I guess it depends on what you are looking for. A list of "holy grail, cost no object" smokes, or smokes that could actually be found and afforded (barely, in some cases).
Let's say it's smokes that are reasonably easy to find, reasonably easy to afford. Lots of my choices have been mentioned. These are sticks I really like, YMMV....
The guys at Padron make world class smokes. You really need to try a Padron Millenium, '26 #9, '64 Exclusivo, 40th, 80th, and FR 45th. These are very well aged by the Padron family so they are good to go right out of the box. While you're at it, try a 3000 just to say you've smoked representatives of most of the entire Padron range.
Fuente OpusX is a world unto itself. I'd find a couple with at least a couple years on them I like the Perfecxion X and the Double Corona, but there are lots of others. I'd also find some Anejo's with some down time. I prefer 48's and 49's, lots of guys really go for the Shark (77). I'd say at the end of the day I prefer Anejo's to the OpusX line in general, but they are both worth investigating. A couple years (or more) of humi time does wonders for these smokes.
Jonathan Drew has really picked up the game in the last couple years. Try a Liga Privada #9 (I like the Toro or the Robusto), a T52 (same), and an Undercrown (same). I didn't care for the Nica Rustica nearly as much but lots of guys really love 'em.
Where do you start with Pepin smokes....there are a gazillion of them (including Tatuajie). I'd get some of the original 'brown label' Unico series. I'm very partial to the Regio, the Especiale, and the Taino. If you can find some TAA's from 2011 or 2012 they are really stellar. Believe it or not, the little Petite Cazadore Reserva is a hell of a small smoke. It's still the standard that I judge small smokes by.
I haven't mentioned any cigars from the island south of Miami because I won't claim to have any significant knowledge on what's up with the different ranges. I can tell you I really like Bolivar Royal Corona's, PSD#4's, and Upmann MAG46's. Friends of mine rave about the Monte #2. I'm sure someone with more knowledge can fill in the blanks there.
Now, truth be told, you may not dig every cigar mentioned, but these are the ones that come to mind as significant stops in my cigar journey. I'm sure in an hour I'll think of a dozen more....
Enjoy - B.B.S.