it’s not a flavor I’d ever put above the rest. Out of all the permanent flavors, this is the one I reach for the least. 

Backwoods Select Flavors Ranked

Next up, we have all five Backwoods Select flavors, all of which I like, especially Connecticut Special, but since I’m ranking them, only one can hold the top spot. As for these products, they’re part of a newer Backwoods Select series, launched in 2024 as a premium branch of the brand. The line highlights wrapper leaves from different regions, including Connecticut, Pennsylvania, Guatemala, Honduras, and the Philippines. 

These are blended with Cuban-seed filler grown in the Caribbean basin, which keeps the focus on the tobacco flavor instead of added infusions. Packaged in resealable pouches and multi-pack boxes, which is what you’ll find here at Buy Pipe Tobacco, the series is intended to showcase higher-quality leaves while maintaining the familiar Backwoods style we all know and appreciate. Let me know in the comments if you’ve tried them yet, and if so, what do you think about them… 

Backwoods Select Connecticut Special

Connecticut Special is the one I put at the top of the Select line. The flavor is smooth, mild, and fresh, the kind of cigar you can smoke anytime without it feeling heavy. It has that clean taste that’s easygoing but still feels like Backwoods. It’s familiar but polished in a way the regular line isn’t. It rolls up nicely, burns steadily, and the taste doesn’t drop off halfway through. Out of all the Select flavors, this is the one I reach for first because it just feels right, no matter the situation.

Backwoods Select Pennsylvania Primo

Pennsylvania Primo is bolder than Connecticut. The flavor leans darker, heavier, and a little more earthy. It’s not overwhelming, but it definitely gives you a stronger smoke. This is the kind of cigar I’d grab when I want something that feels fuller and slower, the kind you sit with for a while. Primo has a steady burn and a flavor that hangs with you the whole time. It’s a good pick for people who like more power behind their cigars but still want that Backwoods roll and rustic vibe.

Backwoods Select Guatemala Satin

Guatemala Satin is smooth with just a touch of sweetness. It doesn’t hit as strongly as Primo, but it isn’t flat either. The smoke is mellow, light, and easy to enjoy. Out of the Select series, this one feels like the middle option, not bold, not too mild, just steady. Satin is the kind of cigar you light up when you want something laid back, something you don’t have to think about but still want good flavor. It’s reliable, and it does what it should from start to finish.

Backwoods Select Honduras 1883

Honduras comes in with more of a bite than the others. There’s a little spice in the flavor that makes it different, not harsh, just noticeable. It smokes rich and steady with that little kick that sets it apart from the smoother Selects. This isn’t one I grab every time, but when I do, I like the change-up. Honduras is for smokers who want more edge, something with a sharper taste that still feels like a Backwoods but with a twist.

Backwoods Select Philippines Prestige

Philippines Prestige is the smoothest out of the Select series. The flavor is mild, creamy, and easy to smoke all the way through. Compared to the others, it feels lighter and more relaxed. Prestige is the simple option in this lineup, the kind of cigar you can pick up anytime without needing to be in a certain mood. It’s not trying to be bold or heavy, it’s just an easy, fresh smoke. Sometimes that’s exactly what you want, and that’s why Prestige earns its spot in the Select line.

Backwoods Limited Edition & Regional Flavors Ranked

Next up, we have the limited edition and regional Backwoods releases, created to highlight short-term flavors tied to themes or specific cities. Sweet Summertime Chicago is my favorite from this line, a seasonal flavor made in smaller batches. Purple Pack Houston follows the same concept, designed as a city-focused release that has become popular among collectors. 

The Tical Edition is another example, produced in partnership with Method Man and noted for its exclusivity, which, of course, you can find here at Buy Pipe Tobacco while supplies last. 

These cigars retain the rustic Backwoods appearance and small cigarillo format but differ from the main line because production is restricted. Their limited runs and regional branding make them more challenging to find and add a layer of rarity compared with the standard flavors. I love when Backwoods drops new limited edition flavors, I’m usually the first to get my hands on them before most people know about them, so I’ve tried everyone listed below, including one that’s been around for so long now that they might as well make it a permanent flavor; I’m sure you’ll spot it right away before you read about it. 

Backwoods Sweet Summertime Chicago

Sweet Summertime Chicago is my favorite of the limited editions. It’s smooth, sweet, and perfect for the season it was made for. The flavor has that laid-back summertime vibe, light but still rich enough to keep you coming back. Since it’s made in smaller batches, the freshness is always on point, and it burns the way a Backwoods should. These don’t stay on shelves long, and for good reason, because they’re one of the most enjoyable limited runs the brand has dropped. If Backwoods made this one permanent, I wouldn’t complain. It’s easily top of the line for me.

Backwoods Purple Pack Houston

Purple Pack Houston is one of those flavors that got people excited as soon as it dropped. It’s tied to the city, and that makes it more collectible, but the flavor itself holds up. It’s sweet, bold, and rolls up smooth every time. There’s something about smoking a limited run tied to a place like Houston that makes it feel different, almost like you’re part of that scene. These became popular quickly, and I can see why. They’re fresh, flavorful, and the packaging adds to the appeal. These are definitely one of the better regional releases Backwoods has put out.

Backwoods Southern Tea Atlanta

Southern Tea Atlanta brings something new to the table with a flavor that feels refreshing but is still grounded in that rustic Backwoods style. It has a light sweetness with that tea vibe that makes it easy to smoke and perfect for warmer weather. The burn is steady, and it stays tasty all the way down to the clip. Out of the regional flavors, this one really matches its theme because it actually tastes like something you’d want to drink in the South. Southern Tea is a clever release, and it deserves the attention it gets from collectors and casual smokers alike.

Backwoods Tical Edition

The Tical Edition is special because it’s tied to Method Man, and that makes it one of the most hyped limited runs in recent memory. The flavor is smooth with a deeper edge to it, but the real appeal is its exclusivity. These feel like a collector’s item as much as something to smoke. Every pack I’ve had was fresh, rolled clean, and smoked slow, which is what you want from Backwoods. It’s not just about the collab, though, because the flavor holds its own. Tical Edition is one of those drops you grab as soon as you see it.

Backwoods Smoked Caramel

Smoked Caramel is one of the more unique flavors Backwoods has dropped. It’s sweet but with a rich, smoky edge that keeps it from being candy-like. The caramel taste blends into the natural leaf in a way that makes sense, and the burn is slow and consistent. This isn’t an everyday flavor for me, but when I’m in the mood for something different, Smoked Caramel hits just right. It’s a limited edition that feels creative without being over the top, and it’s one of those flavors I’d like to see come around more often.

Backwoods Wild Rum

Wild Rum is, without a doubt, the longest-running limited edition Backwoods flavor. It’s been around for so many years that it honestly feels more permanent than half the real permanent lineup. The taste is smooth with that rum sweetness that matches perfectly with the natural leaf, bold but not too strong, and it smokes clean from start to finish. At this point, it really belongs on the permanent list, because it’s been here longer than some actual permanent flavors. So what’s it gonna be, Backwoods? Either way, Wild Rum has earned its place as one of the all-time favorites.

Backwoods Chocolate

I was really excited when Chocolate came out. The idea made sense, and on paper, it felt like a flavor that could be huge. After smoking them, though, I’d compare it to Honey, not in taste but in authenticity. The flavor isn’t bad, but it feels a little off, almost flat, like it’s missing something. Chocolate has a smooth, sweet vibe, and it burns slow like it should, but it needs a touch of magic to make it great. They’re still enjoyable, and I think if Backwoods gets this one right, it could absolutely earn a permanent spot like Wild Rum.

Where to Buy All Backwoods Cigar Flavors Online

Here at Buy Pipe Tobacco, we carry all Backwoods cigar flavors currently available, including permanent flavors, Select, and limited edition releases. Each box includes multiple foil-sealed pouches with more value per order than single purchases at local convenience stores, gas stations, and smoke shops. All inventory is stored and shipped from our state-of-the-art warehouse in Newport, Kentucky, which is under 24/7 controlled temperature and humidity conditions to maintain freshness. Orders ship to most locations in the United States, so you don’t have to rely on what your local shop happens to have; we’ve got you covered.