Such a valuable exercise, Oliver - encouraging us to look deeply at our best (and worst) articles to learn what works or doesn't, with fresh eyes. As you say, it's difficult to say what criteria identify the "best" so here are mine:

My Favourite: What Makes You Smile

https://sonyasherman.medium.com/what-makes-you-smile-dc0c42ef5a53

Most Claps: How To Haiku

https://sonyasherman.medium.com/how-to-haiku-2137ca6a43f9

Most Reads: What Are Shoe Stories

https://sonyasherman.medium.com/what-are-shoe-stories-e90a70b53a3f