Introduction: The Art of Smoking a Cohiba
The Cohiba Siglo VI (6″ x 52 ring gauge) is Cuba’s flagship robusto—a cigar meant to be savored, not rushed. But most smokers waste its complex flavors by making rookie mistakes.
In Havana, locals treat Cohibas like a 2-hour luxury ritual. Here’s how to do it right:
1. Pre-Smoke Preparation
A. Storage Check
Humidity: 65-68% RH (use a Boveda pack).
Temperature: 65-70°F (avoid heat spikes).
Rest Time: 24+ hours after delivery (for stability).
Pro Tip: Tap the cigar gently near your ear—a crisp “snap” means it’s properly humidified.
B. Choose Your Setting
Time: Sunset (cooler air enhances flavors).
Pairing: Aged rum (Havana Club 15) or espresso.
Avoid: Windy areas (disrupts burn).
2. Cutting the Siglo VI Like a Pro
The Tools
✅ Double-blade guillotine (sharpest clean cut)
❌ Avoid: Punch cutters (restricts draw on large ring gauges)
The Technique
Locate the cap (about 1/8″ from the head).
Place the cutter perpendicular to the cigar.
Make one quick, confident snip (no sawing!).
“A bad cut ruins even the best Cohiba.” — Havana shopkeeper, La Casa del Habano
Left: Perfect cut (flat surface). Right: Overcut (wrapper unraveling).
3. Lighting: The Cuban Way
Forbidden Moves
🚫 Torch lighters (too hot—scorches tobacco)
🚫 Zippos (gasoline alters taste)
The Local Method
Use a soft flame (cedar spill or butane lighter).
Hold cigar at a 45° angle above the flame.
Rotate slowly while toasting the foot (10-15 sec).
Draw gently as the cherry forms (no inhaling!).
Goal: An even “pepperoni slice” glow (no tunneling).
4. Smoking: Pacing & Flavor Hunting
First Third (0-30 mins)
Puffs: 1-2 per minute (slow!).
Flavors: Creamy cedar, roasted almonds, sweet tobacco.
Second Third (30-60 mins)
Flavors Shift: Leather, dark chocolate, white pepper.
Retrohale (optional): Blow smoke through nose for spice notes.
Final Third (60-90 mins)
Peak Complexity: Coffee, honey, earthy truffle.
Stop When: Heat becomes sharp (~1.5″ from band).
“A Cohiba should never taste bitter—if it does, you’re rushing.” — Miguel, Havana cigar roller
5. Avoiding Common Mistakes
| Mistake | Why It’s Bad | Fix |
|---|---|---|
| Puffing too fast | Overheats tobacco → Bitter taste | Wait 60 sec between puffs |
| Ash obsession | Frequent tapping disrupts burn | Let ash fall naturally |
| Smoking past the band | Tar buildup ruins finish | Quit while flavors last |
6. How Locals Relight a Cohiba
If your Siglo VI goes out:
Blow out stale smoke through the cigar.
Re-toast the foot (no direct flame).
Wait 30 sec before puffing.
Note: More than 2 relights means poor storage.
7. Post-Smoke Ritual
Let it rest: Don’t crush the nub—let it die with dignity.
Pairing finale: Sip water to cleanse your palate.
Review flavors: Note tasting notes for next time.
8. Cohiba Siglo VI vs. Other Vitolas
| Vitola | Smoke Time | Strength | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Siglo VI | 90+ mins | Medium-Full | Slow evenings |
| Siglo IV | 60 mins | Medium | Quick luxury |
| Behike 52 | 70 mins | Full | Special occasions |
9. Test Your Knowledge (Quiz)
True or False: You should puff a Cohiba every 20 seconds.
(Answer: False—wait 60 sec!)What’s the ideal humidity for storage?
*(Answer: 65-68% RH)*
10. Where to Buy Authentic Siglo VIs
La Casa del Habano (Havana or authorized dealers)
Trusted online retailers (check for Habanos seals)
Red Flags:
❌ No box code
❌ Bands peel easily
❌ “Too good” prices
Ready to try? Shop Authentic Cohiba Siglo VIs Here
Comment below with your Cohiba stories! 🚬