Cohiba Robusto

Cohiba cigars are famously known as “Castro’s cigars,” as the dictator reportedly utilized Cuba’s best tobaccos for his favorite blend. This blend would become Cohiba in 1966, which were rolled for personal smoking and diplomatic gifts only. In 1982, the cigars were first offered to the public in three sizes: Panetela, Corona Especial, and Lancero.

Cohiba Robusto, along with the Exquisito and the Espléndido were then added in 1989—the six sizes (now seven, with the addition of Pirámide Extra) became Cohiba’s collection known as “Línea Clásica.” Today, Línea Clásica (Classic Line) is one of four lineups offered by Cohiba; with others including Siglo, Maduro 5, and the brand’s most premium offering: Behike BHK.

As of 2014, these cigars can be a little more tricky to identify, as Cohiba updated the Classic Line’s bands to conform to a more modern style, first seen with the Behike BHK cigars. The new bands (“Standard Band G”) first appeared in this series with the Pirámide Extra cigar in 2012—later filling out the rest of the line in 2014. The new bands now feature holograms at the top and bottom of the band, as well as the added Taíno Indian hologram logo in the band’s center.

The Classic Line is billed as “medium to strong” and is regarded among the best robusto sizes from Cuba. Flavors are often described as having pepper, cedar, citrus, leather, nuts, honey sweetness, and bread-like attributes.