Cohiba (Cuban) — Heritage & History

Cohiba was born in 1966 as a private smoke for Fidel Castro, created by the El Laguito factory in Havana—a facility staffed almost entirely by women, a rarity in the industry. The brand remained a state secret until 1982, when it was released commercially to the world. Its origin lies in a 1966 blending session between Castro's bodyguard and a local torcedor, which produced a cigar so distinctive it was reserved for the leader and his guests. The name itself derives from the Taíno word for tobacco, a nod to the island's pre-Columbian heritage. What sets Cohiba apart from every other Cuban marca is its triple-fermentation process: the pilones (tobacco piles) are fermented three times, a technique that extracts deeper impurities and yields a uniquely refined smoke. The Siglo VI, a Gran Corona, exemplifies this—its layered profile of cedar and dark cocoa is a direct result of that extra fermentation. By 1989, the Siglo line was added to commemorate the 500th anniversary of the Americas' discovery, cementing Cohiba's status as Cuba's flagship.

Blending Philosophy

Cohiba's blending approach is defined by a triple-fermentation process unique to the brand. While most Cuban cigars ferment their pilones twice, Cohiba's leaves undergo a third, slower fermentation that breaks down ammonia and sharpness, allowing the tobacco's natural sweetness to surface. The brand sources exclusively from the Vuelta Abajo region in Pinar del Río, using a specific selection of wrapper leaves: the shade-grown Tapado for the Siglo line, which imparts a silky, aromatic character. The filler is a precise layering of Volado, Seco, and Ligero—each leaf aged for a minimum of two years, with the Ligero top-dressed to add a final kick. This meticulous construction is evident in the Siglo II, a Corona that burns evenly and draws effortlessly, revealing a balance that less rigorous processes cannot achieve. Cohiba's aging standards are equally strict: finished cigars rest for at least six months before release, a practice that harmonizes the blend.

Flavor Profile

Across the Cohiba range, smokers consistently encounter a signature profile of cedar, white pepper, and a subtle dried fruit sweetness—often compared to raisins or figs. The Siglo II opens with a gentle wave of leather and cream, transitioning to a mid-section of toasted nuts and a faint citrus zest, finishing with a soft white pepper tingle. The Siglo VI, by contrast, is a more assertive smoke: it begins with a bold burst of dark cocoa and espresso, then evolves into layers of baking spice and leather, with a lingering pepper on the retrohale. Strength varies from Medium in the Siglo II to Medium-Full in the Siglo VI, but both share a hallmark of balance—no single note dominates. The triple-fermentation imparts a clean, almost mineral finish that distinguishes Cohiba from other Cubans, which often carry a heavier earthiness. As the range progresses in size, the flavor intensifies, but the core cedar-and-cocoa spine remains constant.

Best for Beginners

For a newcomer to Cohiba, the Siglo II is the ideal entry point. At Medium strength, it won't overwhelm, and its price—$28–$38 per cigar—is a manageable introduction to the brand. Expect a smooth start of cedar and cream, with a gentle white pepper finish. It smokes for about 45 minutes, offering a concise yet complete experience of Cohiba's signature refinement without the intensity of the larger vitolas.

Cohiba (Cuban) Cigar Lineup

Explore 2 Cohiba (Cuban) cigars in the AshMap encyclopedia:

  • Cohiba Siglo Ii — Corona, Medium · $28–$38 per cigar (LCDH or authorized retailer)
  • Cohiba Siglo Vi — Gran Corona, Medium-Full · $45–$65 per cigar (LCDH or authorized retailer; significantly higher on secondary/grey market)

Frequently Asked Questions

Where are Cohiba (Cuban) cigars made?

Cohiba (Cuban) cigars are made at the El Laguito factory in Havana, Cuba. This factory, established in the 1960s, is the exclusive production site for the brand, and it remains a state-run facility. All tobacco is sourced from the Vuelta Abajo region in Pinar del Río.

What is Cohiba (Cuban) known for?

Cohiba is known for being Cuba's most prestigious brand, originally created as a private cigar for Fidel Castro in 1966. It is the only Cuban marca to use a triple-fermentation process, which distinguishes its flavor. The Siglo VI is often cited as a benchmark for Cuban cigars, and the brand's release to the public in 1982 marked a turning point in the global cigar market.

Are Cohiba (Cuban) cigars strong?

Cohiba (Cuban) cigars range from Medium to Medium-Full in strength. The Siglo II is Medium, making it approachable, while the Siglo VI is Medium-Full, offering a more robust experience. They are not considered full-strength cigars, but the Ligero top-dressing in the blend provides a noticeable kick.

What is the best Cohiba (Cuban) cigar for beginners?

The Cohiba Siglo II is the best choice for beginners. Its Medium strength and shorter smoking time (about 45 minutes) make it less demanding than larger vitolas. The flavor profile is smooth—cedar, cream, and a hint of white pepper—without the intensity of the Siglo VI, allowing a newcomer to appreciate Cohiba's refinement without being overwhelmed.

How much do Cohiba (Cuban) cigars cost?

Cohiba (Cuban) cigars are priced at a premium. The Siglo II costs $28–$38 per cigar at authorized retailers like LCDH (La Casa del Habano). The Siglo VI ranges from $45–$65 per cigar at authorized outlets, though secondary and grey market prices can be significantly higher.

What wrapper does Cohiba (Cuban) use?

Cohiba (Cuban) cigars use a wrapper from the Vuelta Abajo region in Pinar del Río. Specifically, the Siglo line employs a shade-grown Tapado wrapper, which is grown under gauze to protect it from direct sunlight. The filler combines Cuban Volado and Seco leaves, and the blend is top-dressed with Ligero—all sourced from the same Vuelta Abajo region.

Are Cohiba (Cuban) cigars Cuban?

Yes, Cohiba (Cuban) cigars are authentically Cuban. They are produced at the El Laguito factory in Havana, Cuba, using tobacco exclusively from the Vuelta Abajo region. This is distinct from the non-Cuban Cohiba brand sold in the United States, which is made in the Dominican Republic and is not affiliated with the Cuban original.

Where can I buy Cohiba (Cuban) cigars?

Cohiba (Cuban) cigars are best purchased from authorized retailers, such as La Casa del Habano (LCDH) stores, which are government-licensed and guarantee authenticity. They are also available at duty-free shops in Cuban airports and at select international tobacconists. Avoid grey market sources, as counterfeits are common and prices are inflated.