Expert opinion and brand reputation: an analysis from a French Cuban cigars guidebook

The role of expert opinion and its ability to reflect true quality are discussed. If the expert is theoretically expected to make objective decisions, the empirical evidence does not enable clear answers to be established. Using data from the 32 Cuban brands commercialized in France in the years 2000 to 2003, we estimate experts’ rating hedonic equations. Our results show that the quality of the cigar, measured with a note coded on a scale of 1 to 5, is independent of its price but is linked to its physical attributes. Moreover, these ‘objective’ characteristics play an increasing role over time. Finally, it appears that some brands are favourably considered.