Cohiba Esplendidos

Cohiba is the premier brand among Habanos. It was created in 1966 specifically for the Máximo Líder, Fidel Castro. For a long time, its place of origin was a closely guarded secret, as no one was meant to know where it came from. Essentially, Cohiba cigars were for a long time the unofficial house brand of the state leadership and were virtually impossible to get hold of outside this inner circle. With one major exception: as a gift reserved exclusively for high-ranking state guests

Made from the cream of the crop

It was not until 1982 that the decision was taken to release a limited allocation onto the open market. By this point at the latest, the place of origin had become widely known amongst aficionados around the world: the El Laguito factory in Havana. The former villa of a sugar baron is the birthplace of this first post-revolutionary brand. It lies a good distance outside the city in the Cubanacán district, which is why its location was able to remain a secret for so long. It is here that the cream of the crop is blended to create a Cohiba – the very pinnacle of Habanos.

Unique in its format

The Cohiba Esplendidos is arguably the most famous cigar from the Cohiba brand. Among the enthusiasts of this format are Arnold Schwarzenegger and Gerhard Schröder, to name but a few. It is one of Cohiba’s stronger blends, yet its format ensures it remains mild to smoke. Its aromatic intensity unfolds with every puff, with earthy notes and aromas of leather and wood dominating. These are complemented by a nutty note with a hint of sweetness and a creamy smoke.

Here’s what Cigar Aficionado has to say

“ Whilst the draw is somewhat firm, the smoke produced by this Churchill is quite dense and reveals a sweet and nutty blend of almond paste notes, honey and wood. The earthy undertones lend a sense of body and weight. “ ” Cigar Aficionado, 1 December 2023

Tasting Report

Cigar exterior: Finely oily wrapper.
Cigar construction: Medium roll, well-made.
Smoke: Creamy with a slight sweetness and medium smoke volume.
Flavour: Earth , leather and wood dominate.
Burn: Good burn