Cohiba Siglo II Review: An Iconic Cuban Experience

Brand: Cohiba
Line: Siglo
Size: 5 1/2" x 42 (Corona Gorda)
Wrapper: Cuban
Binder: Cuban
Filler: Cuban
Strength: Medium
Price: £675

The Cohiba Siglo II is a legendary cigar that has earned its place in the hearts of cigar aficionados around the world, including myself. Below are my main takeaways on this premium Cuban piece.

Look & Feel: 18/20

The Cohiba Siglo II greets you with a stunning appearance, featuring a smooth, reddish-brown wrapper that glistens with natural oils. Measuring 5 1/2" x 42, it has a comfortable size that feels substantial in the hand without being too bulky. This quality construction is indicative of Cohiba's commitment to excellence and craftsmanship, promising a satisfying smoking experience from start to finish.

Pre-Light: 18/20

Cutting the cap reveals an effortless draw, setting the stage for an enjoyable pre-light experience. The cold aroma is inviting, featuring notes of cedar, sweet tobacco, and a hint of spice. On the cold draw, I detect subtle hints of cocoa and dried fruits, building anticipation for the complex flavors that lie ahead.

Burn: 17/20

Once lit, the Cohiba Siglo II ignites smoothly, producing a steady burn that remains even throughout the smoking experience. The first few puffs deliver a rich, creamy smoke that envelops the palate with flavor. The ash holds well, typically reaching about an inch before dropping, and while it may require occasional touch-ups, this does not detract from the overall enjoyment.

The burn line stays stable, allowing for a relaxing and uninterrupted session. The draw is consistently open, enhancing the overall experience and allowing the complex flavors to shine through.

Flavor: 17/20

The flavor profile of the Cohiba Siglo II is a delightful exploration of rich, evolving tastes that reflect the sophistication of the Cohiba brand:

1. First Third (0-20 minutes):
   From the first puff, the Siglo II opens with a smooth and creamy texture, featuring notes of rich coffee and cocoa. A gentle sweetness weaves through, reminiscent of honey and toasted nuts, creating a balanced and satisfying introduction. The smoke is rich and well-rounded, setting an elegant tone for the journey ahead.
2. Second Third (20-40 minutes):
   As I delve deeper into the cigar, the flavors become more pronounced and complex. The coffee notes transition into a bolder espresso flavor, while the chocolate evolves into a deeper, richer profile. Hints of cedar and a touch of spice begin to emerge, adding depth and character to the smoking experience. 
3. Final Third (40-60 minutes):
   In the final third, the Siglo II reveals its full character. The spice intensifies, beautifully harmonizing with the underlying sweetness. Notes of leather and earthiness come forward, creating a delightful contrast with the richer flavors. The retrohale offers a captivating mix of spices and creaminess, leaving a long, satisfying finish that invites me to savor every moment.

Overall Experience: 19/20

The Cohiba Siglo II exemplifies the artistry of Cuban craftsmanship, offering a luxurious smoking experience that justifies its premium price. When compared to other cigars in its class, the Siglo II shines brightly with its remarkable balance of flavor, construction, and complexity. 

Comparative Analysis

To fully appreciate the Siglo II, it's valuable to see how it stacks up against other cigars in a similar price range:

Pairings

To enhance your experience with the Cohiba Siglo II, consider these refined pairings:

• Cognac VSOP: The delicate fruit and oak notes of a fine cognac create an elegant harmony with the cigar's complex profile.
• Espresso: A well-made espresso amplifies the cigar's natural chocolate undertones while providing a pleasant contrast to its cedar notes.
• Port Wine: A vintage tawny port offers sweet dried fruit characteristics that complement the cigar's leather and wood elements.

Siglo II Is Absolutely Worth Trying

To summarize, I have rated Cohiba Siglo II with an 89/100. I definitely recommend trying this cigar out, due to its exquisite flavor profile, expert craftsmanship, and luxurious smoking experience. 

It can surely be considered as a top-tier cigar, a true testament to the legacy of Cohiba. Due to slightly higher price point, my recommendation is to savor it for special occasions, but needless to say, you can surely smoke it any time and have a great and enjoyable experience.

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.