Cohiba Robustos Review: A Bold Cuban Masterpiece

Brand: Cohiba
Line: Robustos
Size: 4.9" x 50 (Robusto)
Wrapper: Cuban
Binder: Cuban
Filler: Cuban
Strength: Medium to Full
Price: £1049 (box of 25)

The Cohiba Robustos has truly earned its place among my favorite cigars and stands out as one of the finest in the world. With its bold and complex flavor profile, this cigar represents the pinnacle of Cuban craftsmanship, offering me a luxurious smoking experience every time I light up. 

Look & Feel: 19/20

From the moment you hold the Cohiba Robustos in your hand, you can sense its quality. The wrapper is flawless—rich in color with an oily sheen, and smooth to the touch. The cigar feels substantial, well-packed, and carefully constructed, giving you confidence that you’re about to embark on a luxurious smoking experience. 

The weight and balance of the cigar feel perfect, providing that familiar sense of indulgence that comes with high-end Cuban cigars.

The signature Cohiba band, with its classic gold and black design, exudes elegance and tradition. The Robustos, measuring 4.9" x 50, offers a shorter but denser experience, making it perfect for those who seek a rich, flavorful smoke without the extended time commitment of larger vitolas.

Pre-Light: 18/20

Before lighting, I took a moment to savor the cold draw and aromas. The draw offered a perfect resistance, not too loose nor too tight. Sweet notes of cocoa and earthy undertones greeted my palate, with a hint of spice that promised complexity. 

The pre-light aroma was rich and inviting, with a slight pepperiness that hinted at the bold flavors to come. This initial prelude set the stage for a memorable experience.

Burn: 17/20

When I light the Cohiba Robustos, it burnes evenly with a mostly consistent line every single time. I found there was minimal need for touch-ups, and the cigar maintained its structure throughout the smoke. The ash held firm for over an inch at a time, which I took as a testament to its excellent construction. 

The draw was smooth and effortless, producing thick, creamy clouds of smoke that were deeply satisfying. While I did have to correct the burn once or twice, these were minor adjustments that didn’t detract from my overall experience.

Flavor: 19/20

The flavor journey of the Cohiba Robustos is one of the most enjoyable aspects of this cigar. From the first puff to the last, the flavors evolve and build, offering a complex and satisfying experience.

• First Third (0-20 minutes):
  The cigar opens with rich notes of coffee and wood, complemented by a subtle spiciness. The smoke is velvety and dense, coating the palate with a smooth richness. Hints of cocoa and a light pepper note add depth to the opening act, setting the stage for more complexity to come.
• Second Third (20-40 minutes):
  As I moved into the second third, the flavors deepened. Leather and cocoa took center stage, balanced with an earthy undertone. The spiciness from the first third remained but was more subdued, allowing the richer flavors to dominate. There were also subtle hints of sweetness, which paired beautifully with the cigar’s bold core.
• Final Third (40-60 minutes):
  In the final third, the cigar intensified further, offering a luxurious finish. The dark chocolate notes were more pronounced, with a lingering peppery spice that tingled on the palate. The balance of flavors was impeccable, with the richness of leather, cocoa, and a final burst of peppery spice creating a memorable conclusion.

Overall Experience: 20/20

The Cohiba Robustos delivers on every front: flavor, construction, draw, and burn. It is a masterpiece of Cuban craftsmanship, combining bold, evolving flavors with a luxurious feel that enhances the experience from start to finish. 

While the price tag of £1049 for a box of 25 cigars places it in the premium category, the smoking experience justifies the investment. Whether enjoyed during a special occasion or as a treat after a long day, the Cohiba Robustos stands out as one of the finest cigars available.

Comparative Analysis

When comparing the Cohiba Robustos to other premium cigars, it becomes clear why this cigar is held in such high regard. Its complex flavor profile, excellent construction, and overall experience make it one of the best robustos in the world. Below is a comparative analysis of how the Cohiba Robustos stacks up against other high-end cigars in terms of size, price, strength, flavor, construction, and value.

In this comparison, the Cohiba Robustos clearly stands out. Its bold, rich flavor profile and impeccable construction make it a top choice, even at a higher price point. While other cigars, such as the Montecristo No. 2 or Partagas Serie D No. 4, offer excellent experiences in their own right, the Cohiba Robustos delivers a level of craftsmanship and complexity that sets it apart from the rest.

Pairings

Pairing the Cohiba Robustos with the right beverage can enhance the overall smoking experience. Here are a few suggestions that work well with the rich, bold flavors of this cigar:

• Aged Cognac: The smooth, rich notes of aged cognac enhance the cigar's complexity, adding warmth and depth to the experience.
• Cuban Coffee: This robust coffee complements the bold flavors of the cigar, enhancing its earthy and cocoa notes with its strong, rich profile.
• Dark Chocolate: The sweetness and bitterness of dark chocolate bring out the cocoa notes in the cigar while providing a delightful contrast to its spiciness.

Final Thoughts

The Cohiba Robustos scores an impressive 94/100 in my book. Its bold, evolving flavors and exceptional construction make it one of the finest robustos on the market today. While it is priced at the higher end of the spectrum, the luxurious experience it provides more than justifies the cost. 

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to indulge in a high-quality Cuban cigar, the Cohiba Robustos is a worthy choice for any serious aficionado.

Compared to other cigars, the Cohiba Robustos clearly stands out, delivering a richer, more complex flavor profile and a level of craftsmanship that few can match. If you’re in search of a truly exceptional cigar, this robusto should be at the top of your list.

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.