Jason, I think they're basically on track. But I think the 'noise' in the ratings numbers is probably 3-4 points. So a cigar rated 89 may not really be any better than one rated 87 and may not even be as good. Also, it's hard to judge a cigar objectively. Things like construction, draw, etc. can be evaluated objectively, but as Floyd said tastes vary. The reviews are conducted blind, but many cigars you can look at and know what they are - Opuses have a distictive look and how many cigars look like a VSG Enchantment? However, I'm just not cynical enough to believe that they stack the ratings according to advertiser dollars. I've seen plenty of bad reviews for big advertisers and good reviews of cigars that aren't advertised at all (ISOMs for example).
As I said in the other thread, I pay attention more to the verbage of the review than the number. I look at the description to find cigars with characteristics that I like. However, if a cigar gets a very high review, I'll add it to my short list if I've never tried it. I'll get a couple and decide for myself if I like them.