AshMap
Overview
The Cohiba Siglo V stands as one of the most refined expressions of the Havana cigar-making tradition, a vitola that embodies the philosophy of El Laguito—the legendary factory in Havana established in 1966 exclusively for Cohiba production. Introduced as part of the Siglo (Century) line in 1992, commemorating the 500th anniversary of Columbus's arrival in the Americas, the Siglo V is a Corona Gorda measuring 6.7 inches with a 43-ring gauge. Its lineage is immediately apparent: the wrapper is a Cuban Volado leaf from Vuelta Abajo, Pinar del Río, displaying a Colorado hue—a medium-dark caramel to reddish-brown with a silky sheen and subtle tooth. The binder and filler hail from the same revered region, with the filler incorporating a blend of Volado, Seco, and Ligero leaves, the latter subjected to a distinctive third fermentation exclusive to Cohiba. This extra aging step—an innovation unique among Habanos S.A. brands—imparts a depth and smoothness that sets Cohiba apart from all others. The Siglo V is hand-rolled by top-grade rollers and presented in lacquered boxes of 25, a traditional round parejo format that invites slow, deliberate smoking. Priced between $35 and $55 per cigar depending on market and retailer, it occupies the prestige tier of the Cohiba portfolio, appealing to those who understand that true luxury lies in nuance rather than brute force. Its medium strength (3/5) belies a complexity that unfolds over 90 to 100 minutes, rewarding patience with each successive third. This is not a cigar for the hurried or the distracted; it is a meditation on what the Cuban tobacco industry can achieve when tradition, terroir, and craftsmanship converge. The Siglo V is often debated alongside the Cohiba Robusto, but the two are distinct: the Siglo V favors elegance and intellectual engagement over the Robusto’s more direct power. For the aficionado who values a cool, protracted smoke with layered transitions, the Siglo V is arguably the finest everyday-premium cigar the Havana system consistently produces. Its standing in the premium cigar world is nearly unassailable, a benchmark against which other long smokes are measured, and a testament to the notion that the best things in life require—and reward—time.
Cigar Specifications
| Wrapper | Cuban Volado — Vuelta Abajo, Pinar del Río, Cuba — Colorado |
|---|---|
| Binder | Cuban Seco — Vuelta Abajo, Pinar del Río |
| Filler | Blend of Vuelta Abajo Volado, Seco, and Ligero leaves; includes fermented third-paso tobacco exclusive to Cohiba — a dou |
| Country of Origin | Cuba — El Laguito factory, Havana |
| Vitola / Shape | Corona Gorda (Siglo V) |
| Size | 6.7 x 43 |
| Strength | Medium |
| Price | $35–$55 per cigar depending on retailer and market (MSRP varies significantly by country due to import duties and gray m |
| Tier | Prestige |
| Aging | Cohiba's tobaccos undergo a distinctive third fermentation unique among Habanos S.A. brands; finished cigars benefit mar |
Tasting Notes & Flavor Progression
First Third
The cold draw offers sweet hay, mild citrus peel, and a whisper of white pepper. Ignition brings immediate creamy cedar and a refined earthiness — classic Havana terroir — layered over toasted almonds and mild floral notes. Strength is restrained and approachable, inviting rather than assertive.
Second Third
Complexity escalates considerably: rich leather emerges alongside roasted coffee bean, dark honey, and a subtle cocoa note on the retrohale. The double-fermented Ligero asserts itself with a warm spice that coats the palate without aggression — the hallmark of El Laguito craftsmanship at its best.
Final Third
The final third consolidates into a sumptuous, lingering finish of aged cedar, dark dried fruit (raisin, fig), espresso, and a persistent creaminess. Strength ticks upward slightly to medium-full territory but never crosses into harshness. The finish is extraordinarily long — a true hallmark of the Siglo V over shorter Linea 1492 vitolas.
Construction, Burn & Draw
Construction is typically exemplary given El Laguito's strict quality controls — the burn is even and slow, the draw offers just enough resistance to feel precise, and the ash holds firm in dense, pale grey columns for 1–1.5 inches. Minor touch-ups are occasionally needed, as with all Habanos, but structural issues are rare in this vitola.
Pairing Recommendations
Spirit
Aged Cuban or Venezuelan rum — Havana Club 15-Year Gran Reserva or Diplomatico Reserva Exclusiva; alternatively, a well-aged Cognac such as Hennessy XO or Rémy Martin XO, which mirrors the cigar's dried fruit and creamy wood character
Wine
A mature Rioja Gran Reserva (Marqués de Murrieta Castillo Ygay) or a lightly oaked white Burgundy (Meursault Premier Cru) — the latter pairing surprisingly well with the Siglo V's floral and creamy registers
Non-Alcoholic
A double espresso or a lightly sweetened single-origin Ethiopian pour-over — the coffee's natural berry and citrus notes create a beautiful counterpoint to the cigar's earthier, creamier profile
Who Should Smoke This?
The Cohiba Siglo V is for the seasoned aficionado who appreciates subtlety over strength and complexity over volume. It suits the collector who owns a well-aging humidor, the connoisseur who savors a 90-minute solo session with a book or contemplative music, and the host seeking a cigar that elevates a significant conversation. Beginners may find the $40+ price point and required patience daunting, but those with a few years of smoking under their belt will recognize the Siglo V as a masterclass in balance. Reserve it for milestone celebrations, intimate dinners, or simply when time itself becomes a luxury.
Bottom Line
The Cohiba Siglo V is a benchmark of Cuban craftsmanship—elegant, complex, and uncommonly refined. It demands time and patience but rewards both with one of the most intellectually satisfying smoking experiences available. For the devotee of premium Habanos, it is an essential reference point.
Similar Cigars
Explore all Cohiba Robusto cigars.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Cohiba Siglo V a strong cigar?
No, the Siglo V is classified as medium strength (3/5). It builds gently toward medium-full in the final third but never crosses into harshness or aggression. Its power is subtle, derived from the double-fermented Ligero in the filler, which delivers warmth without overwhelming the palate.
What does Cohiba Siglo V taste like?
The flavor profile evolves across three distinct thirds. Initially, sweet hay, mild citrus peel, and white pepper give way to creamy cedar and refined earthiness with toasted almonds and floral notes. The second third introduces rich leather, roasted coffee bean, dark honey, and subtle cocoa on the retrohale. The final third consolidates into aged cedar, dark dried fruit (raisin, fig), espresso, and a persistent creaminess with an extraordinarily long finish.
How long does Cohiba Siglo V take to smoke?
Plan for 90 to 100 minutes at a measured pace. The Corona Gorda vitola (6.7 x 43) burns slowly and evenly, rewarding a relaxed rhythm. Rushing this cigar diminishes its complexity, so it is best reserved for sessions with adequate time.
What is the best pairing for Cohiba Siglo V?
Aged Cuban or Venezuelan rum—such as Havana Club 15-Year Gran Reserva or Diplomatico Reserva Exclusiva—mirrors the cigar’s dried fruit and creamy wood notes. Alternatively, a well-aged Cognac (Hennessy XO, Rémy Martin XO) or a mature Rioja Gran Reserva (Marqués de Murrieta Castillo Ygay) pairs beautifully. For non-alcoholic options, a double espresso or a lightly sweetened single-origin Ethiopian pour-over creates a lovely counterpoint.
Is Cohiba Siglo V good for beginners?
Generally, no. The Siglo V’s price point ($35–$55 per cigar) and 90-minute smoking time make it a significant investment, and its nuanced profile may be lost on a developing palate. Beginners are better served by milder, shorter, and more affordable Habanos like the Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure No. 2 before graduating to this prestige vitola.
Where can I buy Cohiba Siglo V?
Authorized Habanos S.A. retailers are the only reliable source for authentic Cohiba Siglo V. In Cuba, this includes Casa del Habano locations and select hotel shops. Internationally, licensed distributors in the UK, Canada, Hong Kong, and other markets carry them. Due to US trade restrictions, American smokers must purchase from overseas retailers or during travel. Beware of gray-market sellers and counterfeit products—always verify the holographic seals and factory codes.
What is the price of Cohiba Siglo V?
MSRP varies significantly by country due to import duties and regional pricing. Expect to pay between $35 and $55 per cigar in most markets, with box prices (25 cigars) ranging from $875 to $1,375. Prices fluctuate based on availability, market demand, and currency exchange rates.
Is Cohiba Siglo V worth aging?
Absolutely. The extra third-fermentation step in Cohiba’s tobacco already provides a smoother baseline compared to other Habanos, but further aging in a stable humidor (62–65% RH, 65–68°F) for 3–5 years softens any remaining youthful edges, deepens the dried fruit and cedar notes, and extends the already impressive finish. Many aficionados consider a well-aged Siglo V the pinnacle of the Cohiba portfolio.
What wrapper does Cohiba Siglo V use?
The wrapper is a Cuban Volado leaf from Vuelta Abajo, Pinar del Río, classified as Colorado in shade. This medium-dark caramel to reddish-brown wrapper has a silky sheen with subtle tooth, contributing to the cigar’s refined appearance and balanced combustion properties.
Where is Cohiba Siglo V made?
It is hand-rolled at the prestigious El Laguito factory in Havana, Cuba—the facility established in 1966 exclusively for Cohiba production. Only top-grade rollers (torcedores) are entrusted with the Siglo line, ensuring exceptional construction and consistency.