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Have you even held a cigar that fit softly in your hands but felt as though it carried the influence of a gold brick!? Well this is that cigar. First impressions of the Siglo VI by Cohiba are that this is one cigar that is very well put together. It has that elusive charm of a Robusto, but the significance of a large cigar. This is one canon shot that gets your attention.
It was a fairly simple light for a cigar of this gauge and it required few corrections. This cigar was a unique experience for me as I was always trying to figure it out but always just missed its intentions. This cigar starts off aggressive and makes me think it will be spicy all the way, but just as you prepare for a frontal assault you can see the cigar shows its strategy and gives you a milder refinement found often in Hoyo De Monterrey cigars. Now at this point I was beginning to understand that I think I had just run into the first cigar that has ever outsmarted me! With a very sneaky coffee flavour that left a little bitter taste on the back of the tongue, and the consistent grassy flavour that defines the Cohiba brand this cigar was flowing with subtleties. An unusual taste for Cohiba is the underlying sweet influence of vanilla that is very difficult to pin down on this cigar (don't get me wrong though, there is only a slight influence here). An ever evolving spectrum of very subtle changes in flavour is what characterizes this stick and will have you more and more interested in the story this cigar has to tell. With a fantastic aroma and a great array of flavours this cigar is highly recommended (though my experience was with a two year old cigar, so age might be a factor).
All I can suggest is that you forget the hype surrounding this cigar. If you hear it is overrated or underrated forget what others say and allow yourself the simple pleasure of being intrigued by this clever cigar.
Origin: Cuba
Shape: Parejo
Size: 7 x 47
Vintage: Nov. 2004
Each time I see one of the recent Cohiba vitola close up, I am hypnotized by the glistening, gold-embossed lettering on the new bands. Befitting of "the jewel" of Habanos cigars, this particular band is wrapped around the flagship of the Cohiba brand, the Esplendido.
The wrapper is smooth and almost completely free of visible veins on the surface, which is coloured with a golden-tan shade and a slightly darker bunching of filler leaves at the foot of the cigar. Clipping the opposite end revealed the same familiar pattern of "bunched" filler leaves at the head with immediately revealed the same honey-like, manure aroma of fine quality Cuban tobacco.
Drawing through the cigar before lighting it produced a delightful flavour of creamy, rich tobacco with a barely detectable hint of spice. After evenly heating the foot of the cigar, I placed it in between my lips to savour that first draw of toasted tobacco ...no bitterness, no bite...just a smooth, creamy flavour reminiscent of the Cohiba blend.
For such a young cigar, I expected a slight bitterness at the start; however, from the first to the last draw, I found nothing but pleasant, rich flavors with subtle complexities as the flavors shifted ever so slightly from buttery to almost sweet, bringing back memories of the butter-cream icing spice cakes my mother used to bake for my birthday each year.
The cigar burned perfectly with a wonderful draw, producing mouthful after mouthful of soft, balanced flavors. The dark gray ash was highlighted with pale white streaks, as the first fragment dropped off after about two to three inches.
Although the underlying creamy flavors continued to develop throughout the entire cigar, subtle flavour changes became apparent at every inch or two. Toasted tobacco flavors and a mild nuttiness appeared and disappeared as the smoke entered my mouth and left through my nostrils.
I thought the North Texas heat (about 100 degrees on my back porch) would surely have a detrimental affect on my experience, yet I was so wrong. Even as the sweat drizzled from my brow, I continued to enjoy the full, rich flavors of this wonderful Habanos. Not wanting to put this cigar down, I continued smoking until my lips began to heat up and my finger-tips slightly singed.
I fully understand how the Cohiba Esplendido is one of the most sought after cigars in the world. As delightful as this cigar was at such an early age, I can only imagine how sublime it will be after several years of aging. If you have never tried one of these fabulous cigars, I encourage you to try one when the opportunity arises. You will not be disappointed.
Last Christmas I visited some relatives in Northumberland as usual. My uncle had come over from America where he now lives and, to my delight, his gift to me was a fine box of Cohiba Siglo V which a friend of his bought while in Cuba.
I was not sure about the legality of that but I did not care. They were in good condition, the box had been kept in a humi pouch bag, a great invention!
That same evening after one of the finest, most delicious Christmas dinners I had ever eaten, I sat in the front room of the lovely country house, watching the snowflakes hovering about in the darkness outside and the warm, crackling, open fireplace beside me. I sipped some cognac and took a Siglo V. The construction was precise, no deformations, a completely smooth and very oily wrapper with a perfectly constructed triple cap. It felt a little harder than most Habanos I had smoked, this was due to a tight roll. The smell from it was sweet and earthy, and made my senses flare up. I could not wait to put flame to leaf. I carefully snipped the end, no problems. As the flame from the long match licked at the foot of this beauty the cool smoke began to ease out. The draw was tough, to my disappointment, as I prefer an easier draw. The smoke was very cool and mild bodied at first but slowly as the first inch drew along it became stronger and a lot of flavours began to emerge. A lot of cedar and nutty flavours in the first third, slowly becoming more earthy into the second third, but not quite so much as with some other Cohibas such as the Robusto. The cedar, nuts, scent remained and well into the second third hints of liquorice and coffee tasted me. The roast coffee bean was more prominent. The last third became a lot more spicy and hot, too hot for my liking, and to my disappointment I had to let this cigar die an honourable death.
This cigar was full of flavours, but unfortunately the tight roll made drawing them out difficult and did spoil the enjoyment a little (do not smoke these if you are not up for a little sucking...ahem). To be fair, however, I did feel satisfied smoking this cigar. It lasted a good 2 hours and the flavours were wonderful. The room was filled with a rich, but not too oppressive, Cuban aroma of earthy, spicy tobacco. My uncle walked into the room (before I offered him one of these wonders) and just said "...that smells divine". It was a delicious cuban cigar (even if I did have to wrestle with the draw a little).
Aesthetics: 25/25
Construction: 15/25
Flavour: 22/25
Overall Opinion: 23/25
Total: 85/100
Construction: Few deformations, quite a smooth, rich, reddish brown wrapper with an oily sheen. Even throughout with no hard or soft spots. A well rolled cigar (almost a cigaritto). Pre-smoke: Very nice aroma, load a box of these into your humidor and, like with most other Cohiba cigars, you will be greeted with a beautiful aroma each time you open it. Aroma is soft and woody with a hint of roasted coffee bean; not very rich and strong but nice, though a little tart. This cigar cut well, no problems with un-ravelling or ripping. Lit fine, did not start "tunneling" or "canoeing" at all (even burn throughout in fact) and the draw was fairly easy.
Smoking: Smoking this cigar you are pleasantly surprised by it's smooth yet spicy flavour (though a touch of tartness when young). The coctail of flavours is not very complex, obviousely due to its small ring guage, but they are not too bad all the same. Flavours of cedar wood, roasted coffee bean and suint flood the palett at first, with a hint of liquorice and cocoa later on (mainly with a little age). This is a medium flavour and a light-medium body (not really earthy or leathery, more soft, woody and a hint of sweetness). Does not overpower the senses at all. This cigar becomes more spicey as you smoke it, but it does not become too hot near the end. I have smoked some larger cigars such as the H. Upmann Corona Major which burn the palett almost from the start, so I must give this little Habano it's due. On the other hand, it never really has the chance to get going as it is gone within 30 minutes of lighting up. As you smoke this cigar you are enticed by the flavour, but you keep wishing that it was larger and was able to display more complexity.
Conclusion: A good, and usually consistent Habano, but sometimes you will wish it was something larger. However this is perfect for after a nice lunch with a cup of coffee; if that is what you want, this is pretty much perfect. These are quite good straight from the tobacconist humidor, but with 6 months to a year aging these can burn a little better with a slight improvement in flavour; they become a touch smoother and less tart with more liquorice hints, lovely, but still not as good as a larger Cohiba like the Siglo VI of course.
Received this in a cigar auction I recently won at a cigar site with a bunch of other old nasty smokes.
A beautiful day, temp in mid 70's, light breeze the wind chimes playing occasional notes for me. Worked out on the bowflex, part of my new years resolution to get this old fat body in shape..
Earlier in this relaxing day I had smoked an 2002 Cohiba Lancero, a 2003 Cohiba Exquisito, and a Punch Mini. I have smoked other Cohibas throughout this past year including Robusto, Siglo IV, and Siglo V and love them all.
For dinner I cooked up 3 massive ribeyes each weighing in at a pound + for my 19 year old son heading back to college tomorrow, my wife and I. Mashed taters on the side and salad with a delicious bottle of Australian Merlot wine.
Afterwards, decided it was time to fire up a hopefully memorable smoke and selected this one as it was massive in girth worthy of the fine meal I had just consumed, and this it is one I have not had the opportunity to smoke yet.
This 150mm by 52 is a massive cigar to behold! The wrapper absolutely beautiful, dark brown with a hint of red peeking through. Very fine veins run throughout, I had to shine a bright light on this to distinctly reveal
them. I note that in the filler tobacco showing at the foot that there are several shades, about a third of it being very dark to black in colour. Mymouth waters.
I clipped this with my swiss army cigar cutter as the gauge made all my other cutters useless. After a few slow draws to savour the flavour which was not disappointing and to check the draw which was very easy, at 6:36 pm I torched the foot with my Colibri Trifecta to maximize the burn area and insure a uniform even light.
WOW! From the first draw I was overtaken by pure spice flavours as well as the unmistakable Cohiba flavour. The burn which is now past the first inch and a half has been even with out any attempt to run.
6:56 and the inch plus long, mottled gray ash just fell off on my last pull and landed with a thud on on the concrete floor in one piece after bouncing off my laptop which I am typing on as I smoke. I was able to pick up the ash without breaking it and lay it to rest it in the ashtray.
The aroma of this cigar is absolutely wonderful as well. I note a distinct sweetness to it and I hold the cigar in front of my face and wave the smoke into my nostrils with my hand.
Now starting into the middle third and the flavour has taken on a deeper richer tone. Fireworks shoot off in the distance, whistlers and bottle rockets and the stringed crackers, the cigar lay next to me and I am
surrounded by the most wonderful aroma it is yielding to my wife, the two puppies and I. A mortar shell bursts as I take another draw and simultaneously experience that great steady Cohiba Spice as intensely as the retort and flashing from the nearby fireworks.
I examine the burn line between the ash and unburnt wrapper. It is very thin, black, and evenly enveloping the middle of the cigar now. I muse to myself that this wrapper is special and wonder about it's origins and
history. When was it grown, how long has it cured. I wonder also how that spice flavour can be so prominent.
As I take another draw, I note that the spice flavour is fading and it is now becoming predominantly deeper in flavour, stronger in taste.
It is now 7:22 and we, my wife has joined me, are passing the midpoint of this cigar. The spice has definitely decreased but still noticeable, and Iwait for my wife to tell me it has gotten "too fuzzy" for her, she does not care for overly strong cigars.
Now in the last third and I am still picking up a slight spiciness, and the rich deep flavours.
7:36, I stand and stretch my legs, walk out by the pool, take some deep breaths and for the first time notice the chirping of insects nearby as the occasional firework retort sounds in the distance. I knock off the ash and torch the end to "sweeten" the last 2+ inches. I am not disappointed. Strong Cohiba Flavors now assault my palate with hints of the spice that was so strong earlier. The aroma is still heavenly as I sit and type again.
I try to loosen the band as the ash approaches it, but it will only slide a little. I'll have to wait for the ash to burn a little more then carefully slide it over the ash.
Finally, the band slips off at 7:43, I still have 2 inches to go. The wife heads inside with the puppies, a train whistle sounds mournfully in the distance as if echoing my sentiment that this wonderful past hour will soon be drawing to a close.
Now at the last inch and a half and the strength has taken over. The spice is gone and I feel a slight sweat break out on my brow as I draw heavily on the remaining fat nub.
Holey Cow, as I draw on this nub, I am once again assaulted with the spice and with the strength and rich flavours, where did that come from I wonder as I was just a moment ago considering laying this to rest, but now realize I must give this worthy cigar all it's due.
I stand again and walk out from under the porch and look up at the waxing moon and notice a clear and distinct halo as more fireworks sound off in the distance shooting up a series of retorts and explosions. I note now that I have a slight but comfortable buzzs going as I draw on the nub. I taste the heat of the fire entering my mouth as I continue to taste the spices and rich flavours. I am very surprised to be tasting this so late in this cigar. Perhaps it is the 52 ring gauge, perhaps it is the just a wonderful cigar. I draw again and burn my finger slightly but I cannot put it down yet.
Damn, it is now 8:03 and I just slightly burnt my lip, but the flavours are still coming, the aroma continues to envelop my senses, I am buzzing with delightful flavours.
8:05 and I am beginning to sweat a bit more, the flavour is now very strong and rich and my cigar is now less than an inch. Unfortunately, I am also beginning to burn my palate and I must stop. I lick my lips and still taste the sweet spices.
Well, this is one cigar I will not forget, and will have to find some more of to smoke again hopefully in the not too distant future.
I always try the punch first on these fatties and it proved to provide the perfect draw on this baby. I got massive Cuban flavor with leather and spice right off the bat.
Every draw seemed to hint at different flavors; licorice on one pull, pepper on another, was that cocoa I tasted for a minute?
The burn was even and the ash was dark but very firm! So firm, it lasted to the midway point before it fell on my shirt. The flavor was smooth but strong. The smoke was young but full and creamy.
Towards the end of this beauty, the spice kicked up a notch. Pepper is my favorite spice and it shown through for the last third of this smoke. The most pronounced flavor consistently present through this entire cigar was the one most difficult to define, that lovely something that is only found in Habanos!
There was one major problem with this cigar...It didn't last long enough!! I didn't want it to end. It is what Cuban Cigars are all about! I give it a 94 and I've never given higher.
Cohiba Siglo I Manufactured: March 2003 Jesus Christ, people! Can't believe I'm starting by saying this, but here it is, we finally reached the age where the stifling political correctness slowly (but surely) kills every inch of legal decadence left. Cigars in this case! I wouldn't be surprised if one day the Dept. of Health turned up saying, that's it, you can't post these reviews no more, it's against tobacco "advertising" regulations!!
Jesus Christ, I say in HORROR, one more time! But simply to the point: The Siglo I was, for myself, a superb discovery. For such a short size, it's a power rocket of sheer indulgence and pleasure, all wrapped up in a stick of truly impeccable construction, with the easiest draw you ever dreamed of! Its milk chocolate wrapper was of superb smell and feel, slightly oily for its rather young age.
On the upper side of Medium, this cigar allows unhindered flavours of earth and young leathers, in a voluptuously reach aroma which lasts till the very end. The first inch was a delight of flavoursome cool smoke, woody spice but not overpowering (important!) as a Montecristo or even other Cohibas.
The second one became 'settled in', maintaining the same array of complex flavour with a touch of rich, dark chocolate this time (I have to say here that this is simply what it tasted like to me, it probably won't to you, which is why I am generally against reviews over-abundant in culinary-style descriptions of cigars).
This cigar never got bitter (as a matter of fact, most Cubans, if smoked properly - i.e. not drawn on heavily - shouldn't become bitter/harsh at all) and maintained a lingering aftertaste of unobtrusive earthy saltiness. The burn was reasonably uniform and I only parted with the cigar (with fashionably heavy heart), about 1 inch to the end. I managed to get between 20-30 minutes of enjoinment from my Siglo I, coupled with a glass of 10-year old Port.
Now, please don't get me wrong, I am by no means a "seasoned" or "experienced" cigar smoker, but this Cohiba did live up to its reputation in my eyes. My rating out of 5? 5 and a big half, please! I hope I managed not to bore you all to death here with a page-long review full of phantasmagoric remarks and post-modern monologues, spiced with self-reflections and inner meditation about a cigars. I thought these pages were just a touch too full of such creations.
Recently I purchased a 3 pack of Cohiba Esplendidos. The packaging is quite nice a convenient way to bring a few excellent cigars to a extraordinary event such as a wedding, which is what I did. After the cocktail hour a few drinks and a fine meal I settled down to a glass of fine port and drew my package of 3 Cohibas, the ooohs and ahhhs and bulging eyes could be seen and heard around me. I opened this package of tasty treats and with one jerk of my hand slid one up out from the box.
It was such a lovely sight to behold. I rolled the cigar in my hand a bit finding no soft or hard spots it seemed flawless to the touch, I then proceeded to smell the length of the cigar to find it had a sweet pleasing aroma, I only hoped that it would taste as fine.
After carefully cutting the cigar I lit a small cedar strip off the candle which laid on the table and ever so slowly rotated the foot of this beauty slightly below the flame toasting it into a warm glow.
My first draw on this cigar was like a dream, it was not overpowering yet not mild by any standard, full with flavor rich with hints of leather and cedar and a slight sweetness like the aroma I had experienced earlier, the cigar held a metallic colored grey ash almost beyond belief with a perfect razor sharp burn. As I continued to enjoy this fine treat others had complimented and inquired about the sweetness of the aroma from my cigar .at the halfway point, the flavor of this beauty began to develop into a slightly stonger taste with hints of chocolate along with a creaminess which was building up in the back of my throat, when the cigar had reached about two thirds I hated to let it go out but didn't want to ruin my experience with this fine cigar, it's finish was nothing short of spectacular leaving me satisfied yet longing for another, cake was now being served but, I had to pass on that, as another Esplendido was awaiting me in my suit pocket.
It just so happens that I had a Siglo I sitting in my humidor. A friend and avid cigar collector had given it to me and claimed it came from a wonderful production from 97.
The appearance of the cigar had a very dark and extremely oily wrapper, so oily the label had turned dark orange. The construction seemed to have a contrast because it had a very flat cap but the body itself looked a bit bumpy and rough. Even though this was a smaller cigar, it glistened with the thoughts of a long smoke...it defiantly had my imagination going.
I was laying on the couch, a book in hand, jazz on the air waves and a glass of water on the coffee table. I was relaxed, and finally done dreaming of how this was going to play on my senses so I set the cigar to the flame. When I first lit it I was VERY disappointed because it had a very tight draw. The aroma was very distinct, but I was turning blue in the face and not really able to enjoy much more of the smoke. Once I got past the first quarter inch, I suddenly almost inhaled a huge thick cloud of smoke because it loosened up. Once I relaxed and stopped sweating there was not a single thing a could say negative against this smoke. It was very smooth and very earthy tasting, not peppery, but dark tasting. As I continued towards the last half, the spice suddenly kicked in and was fallowed by strong coffee flavors. While enjoying this, I wished I could have lived in a bubble containing only the smoke from this cigar because it was so aromatic and fragrant.
Before writing this review, I decided that I should light up one of these sticks to ensure, of course, that my review was as accurate as possible. ;-)
Upon first glance at this cigar, one can see that it is a beautifully, well-constructed cigar. It has a medium brown wrapper, with a slightly shiny appearance and smooth texture (although, sometimes a little venous). The cigar has a firm, solid feel in the hand and a light, but pleasant sweet, woody aroma.
The draw is perfect upon lighting with a very pleasant smell, which even my fiancée appreciates. She usually has a complaint or three about the bouquet!
Initially, the cigar has a slightly salty taste. This develops into a rich creamy flavour with hints of leather, spice and coffee, becoming sweeter further into the cigar (for those who appreciate that sort of detail!) However, I spend far too much of my day dissecting the mechanisms of biological phenomena at work, without repeating this when relaxing with a fine cigar and a glass of bourbon (sorry, Aficionados!)
This cigar, which rarely requires relighting, burns evenly, producing ample amounts of smoke, and has a firm, grey ash. Cohibas are generally "cool burners"; there is no "tongue burn" or sharpness around the end of the cigar, I could smoke this one until it burnt my fingers. I have often found that after parting with my cigar, and on the morning after, so my fiancée tells me, I suffer dragon breath. There is no such legacy after one of these sticks, they prefer to leave a slightly more subtle aftertaste.
Unfortunately, although Cohibas have become one of my favourite brands, I find I cannot afford to purchase them as often as I would like, due to their somewhat excessive cost.
If I were to give these cigars a mark out of 10, it would be an 8. They lose one point for their inflated price, and another because sometimes I am left wanting something a little stronger, and more complex, than these medium-flavour cigars. Despite this, I would recommend these cigars to anyone, beginner or those with a more sophisticated palate.
Just when I thought the holidays were over, another package arrived...from MO! I separated the Siglo IIs from the packing and placed them in a humidor to rest for several days. It looked like the postman had sat on the package, but the cigars were not damaged. I had never smoked this petite corona before and it took a lot of willpower to keep from lighting one immediately.
I planned on writing a review on each of the three cigars, but that would only be a waste of space. They were identical in every way....as they should be. Before lighting a cigar, I like to inspect it closely. The golden brown wrappers were smooth & dry. Pre-light draw was perfect, despite the slight postman's butt-pressing.
The cigars lit and burned effortlessly. The smooth draw allowed for volumes of smoke. A slightly dry taste at the start blossomed into a sweet woody flavor. At the half way point, I noticed a spicier flavor developing. The Siglo II never reached the spiciness of the many Siglo Is I've smoked, but that's not what I was looking for. I nubbed each one of the samples in about 50 minutes and am anticipating smoking plenty more of these in the future. Thank you Cgars LTD for the chance to participate in your fine taste test.
Part of the mystique of the Cohiba line is its distinctive look, taste, and aroma. The Siglo III's that I received were perfect examples. The chestnut golden wrapped triplets measured an exact 6-1/8" with a 42 ring gauge. No blemishes, no veining, and a beautifully tipped triple cap hallmarks the impeccable craftsmanship of the cigar maker. To my delight, all three bands were loose indicating proper storage and sufficient aging. They were ready to be smoked.
With the moderate 70 degree weather in Florida and a gentle breeze, I decided to start my Saturday morning with a fresh brewed cup of Jamaican Blue Mountain coffee and a Siglo III. The perfect time to savor the famed unique flavor of this Cohiba. From the start, the fresh taste of Spanish cedar filled my mouth with only a gentle pull. A perfect draw on a Corona Grande is a compliment to the skill of the torcedor. Even being outside, the redolence of the Siglo was quite discernible. Not strong, but gracefully filling the air with its pleasant woody aroma. As the smoking progressed, woody notes began to give way to a gentle spiciness that had definite undertones of coffee bean. This cigar was proving to be a perfect match with the subtle flavor of the Jamaican Blue Mountain coffee. A rich black ring preceded the gray black ash of the Siglo. This cigar was loaded with oil. Its black ash indicated that the tobacco was grown in the richest of soils with a high mineral content.
Normally, I smoke larger cigars, but to my pleasant surprise this cigar had complex and rich flavor. Even to the end, there was no hint of bitterness. The beauty of the artful roller was demonstrated in the draw and the consistent burning. The Corona Grande was a perfect size for a morning cigar and the Siglo III was a perfect compliment to the Blue Mountain coffee. Whether it be the triple fermenting, the secret blending, or the choice of the finest tobaccos in Cuba, the Siglo III is an outstanding cigar for those desiring a rich, medium smoke in the Corona Grande size.
I am thrilled to be "on staff" here at Cigars LTD as a cigar reviewer; I know it's a tough job reviewing Havanas but somebody's gotta do it! I have done this for SMOKE Magazine for the past 3 years so there is some experience in my corner. Normally I review cigars blind, however in this instance the cigars are banded and identified. This lends some interesting angles to the review as far as comparison (to prior vintage) goes. I have smoked many Cohiba Siglo IV s over the past few years and find them to be a very enjoyable vitola if procured at the right price, allowed to mature fully and smoked during just the right moment of the day. Mitchell sent me three cigars to review, the results are broken down into several catagories.
ASTHETICS....the wrappers were a medium Colorado shade, I'd call it chestnut brown...typical Cohiba color...they had very little evidence of oils and almost felt dry. These sticks did have a few spongey soft spots as this seems typical of recent Cohibas. This past winter I had the opportunity to observe several tobacconists in Geneva inspecting some Siglos and Esplendidos who made similar comments about the fill of this brand. Not a beautiful cigar, but certainly not a Henry Clay either!
BODY....When I think of a cigar's body, I first consider it's smoke quality. The Siglo IV truly excels in this category, as do most of the Cohiba range. The smoke is rich and chewey. It has an extremely woody depth to it. The wood seems to linger on the palate. The best description of the smoke produced by the Sig IV is CREAMY...the richness of this vitola makes it obvious that quality Havana tobacco is present within this cigar. There is also a very high smoke volume with each puff.
FLAVOR....this blend is one that lends itself to aging. There is nothing quite like a carefully matured Cohiba. I'm sure the folks at C.GARS LTD realize this cigar would have benefitted from the hands of time as it was obvious that this was a recent vintage. The flavor was still very complex within the wood/spice spectrum. The typical Cohiba gentle sweetness was also evident. The aroma, which is closely related to the flavor, is also sweet and pungent. Cedar, wood and spice fill the air with a wonderful bouquet, a magnificent blend of tobacco. I found this cigar to work well when accompanied by a smooth latte as the spice becomes accentuated. However my advice to consumers would be to purchase this cigar as an "investment" cigar...put it in the humidor and break it out during a special occasion a few years down the road.
STRENGTH...The Cohiba Siglo IV lies somewhere between the Bolivar Coronas Extra/Punch Super and the Saint Luis Rey/Magnum 46 marks on the scale. The nicotine content place this stick in the middle to high strength range. For someone who primarily smokes Havana cigars, this might suit as an after lunch companion. If you are not a regular to the Island range, you would certainly enjoy this one after a fine evening meal. I always smoke a Siglo IV on Christmas morning after a huge breakfast...I enjoy the creamy richness and moderate strength balance of this vitola.
OVERALL RATING....as stated before, this cigar becomes a masterpiece if properly nurtured. The one aspect that comes into the light when discussing the Cohiba line is price. The quality of this cigar is high, so is the price. You have to consider the ratio of quality to price when deciding on purchasing this cigar. Yes, I have a few of these in my humidors (waiting for Dec 25th!) however as a regular, everyday Havana Corona Gorda, I might opt to go with the H Upmann Magnum 46, Punch Super Selection #2 or Royal Selection #11. All age as beautifully as the Sig IV as all are cabinet selections . They are similar in strength and intensity yet somewhat easier on the wallet.
I was about to grab a Pilsner Urquell from the fridge when I was reminded by my little mind-imp who always tells me when I have screwed up something, that I had promised to do a tasting on a Cohiba. Not my favorite brand due to the inability to get them at a decent price and, if I try to get them from an unknown source, most likely to get a fake. Of course, the fact that the real love of my life, the Lancero, always seems to be an iffy buy, does not help the situation.
I went to my study for a Siglo I and had to smile at the fact that these came by way of an unexpected gift. Bloom was evident on every cigar. As with most of the Siglo line, it ain't the prettiest skin in the lot. The robe always reminds me of an aged ingenue, too long in the sun and starlight. [Notice the double entendre'? The wrapper is also known as the robe, and that is what an ingenue would wear, n'est pas?]
The cigar is firm, a tad too venous looking for a beauty contest, and made to the perfection required by Cohiba. I cut the perilla with my handy chavetta and get the cedar matches ready. Quickly, I open the Pilsner, take a seat on my deck, and light the cigar. To much dramatic stuff? OK.
The cigar has a salty taste before lighting, and smells of sweet, old, wood. The cigar lights well and burns slowly. The first draw emits woodsy aromas with a hint of burning leaves. The ash is deep gray and is rather solid. Since the cigar is a Tres Petit Corona (Perla), I expect there to be little change in the flavors and aromas as I get to the first half of the cigar. Wrong, again, G-Man! Just a few minutes into the cigar I noticed a peppery flavor that melded well with the wood notes. The ash remained on the cigar for the first half, and after breaking it off, was brittle to the touch yet fully consumed.
The lightness begins to fade to medium strength just after the halfway marker. By now, I have finished the bottle of Czech beer and need another. I laid the cigar down and rushed to the kitchen for my second bottle, returning in time not to have lost the momentum of the smoke and not having to re-light the cigar. The bitterness of the original Pilsner brew blends well with this cigar. It is long enough for a slow beer or two 10 oz bottles. Either way, I think this beverage is the best compliment for the Siglo I.
The Cubans have a name for the way the cigar burns, it is "arder." The combustibility of the cigar is an essential quality which the Cohiba brand guarantees, as long as you buy from a legitimate source.
I am getting near the cabo and I notice the cigar has begun to release it's flavors, giving me an explosive (well, in the manner of a firecracker versus a stick of TNT) finish.
It is time to start a few reviews on the Cohiba vitolas. In the past I have shied away from this brand because of a few personal prejudices. In addition, there are more "fake" Cohiba cigars on the world market than there are hairs on my head (not the best analogy).
The three standard smallest cigars produced in Cuba are the Laguito No. 3. Three are most familiar to smokers, the Flor de Rafael Gonzalez Marquez Cigaritto, the Montecristo Joyita, and the Cohiba Panatela. Each are 115mm x 10.32mm, weigh 2.81gr. They all are presented in a varnished semi boite, though the Cohiba's presentation is the classiest, while the Flor de Rafael Gonzalez Marquez is the least impressive, and, perhaps rather ugly. The Cohiba is sold in 50's, 25's, and packs of 5.
This vitola presents a problem for the blender. With a ring of 26, it is difficult to get much oomph from the smoke. Of the three, the Cohiba meets the challenge. It was shaping up to be a blazing end-of-Summer, in Los Angeles. Temperatures hit the high 80's and 90's, for several weeks, while the days gave up shadows to a far away fall. It was time for late afternoon coffee, pre-dinner chats, and girl watching before the skirts got longer and the blouses thicker. Excellent for a panatela.
The cigar looks dainty, but, as you all know, looks deceive. The cigar is little in size, only. It is amazing that Cohiba holds to its standard in producing these cigars. Each is perfect, in every respect.
As you hold this cigar and give it the once over (it is not big enough to give it a twice over), you will be reminded that Cohiba uses only the finest leaf. The color is a medium to dark brown without any red hues. The cigars are not firm, and should be handled gently. When smelling them I suggest not breathing too deeply for fear that the cigar will be lost in your nostril! There is a feint woody smell too the cigar and, when tasting it before lit, it lets you know that you are in for a spicy ride.
Using a Blazer to light the cigar is dangerous; you might burn a goodly part of the cigar in doing so, and you definitely do not want to lose any part of the cigar to anything other than your enjoyable smoke. It lights quickly and burns gently for the first half. The ash adheres to the body like wet sand on your legs; both must be shaken to drop. The ash has a rather ugly shape, not being composed of any substantial body. Not to worry, just flick it off and continue your smoke.
There are three dimensions to this tiny representative of the mansion in which the Cohiba headquarters are found. There is no mistaking the woody aroma and taste of the cigar. This does not wane and gets a bit harsh just before you burn your lips to take the last drag. A nice, rich, spiciness stays on your lips for the duration of the smoke, only to get bitter for the second before your last puff.
The cigar last just long enough to have an 8-oz. Cup of coffee. I prefer a strong brew with this smoke. If you have the time, I would venture a guess that you will light another one, not for the scarce nicotine, but for the delight of continuing to be around a very pleasant aroma and a most inviting taste.
There remains, a good 20 minutes after laying the stub down, an almost sweet, spicy, reminder on your lips, a reminder not to forget to keep a few boxes in your humidor.
Other than for the expected harsh finale of this mighty midget (trite phrase, but accurate), this cigar is a "10."
Fire, the wheel, gunpowder, moveable type, the steam engine, and the computer. What does this have to do with my tasting note on the new Cohiba Siglo VI? They are all milestones in civilization.
I waited interminably for my Siglo VI to arrive in the mail. I am glad that I did not hold my breath, since it has not come, yet. On the other hand, I was favored with one at a recent Herf at Kelly Kimura's home, where Mitchell, recently landed from across the Pond, handed me my first Siglo VI. Mo said "Go on, light up."
Not being shy when offered a gift, I gingerly "felt up" the cigar, eyed it carefully, sniffed at it, felt about the body a few more times, and then placed the cigar into that patulous gap just below my nose; I had just tasted the new world of cigars! There was a gentle sweetness with a slight acidulous undertone, at first, and I could not wait to light up. Well, truth be told, I forgot to cut the head. I'd make a horrible moile.
Filler - Cuba, Binder - Cuba, Wrapper - Cuba, 6.5 x 42 This slim, mature cigar bore a dusty teak-coloured wrapper airbrushed with tiny diamonds of plume and wore a delicate, lacy web of minute veins that were feint enough to give the illusion of being painted on. The band slipped effortlessly over the head of this cigar, the girth of which had obviously diminished with the passage of time. Masterful construction was evident in the firm, even roll and the perfectly executed cap; the signature pigtail cocked at a jaunty angle after being freed from its elegant pressboard capsule. The pre-light scents of mild cedar and aged tobacco wafted up as I turned the cylinder in my fingers, silken wrapper smooth to the touch. Once the cap fell to the sharp blade of the cutter, the draw was revealed to be perfectly resistant and, before the flicker of flame was brought near, the elegant flavours of exotic spice and a mild tickle on the lips presaged the melodious blend.
The waver of the match, cupped against the morning breeze, sought the end of the cigar and with gentle ease a full, even light was summoned. Comfortable, relaxing and inviting, the flavour trickled forth, a subdued mélange of dried citrus peel, oriental tea leaves - dark and tannic - and a hint of honeyed wild oat. The subtle finish left pleasant remembrance of the cedar aging and a clean cool feel of tobacco tingling in the mouth, tapering slowly with the passage of time. A meticulously even burn marched steadily up the length of the stick, each draw leaving a dark circle around the ash like the rings within a tree, collectively chronicling the story of an epic smoking episode. Halfway into the luxurious experience the flavour deepened and strengthened, enhanced with harmonious nuances of dark bakers chocolate and sage. The high teasing notes of wildflowers and pleasant vitality of cardamom flitted in to expand the sophisticated flavour.
Enjoyed on a warm sunny day, the gentle bay breeze and calming melodies of smooth jazz flowed along with the low splashing of a fountain and offered a delightful background for the experience. Sweet, alluring and pervasive, the aroma of the burning cigar reached out, its tendrils spreading around the deck area and seemingly chasing away any negative energy. In the final few inches, the rich, medium strength of the blend quickened my pulse as the warm embrace of heady spices began to fill in the core. As the cigar dwindled in size each new draw was an electrifying bolt of kaleidoscopic savouriness. The zest of the cigar was a perfect complement to my mid-morning meal, spicy fresh tomato bisque and a plate of balsamic sautéed onions and mozzarella cheese with toast points. I smoked this cigar to the very nub and the final puffs left a warm, gratifying finish that cemented the utter brilliance of the blend.
A magnificent smoking experience that is not often duplicated, the narrow gauge and masterful execution created a cigar that aged perfectly and came dangerously close to perfection. Highly recommended.
