Cohiba 88 Short Year of the Dragon Humidor Review: A Limited Edition Masterpiece

Brand: Cohiba
Line: Year of the Dragon
Size: 4 1/2" x 54 (Robusto)
Wrapper: Cuban
Binder: Cuban
Filler: Cuban
Strength: Medium to Full
Price: £289

The Cohiba 88 Short Year of the Dragon Humidor is more than just a cigar packed in state-of-the art case; It’s a celebration of craftsmanship, culture, and the Chinese zodiac. This limited edition release has become a prized possession in my collection, so let’s explore this exceptional smoke together.

Look & Feel: 18/20

The Cohiba 88 Short - Year of the Dragon Humidor impresses at first glance with its luxurious appearance. Wrapped in a rich, dark brown Cuban wrapper, it boasts a velvety texture that is both inviting and indulgent. The cigar's construction is impeccable, displaying a flawless roll with no soft spots, and it feels substantial in hand, reflecting its robust 4 1/2" x 54 dimensions.

The iconic Cohiba band, adorned with gold accents, adds a touch of elegance, signaling its premium status. It’s a cigar that you’ll be proud to present, whether at a celebration or an intimate gathering.

Pre-Light: 14/20

Cutting the cap reveals a cold draw that’s pleasantly firm, offering a perfect resistance. The pre-light aroma is an enticing mix of sweet tobacco, earthiness, and a hint of cocoa, hinting at the complexity to come. With notes of cedar and spice dancing on the palate, the anticipation builds for the first light.

The initial puffs offer a smooth, creamy draw, making the pre-light experience an enjoyable precursor to the delightful journey ahead.

Burn: 16/20

Upon lighting, the Cohiba 88 Short ignites evenly, producing a rich, creamy smoke that fills the mouth with each draw. The burn line starts perfectly straight but can become a touch uneven, requiring occasional touch-ups to maintain its integrity. However, these minor adjustments are a small price to pay for such a luxurious smoke.

Flavor: 17/20

The flavor journey of the Cohiba 88 Short is nothing short of extraordinary:

1. First Third (0-20 minutes):
   From the first puff, I’m greeted with a symphony of flavors: a creamy mouthfeel accompanied by rich notes of coffee and chocolate. Hints of sweet spice linger in the background, creating a complex yet harmonious introduction. Retrohaling reveals a burst of floral notes that adds a layer of elegance to the experience.
2. Second Third (20-40 minutes):
   As I move into the second third, the flavor profile deepens. The coffee and chocolate notes remain, but now they are complemented by a delightful earthiness and subtle leather. The smoke develops a richer texture, becoming oilier on the palate. A touch of nuttiness emerges, offering balance to the existing flavors, while the strength gradually shifts towards a comfortable medium-full.
3. Final Third (40-60 minutes):
   The final stretch of the Cohiba 88 Short unveils a stunning transformation. The richness intensifies, introducing dark cocoa and a pronounced spice that lingers on the palate. There’s a slight sweetness reminiscent of dried fruit, perfectly balancing the robust flavors. The retrohale brings forth hints of cedar and a touch of pepper, culminating in a complex and satisfying finish.

Throughout the smoke, the aroma is heavenly, with notes of toasted tobacco and sweet spice wafting through the air, often drawing compliments from those nearby.

Overall Experience: 19/20

While it may not be an everyday cigar for many, Cohiba 88 Short Year of the Dragon shines as a celebratory smoke or a special treat. For those looking to indulge in something extraordinary, this limited edition Cohiba is a must-try, especially with a beautiful humidor to accompany it. 

Comparative Analysis

When considering the Cohiba 88 Short, it’s helpful to see how it compares to other premium cigars in its category.

The Cohiba 88 Short stands out in this comparison for its rich complexity and luxurious flavor profile. While it may be pricier than some options, the quality and experience justify the cost.

Pairings

To enhance the Cohiba 88 Short experience, consider these pairing suggestions:

• Sweet Bourbon: The sweetness and depth of aged sweet bourbon complement the cigar's rich flavors beautifully.
• Espresso: A shot of strong espresso accentuates the coffee notes while adding a delightful bitterness.
• Dark Chocolate: The richness of dark chocolate pairs wonderfully with the cocoa and spice notes, elevating the overall experience.

Final Thoughts

I give the Cohiba 88 Short Year of the Dragon an impressive 84/100. Its luxurious flavor profile, impeccable construction, and overall experience make it a standout choice for any cigar enthusiast. 

While the price point is higher, the investment is well worth it for a limited edition that embodies the essence of Cohiba.

Remember to savor this smoke slowly, allowing the complex flavors to unfold with each draw. Enjoy the luxurious journey that the Cohiba 88 Short Year of the Dragon has to offer!

James Peasley

James started out in the cigar industry in 2009, working for the leading cigar specialist in the UK for nearly a decade, slowly crafting his deep knowledge of cigars and developing a very refined palate. There's not many Cuban cigars he hasn't tasted, including Limited Edition Habanos and pre-embargo Davidoffs, as well as a large section of the New World offerings. When away from his desk he's usually found out walking in the countryside, or following other hot pursuits.