Cohiba Robusto

The Cohiba Robusto is one of the most celebrated vitolas in the entire Cuban canon — measuring 124mm with a 50 ring gauge, it is the cigar that made the Robusto format globally popular when it was introduced in 1989. Medium to full-bodied with a creamy, complex profile — cedar, leather, coffee and a refined sweetness — the Cohiba Robusto delivers the full expression of Cohiba's triple-fermented ligero blend in approximately 45 minutes. It remains one of the best-selling and most consistently excellent Cuban cigars produced today.

More to explore: the story behind Cohiba cigars | our seed-to-box guide to cigar making

About Cohiba

Cohiba is Cuba's most prestigious cigar brand — created in 1966 as a private blend for Fidel Castro and senior Cuban officials before becoming available to the public in 1982. Produced exclusively at El Laguito factory in Havana, Cohiba is the only Cuban brand to use a unique triple fermentation process for its ligero leaves, delivering exceptional complexity and refinement. Today Cohiba encompasses the classic Línea 1492 (Siglo I through VI), the ultra-premium Behike line incorporating the rare Medio Tiempo leaf, and the Maduro 5 range.

Tasting Notes of the Cohiba Robusto

The Cohiba Robusto is a masterclass in balance — medium to full-bodied with a complexity that rewards the smoker throughout its 45-minute smoke time.

- Pre-light: Light cedar and sweet tobacco with a faint floral quality — the characteristic Cohiba aroma.

- First Third: Cream, cedar and toasted nuts open cleanly. The triple-fermented ligero gives an early complexity that sets Cohiba apart from other Cuban robustos.

- Second Third: Coffee and leather develop alongside dried fruit and gentle spice. The construction is impeccable — an even burn and a firm, oily wrapper.

- Final Third: Black pepper, earth and a long, complex finish with lingering sweetness. The strength builds gradually but never aggressively.

- Overall: Medium to full-bodied, balanced and consistently excellent — the benchmark Cuban Robusto.

English Market Selection.

Free UK delivery for purchases over £50.

Explore more Cohiba cigars: Cohiba Siglo II | Cohiba Collection

Fun Facts About the Cohiba Robusto

The Cohiba Robusto is widely credited with popularising the Robusto format globally. When it was introduced in 1989 — initially for export markets only — the short, wide vitola was considered unconventional. Within a decade, the Robusto had become the best-selling cigar format worldwide.

Cohiba uses a unique triple fermentation process for its ligero leaves — the third fermentation, in barrels, is exclusive to Cohiba and contributes the characteristic creaminess and complexity that distinguishes it from other Cuban brands using the same tobacco growing regions.

El Laguito, where all Cohiba cigars are produced, was originally a 1920s mansion in the Havana suburb of Cubanacan. It was converted into a cigar school and factory in the 1960s and has never produced cigars for any other brand.

FAQ About the Cohiba Robusto

Is the Cohiba Robusto good for beginners?
Its medium to full body makes it more suitable for smokers with some experience. If you're new to Cuban cigars, the Cohiba Siglo I or Siglo II would be a gentler introduction before moving to the Robusto.

How does the Cohiba Robusto compare to other Cuban Robustos?
The Cohiba Robusto is generally considered the benchmark — more complex and refined than the Partagas Serie D No.4 or Romeo y Julieta Reserva Real, though at a higher price point. The triple fermentation gives it a creaminess and depth other Cuban Robustos don't match.

How long does it take to smoke?
Approximately 45 minutes at a relaxed pace.

What does EMS mean?
English Market Selection — confirming the cigars arrived via the official Habanos UK importer Hunters & Frankau and passed additional authenticity and condition checks.