Cohiba — 15 Fascinating Facts About Cuba’s Most Famous Cigar Brand
When it comes to Cuban cigars, no name carries more prestige than Cohiba. Synonymous with luxury, craftsmanship, and exclusivity, Cohiba is the crown jewel of the Cuban cigar world. But beyond its unmistakable band and rich heritage lies a story filled with intrigue, politics, and passion.
Here are 15 fascinating facts about Cohiba, Cuba’s most iconic cigar brand.
1. Cohiba Began as a Secret Cigar for Fidel Castro
Cohiba was originally created in the 1960s as a private blend for Fidel Castro. For years, the brand was unavailable to the public and reserved only for Cuban leaders and as diplomatic gifts.
2. The Name Means “Tobacco”
The word Cohiba comes from the language of the indigenous Taíno people of Cuba, meaning “tobacco.” It’s one of the oldest recorded words connected to cigar history.
3. Officially Launched in 1966
Although the blend existed earlier, Cohiba was officially founded as a brand in 1966. For decades, its mystique grew because it wasn’t sold commercially until the 1980s.
4. Once the World’s Most Exclusive Cigar
For nearly 20 years, only heads of state, diplomats, and a handful of elites had access to Cohiba cigars. They were considered almost mythical outside of Cuba.
5. The El Laguito Factory is Its Home
Cohibas are rolled at El Laguito in Havana, one of Cuba’s most prestigious cigar factories. The building itself is a former mansion, now a temple of cigar craftsmanship.
6. Cohiba Uses a Unique Triple Fermentation Process
Unlike most Cuban cigars, Cohiba’s tobacco undergoes an additional third fermentation. This extra step gives the cigars their signature smoothness and refined flavour.
7. The Famous Cohiba Band Was Redesigned in 2003
The iconic black-and-gold Cohiba band featuring the head of a Taíno Indian was updated in 2003 with embossed gold and security features to combat counterfeiting.
8. Cohiba Offers Three Main Lines
- Cohiba Línea Clásica – the original blend launched in the 1980s.
- Cohiba Línea 1492 (Siglo series) – introduced in 1992 to mark Columbus’s 500th anniversary.
- Cohiba Maduro 5 – launched in 2007, featuring aged Maduro wrappers.
9. The Siglo VI is a Legend
Perhaps the most famous Cohiba, the Siglo VI (52 x 5.9″) is celebrated for its complexity and balance. It remains one of the most sought-after cigars worldwide.
10. Cohiba Behike is the Ultra-Luxury Line
Launched in 2010, Cohiba Behike quickly became one of the most luxurious cigars in the world. It features the rare medio tiempo leaf, found only at the top of certain tobacco plants.
11. Among the Most Counterfeited Cigars Globally
Because of its prestige and price, Cohiba is the most counterfeited cigar brand in the world. Buying only from trusted retailers is essential.
12. It Played a Role in Cold War Diplomacy
Cohibas were often gifted to visiting world leaders, making them an unlikely player in Cuban diplomacy during the Cold War.
13. Cohiba Prices Have Soared in Recent Years
In the UK, Cohiba cigars are among the most expensive available. Factors include demand, limited production, and their reputation as Cuba’s flagship brand.
14. Limited Editions are Collector’s Items
Cohiba releases regular Edición Limitada and special anniversary editions. These are highly collectible and often increase in value over time.
15. Still Hand-Rolled, the Cuban Way
Despite global fame and demand, every Cohiba is still rolled by hand in Cuba, following centuries-old traditions. Each cigar represents the pinnacle of Habanos craftsmanship.
Cohiba isn’t just a cigar brand—it’s a symbol of Cuban culture, political history, and artisanal excellence. From secret smokes for Castro to the world-famous Behike, Cohiba’s journey is as fascinating as the cigars themselves.
At Simply Cigars London, we stock a wide range of Cohiba cigars including Cohiba Siglo VI, Cohiba Robusto, and Cohiba Behike. Whether you’re a seasoned aficionado or looking to mark a special occasion, few cigars make a statement quite like Cohiba.