Description
The Cohiba Churchill stands as a monumental achievement in the world of premium tobacco, representing the intersection of historical prestige and contemporary blending mastery. As the flagship vitola for those who seek an extended, meditative smoking experience, this 178 mm (7-inch) masterpiece is defined by its stately 49 ring gauge and a profile that epitomizes “luxury sophistication.” Designed for the connoisseur who commands time rather than follows it, the Cohiba Churchill offers a medium-strength journey through a landscape of creamy cedar, rich leather, and subtle cocoa. Every inch of this cigar is a testament to the meticulous fermentation process that has made the Cohiba name synonymous with the global elite. Whether it is the velvet-like texture of the smoke or the perfectly balanced complexity that evolves over a 120-minute session, the Churchill remains the definitive choice for celebrating life’s most significant milestones.
Box Features and Packaging Options
| Feature | Box of 25 | Box of 10 |
|---|---|---|
| Cigars per Box | 25 Individual Hand-Rolled Cigars | 10 Individual Hand-Rolled Cigars |
| Packaging Type | Classic Cedar Dress Box with Embossed Gold Foil | Elegant Slide-Lid Cabinet or Compact Dress Box |
| Ideal For | Long-term aging and serious collectors | Gifting or trial for new enthusiasts |
| Humidity Protection | Cedar lining maintains essential oils and aroma | Perfectly sealed for shorter-term storage stability |
Cigar Specifications
| Vitola | Churchill |
| Length | 178 mm (7 inches) |
| Ring Gauge | 49 |
| Wrapper | Cameroon (Natural, Toothy, Savory) |
| Binder | Rare Indonesian |
| Filler | Select Dominican Blend (Heritage Reserves) |
| Strength | Medium |
| Body | Medium to Full |
| Smoking Time | 90-120 Minutes |
| Factory | Dominican Republic (Cohiba Heritage Facility) |
| Brand Owner | General Cigar Co. / Cohiba |
Brand Heritage
The story of Cohiba is inextricably linked to the history of modern cigar culture. Established in 1966, the brand was initially created as a private reserve for Fidel Castro and high-ranking diplomats. For decades, these cigars were never available for public purchase; they were the ultimate “gift of state,” hand-crafted in the legendary El Laguito factory using the finest leaves from the Vuelta Abajo region. This air of exclusivity and mystery cemented Cohiba’s reputation as the “selection of selections.”
As the brand expanded its reach globally, the Churchill vitola became a cornerstone of its portfolio. Named after Sir Winston Churchill, who famously preferred this long, elegant format, the size embodies a sense of power and patience. Over the years, Cohiba has been the cigar of choice for world leaders and cultural icons, including figures like Bill Clinton and Nelson Mandela. Today, the Cohiba Churchill continues to uphold these heritage standards, utilizing a unique triple-fermentation process that removes impurities and creates the signature smoothness that other brands simply cannot replicate.
Tasting Profile
First Third – The Opening
The experience begins with a pre-light aroma that is richly nutty with delicate hints of baking spice. Upon lighting, the initial draws introduce a sophisticated cedar and cream foundation. The smoke density is impressive, coating the palate with a mild coffee undertone and a very gentle white pepper spice. This opening is remarkably elegant, designed to awaken the senses without overwhelming them, setting a refined tone for the journey ahead.
Second Third – The Heart
As the cigar transitions into the second third, the flavors deepen and the complexity intensifies. The creamy cedar evolves into a more pronounced leather and cocoa profile. This stage highlights the unique fermentation of the Cameroon wrapper, which adds a subtle, savory sweetness to the blend. The Dominican filler provides an earthy richness that remains perfectly balanced, ensuring that the strength stays at a steady medium while the body grows fuller and more resonant.
Final Third – The Crescendo
In the final stages, the Cohiba Churchill reaches its peak. The flavors shift toward robust coffee, dark earth, and a more assertive peppery crescendo. Despite the increase in intensity, the cigar maintains a flawless draw and an even burn line. There is no hint of bitterness; instead, the dark tobacco notes are tempered by a lingering nutty sweetness that keeps the profile sophisticated until the very last puff.
Finish
The finish of the Cohiba Churchill is long, clean, and exceptionally creamy. It leaves a persistent cedar and leather impression on the palate, inviting the smoker to reflect on the complexity of the blend. It is a luxurious, non-cloying aftertaste that distinguishes the Churchill as a premier choice for an extended indulgence.
Flavor Wheel
| Primary Notes | Creamy Cedar, Smooth Coffee, Natural Tobacco |
| Secondary Notes | Rich Leather, Cocoa Powder, Roasted Nuts |
| Tertiary Notes | White Pepper, Earthy Musk, Subtle Honey |
| Finish | Clean, Lingering Cream, Cedarwood |
| Aroma | Toasted Bread, Sweet Spice, Dark Wood |
Aging and Collector Value
The Cohiba Churchill is a prime candidate for long-term humidification. Due to the high quality of the Cameroon wrapper and the oily nature of the Dominican core, this cigar undergoes a beautiful transformation when aged correctly. Collectors often find that the initial spice mellows significantly over time, allowing honeyed sweetness and secondary notes of vintage leather to come to the forefront.
For optimal results, we recommend aging these cigars for 2 to 5 years in a cedar-lined humidor maintained at 70% Relative Humidity (RH) and a temperature of 21°C (70°F). Storing them in their original cedar boxes will further enhance the “bouquet” of the tobacco. A well-aged Cohiba Churchill is not just a smoke; it is a collector’s heirloom that appreciates in both flavor complexity and sentimental value, making it a staple for any serious connoisseur’s humidor.
Perfect Pairings
| Beverage | Why It Works |
|---|---|
| Aged Rum (Diplomático Reserva) | The molasses sweetness of the rum amplifies the cocoa and honey notes in the cigar. |
| Single Malt Scotch (Macallan 18) | Sherry cask finishes provide a cedar synergy that matches the cigar’s primary profile. |
| Cognac (Hennessy XO) | The velvety texture of a high-end cognac mirrors the leather and cream depth of the smoke. |
| Black Coffee / Espresso | Strong, dark coffee enhances the roasted coffee bean undertones found in the final third. |
| Bourbon (Woodford Reserve) | Vanilla and oak notes from the bourbon complement the toasty cedar of the Churchill. |
| Port Wine (Vintage Tawny) | The dark fruit and nuttiness of the Port provide a beautiful contrast to the peppery finish. |
Authenticity Verification
In the world of luxury cigars, authenticity is paramount. We take extreme measures to ensure that every Cohiba Churchill in our humidor is a genuine product of master craftsmanship. Our cigars are sourced through official channels and are subject to rigorous quality control checks before they reach your collection.
- Habanos Holographic Seal – Each box features a high-security holographic seal that is tamper-proof, ensuring the cigars have not been replaced or altered.
- Box Code Verification – Every box is marked with a unique identification code that can be verified through the official Habanos or manufacturer database to confirm its origin and production date.
- Factory Stamp – The bottom of each box includes the “Totalmente a Mano” (Totally by Hand) stamp, along with the specific factory code and date of packaging.
- Triple Cap – Authentic Cohibas are finished with a flawless triple cap, a hallmark of expert rollers that ensures a perfect cut and a smooth draw.
Our Guarantee: If any cigar fails Habanos or manufacturer verification, we provide a full refund. We have been trusted by global collectors since 2015 to deliver only the finest, 100% authentic tobacco products.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the Cohiba Churchill taste like?
The Cohiba Churchill is defined by a medium-strength profile that is exceptionally smooth. You can expect primary notes of creamy cedar and leather, which are complemented by coffee and cocoa. As the cigar progresses, it develops a more earthy and peppery character, but it always maintains a refined, clean finish that is characteristic of the Cohiba fermentation process.
How long does it take to smoke a Cohiba Churchill?
Given its 178 mm (7-inch) length and 49 ring gauge, the Cohiba Churchill is a “slow-burn” cigar. It typically requires between 90 and 120 minutes to finish. It is designed for moments where you have the time to sit back and appreciate the evolution of the blend, making it perfect for post-dinner relaxation or a long afternoon on a terrace.
Is the Cohiba Churchill a full-strength cigar?
No, the Cohiba Churchill is widely considered a medium-strength cigar. While it offers a full-bodied smoke with plenty of flavor and aroma, it does not have the aggressive “nicotine kick” associated with full-strength blends. This makes it approachable for intermediate smokers while still providing the complexity required by seasoned aficionados.
Does the Cohiba Churchill age well?
Absolutely. The Cameroon wrapper and Dominican filler are specifically chosen for their ability to develop over time. While the cigar is excellent right out of the box, 2 to 5 years of aging will allow the oils to marry, resulting in a smoother, sweeter, and more nuanced smoking experience. It is one of the most popular vitolas for long-term collecting.
How does the Cohiba Churchill compare to the Cohiba Black Churchill?
The standard Cohiba Churchill (Red Dot) features a Cameroon wrapper and focuses on cream, cedar, and medium strength. In contrast, the Cohiba Black Churchill uses a darker Connecticut Broadleaf Maduro wrapper, which results in a bolder, medium-to-full strength profile with more emphasis on dark chocolate, espresso, and heavy spice. The standard Churchill is more “classic” and “refined,” while the Black is “robust” and “intense.”
