This is a hard one, as they always are. The cue of the year will be interesting. The GTB is excellent, as are the Black Boars, always great workmanship. The Hercek Gambler is erudite.
To me, cue of the year resonates design and theme. Design tends to be the easier part, as the more inlays, the better, if they are very well done. But I actually prefer the theme, and the theme that speaks to me is the past. For those a bit younger, the past includes largely, Herman, Frank, Gene, George, and Gus.
The one that takes both history and design, so far, is the Gus 2000. There is plenty of room, but this is the one that combines design and history. It's obviously a crowded field. As it should be.
All the best,
WW
