Description
The Cohiba Medio Siglo represents the pinnacle of contemporary Cuban craftsmanship, a masterstroke of blending designed for the modern connoisseur who demands the full Cohiba experience in a condensed timeframe. Released in 2016 to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the world’s most prestigious cigar brand, this Petit Robusto vitola is a sophisticated hybrid, ingeniously combining the approachable length of the Siglo I with the impressive 52 ring gauge of the legendary Siglo VI. As the seventh addition to the esteemed Linea 1492, the Medio Siglo offers a medium-strength profile characterized by its remarkably creamy smoke, evolving from a spirited black pepper opening into a complex tapestry of cocoa, roasted coffee, and sweet cedar. Handcrafted at the iconic El Laguito factory using the “selection of the selection” tobacco leaves, this cigar is an essential acquisition for those seeking luxury, depth, and the unmistakable prestige of the yellow and black band.
Box Features and Packaging Options
| Feature | Box of 25 | Box of 10 |
|---|---|---|
| Cigars per Box | 25 Habanos | 10 Habanos |
| Packaging Type | Sliding Lid Box (SLB) in premium Cedar | Varnished Semi Boîte Nature / Luxury Cardboard |
| Ideal For | Serious collectors and long-term aging | Short-term enjoyment and gift-giving |
| Humidity Protection | Cedar lining for natural maturation | Compact format for travel humidors |
Cigar Specifications
| Vitola | Petit Robusto (Medio Siglo) |
| Length | 102 mm (4 inches) |
| Ring Gauge | 52 (20.64 mm) |
| Wrapper | Cuba (Vuelta Abajo – Proprietary Cohiba Blend) |
| Binder | Cuba (Vuelta Abajo – Proprietary Cohiba Blend) |
| Filler | Cuba (Tripa Larga – Long Filler) |
| Strength | Medium |
| Body | Medium to Full |
| Smoking Time | 30-60 Minutes |
| Factory | El Laguito, Havana |
| Brand Owner | Habanos S.A. |
Brand Heritage
The story of Cohiba is inextricably linked to the history of Cuba itself. Founded in 1966 as a private brand for President Fidel Castro and high-ranking government officials, Cohiba was shrouded in mystery for decades. The brand’s name derives from the ancient Taino word for the rolled tobacco leaves smoked by the indigenous people of Cuba. It wasn’t until 1982 that Cohiba was made available to the international public, instantly setting a new global benchmark for what a premium Cuban cigar should be. Produced at the legendary El Laguito factory, a converted colonial mansion in Havana, Cohiba cigars undergo an exclusive third fermentation in wooden barrels, a proprietary process that eliminates impurities and results in the brand’s signature smoothness and aromatic complexity.
The Linea 1492, also known as the Siglo series, was launched in 1992 to mark the 500th anniversary of Christopher Columbus’s arrival in the New World. While the original Linea Clasica offers a more robust, earthy experience, the Linea 1492 is celebrated for its elegance and refined sweetness. The Medio Siglo (meaning “Half Century”) was introduced during the 18th Habanos Festival in 2016 to celebrate Cohiba’s 50th year. By merging the dimensions of two of the line’s most successful vitolas, Habanos S.A. created a “modern classic” that caters to the contemporary preference for shorter, thicker cigars that deliver an immediate and impactful flavor profile without requiring hours of commitment.
Tasting Profile
First Third – The Opening
Upon lighting, the Cohiba Medio Siglo greets the palate with a sophisticated burst of black pepper and cedar. Unlike thinner vitolas, the 52 ring gauge allows for a cool, effortless draw that immediately fills the mouth with dense, velvety smoke. As the initial spice settles, notes of toasted bread and earthy spice emerge, underpinned by a subtle, grassy sweetness that is the hallmark of young Cohiba tobacco. The construction is evident from the start, with a perfect triple cap and a burn line that remains razor-sharp.
Second Third – The Heart
As the cigar progresses into the second third, the strength remains a steady medium, but the complexity intensifies significantly. The pepper recedes into the background, making way for a luxurious creamy texture. Aficionados will notice distinct notes of roasted coffee beans and dark cocoa, intertwined with a delicate flowery aroma. The nutty undertones—reminiscent of sweet almonds—begin to develop, creating a harmonious balance between the savory earthiness and the refined sweetness of the Linea 1492 blend.
Final Third – The Crescendo
In the final stages, the Medio Siglo reaches its peak of intensity. The flavors of sweet spices and nutty richness become more pronounced, while a hint of soft fruit provides a surprising and delightful nuance. The cedar notes return, now more seasoned and aromatic. Despite its short length, the cigar never becomes harsh or overheated, maintaining its creamy profile until the very last puff. The transition from the middle to the end is seamless, showcasing the expert fermentation and aging of the El Laguito leaves.
Finish
The finish is long, clean, and incredibly satisfying. It leaves a lingering aftertaste of sweet nuts and toasted cedar on the tongue. The smoke remains substantial throughout, providing a tactile luxury that stays with the smoker long after the cigar has been rested in the ashtray. It is a “clean” finish that invites another glass of your favorite pairing, never overwhelming the senses but leaving a clear impression of Habanos excellence.
Flavor Wheel
| Primary Notes | Black Pepper, Cream, Cedar |
| Secondary Notes | Roasted Coffee, Cocoa, Toasted Bread |
| Tertiary Notes | Sweet Almonds, Floral Blossoms, Soft Fruit |
| Finish | Long, Nutty, Clean, Sweet Spice |
| Aroma | Earthy Spice, Aromatic Wood, Rich Tobacco |
Aging and Collector Value
The Cohiba Medio Siglo is a prime candidate for long-term aging. While it is exceptionally enjoyable “off the shelf” due to the high quality of the 2016-onward harvests, its 52 ring gauge provides a significant volume of tobacco that evolves beautifully over time. Within the first 1 to 3 years, the initial peppery notes begin to soften, allowing the coffee and cocoa elements to become more dominant and integrated. Collectors often find that after five years, the Medio Siglo develops a “honeyed” quality, where the sweetness of the wrapper and the oils of the filler meld into a singular, silk-like experience.
For optimal maturation, these cigars should be stored in a high-quality cedar humidor maintained strictly at 70% relative humidity (RH) and a temperature of 21°C (70°F). The Box of 25 Sliding Lid Box (SLB) is particularly prized by collectors, as the cabinet-style packaging allows for better air circulation and flavor marriage between the cigars. As a commemorative release for Cohiba’s 50th anniversary, the Medio Siglo holds a special place in the Habanos portfolio, ensuring its value and desirability among enthusiasts will only grow as aged stock becomes rarer.
Perfect Pairings
| Beverage | Why It Works |
|---|---|
| Aged Cuban Rum | The molasses sweetness of an 11 or 15-year-old rum mirrors the creamy, sweet nut notes of the cigar. |
| Single Malt Scotch | A Speyside whisky with sherry cask influence provides a fruity depth that complements the cedar and spice. |
| Espresso | The concentrated bitterness of a short espresso enhances the roasted coffee and cocoa undertones. |
| Cognac (XO) | The velvet texture of a high-end Cognac aligns perfectly with the Medio Siglo’s creamy smoke. |
| Vintage Port | The dark fruit and residual sugar of a Port provide a stunning contrast to the peppery opening of the cigar. |
| Sparkling Water with Lime | A palate cleanser that allows the floral and nutty nuances of the Cohiba blend to take center stage. |
Authenticity Verification
As the most sought-after cigar brand in the world, Cohiba is frequently targeted by counterfeiters. We ensure that every Cohiba Medio Siglo we ship is 100% authentic, sourced directly through official Habanos S.A. channels. Your peace of mind is our priority.
- Habanos Holographic Seal – Every box features the official Habanos warranty seal with a holographic image and a unique barcode that can be verified on the Habanos website.
- Box Code Verification – The underside of each box is hot-stamped with the factory code (e.g., MAR, BRE) and the date of production, ensuring traceability to the El Laguito factory.
- Factory Stamp – Look for the “Totalmente a Mano – Tripa Larga” (Totally by Hand – Long Filler) stamp, a guarantee of traditional Cuban construction.
- Triple Cap – The Medio Siglo features the classic Cuban triple cap, a meticulous finishing technique that is rarely perfected by counterfeiters.
Our Guarantee: If any cigar fails Habanos verification, we provide a full refund. Trusted by collectors since 2015, we maintain the highest standards of storage and provenance.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the flavor profile of the Cohiba Medio Siglo?
The Cohiba Medio Siglo offers a medium-strength profile that is quintessentially Cohiba. It begins with a lively pepper and cedar spice, which quickly transitions into a core of creamy cocoa, roasted coffee, and sweet nuts. The smoke is exceptionally smooth, with a refined floral aroma that is characteristic of the Linea 1492 (Siglo) series.
How long does the Cohiba Medio Siglo take to smoke?
Despite its shorter length of 102mm (4 inches), the thick 52 ring gauge ensures a substantial smoking experience. On average, you can expect to enjoy this Petit Robusto for 30 to 60 minutes, depending on your pace. It is the perfect choice for a luxury smoke when time is limited but quality cannot be compromised.
Is the Cohiba Medio Siglo a medium or full-strength cigar?
The Medio Siglo is classified as a medium-strength cigar. While it possesses the complexity and “body” of a fuller cigar, it lacks the aggressive nicotine punch of the Linea Clasica or the Behike series. This makes it an approachable option for newer smokers while remaining deeply satisfying for seasoned aficionados.
Where is the Cohiba Medio Siglo made?
Every authentic Cohiba Medio Siglo is handcrafted at the world-famous El Laguito factory in Havana, Cuba. This factory is reserved for the production of Cohiba and select specialty Habanos, employing the most skilled torcedores (rollers) in the country to ensure perfect construction and draw.
Does the Cohiba Medio Siglo come in tubes?
Yes, the Medio Siglo is available in aluminum tubos (usually in packs of 3). These tubes are lined with cedar and are ideal for maintaining the cigar’s humidity while traveling, making them a popular choice for aficionados on the move.
