Description
The amber light from the lounge’s pendant lamp caught the wrapper as I lifted it from the cedar-lined box, its weight immediately noticeable in my palm. That particular evening in 2018, four years after its release, I finally had the chance to experience what many considered the widest limited edition ever produced by Cohiba. The Colorado Claro wrapper felt like silk between my fingers, and even before bringing it closer, the complex aroma had already begun to tell its story.
I’d been circling this particular Cohiba Robusto Supremo Edición Limitada 2014 for months, studying the release list and waiting for the right moment. The 58 ring gauge – the largest Cohiba had ever produced at that time – gave it an almost intimidating presence among the other cigars in my collection.
A Journey Through Three Acts
The cold draw revealed layers I hadn’t expected. Leather mingled with cream and cocoa, while subtle notes of grass and molasses danced underneath. There was something refined yet earthy – almost barnyard-like in the best possible way – that spoke to the Vuelta Abajo tobacco’s pedigree.
The first third hit like what I can only describe as a gripping blitzkrieg on the palate. Rich cedar dominated, supported by deep espresso notes that coated my tongue. The leather and potted soil earthiness came through strongly, with grassy undertones that reminded me of fresh-cut tobacco fields. A faint citrus brightness kept everything balanced, while molasses sweetness lingered in the background. The strength built from medium to medium-full quickly.
By the second third, this Cuban powerhouse had fully awakened. The strength intensified to full-bodied, becoming muscular and relentless. Cedar and espresso remained the driving forces, but the leather notes became more pronounced on the retrohale. The earthiness took on an almost potted soil quality that grounded the entire experience. I had to slow my smoking pace – this wasn’t a cigar to rush.
The final third delivered everything I’d hoped for from a Habanos edición limitada. Powerful and intense, with spicy elements joining the heavy espresso, cedar, and leather that had carried through from the beginning. The earth notes persisted right to the nub, creating a finish that seemed to last forever. Honestly, it’s the kind of conclusion that makes you immediately want another, even though you know you need time to process the experience.
Construction and Visual Appeal
The construction quality immediately impressed me. This sample showed the hallmarks of expert Cuban craftsmanship – the wrapper was applied flawlessly, with minimal veins and an oily sheen that caught the light beautifully. The seams were virtually invisible, and the cap was applied with the precision I’ve come to expect from Cuba‘s finest factories.
At 16.48 grams, it’s noticeably heavier than most robustos. The density suggests excellent tobacco selection and proper filling. The draw required a slightly deeper cut than usual, but once opened properly, it provided just the right amount of resistance. Burn characteristics were exemplary throughout – even, cool, and producing thick, creamy smoke that held well in still air.
The ash held for nearly two inches before dropping, displaying the tight, gray-white color that indicates well-fermented tobacco. This is clearly a bold habano made with the aged Vuelta Abajo leaves that give Cohiba its reputation.
Technical Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Length | 127mm (5 inches) |
| Ring Gauge | 58 (23.02mm diameter) |
| Weight | 16.48 grams |
| Vitola | Magnificos (Robusto family) |
| Strength | Medium to Full, escalating |
| Smoking Time | 45-60 minutes |
| Wrapper | Colorado Claro |
| Origin | Vuelta Abajo, Cuba |
Who Should Smoke This Cigar
This isn’t a short, stout cigar for beginners. The Robustos Supremos is designed for experienced smokers who appreciate power and complexity. If you’re comfortable with full-bodied cigars and enjoy the intensity that Cohiba robustos are known for, this will likely become a favorite.
I’d recommend it for special occasions rather than daily smoking. The price point and limited nature make it more of a celebration cigar. It’s perfect for those quiet evening moments when you have a full hour to dedicate to the experience. The heavy ring gauge means it’s not for those who prefer slender vitolas, but if you enjoy the smoking characteristics of larger formats, this delivers in spades.
Seasoned collectors of limited editions will find this particularly rewarding. It showcases everything that makes Cohiba special while offering a unique smoking experience that differs notably from the regular production Cohiba Siglo series.
Perfect Pairings
The power and complexity of this cigar demands equally sophisticated drink pairings. I’ve found that aged rum works exceptionally well – specifically something like Ron Zacapa 23 or Diplomático Reserva Exclusiva. The rum’s sweetness complements the molasses notes while standing up to the cigar’s strength.
For whiskey drinkers, a peated single malt Scotch like Ardbeg 10 or Lagavulin 16 creates an incredible synergy. The smoke and earth notes from both the cigar and whiskey seem to amplify each other. Bourbon works too – try it with something robust like Booker’s or Four Roses Single Barrel.
Coffee pairings shouldn’t be overlooked. A rich Cuban espresso or a dark roast from Jamaica Blue Mountain enhances the coffee notes already present in the cigar. For wine enthusiasts, a full-bodied Cabernet Sauvignon or a aged Barolo provides enough tannins and complexity to match the cigar’s intensity.
Port wine, particularly vintage Port, creates one of my favorite combinations. The sweetness balances the earthier elements while the fortified wine’s strength doesn’t get overwhelmed.
Storage and Aging Considerations
Proper storage is crucial for maintaining this cigar’s quality. I keep mine at 65-68% relative humidity and 65-68°F temperature. The Colorado Claro wrapper can be sensitive to humidity fluctuations, so consistency is key. Proper humidor maintenance becomes even more critical with limited edition releases.
These cigars have excellent aging potential. The 2014 release has shown beautiful development over the years I’ve been smoking them. The earthiness has become more refined, while the espresso notes have gained depth. I’d expect them to continue improving for another 5-10 years with proper storage.
Store them in their original box when possible – the cedar helps with aging and the SLB boxes are designed to maintain proper conditions. For detailed storage guidance, setting up your humidor correctly is essential, especially for cigars of this caliber.
Avoid temperature swings and check your humidification system regularly. These limited editions represent a significant investment, so protecting that investment with proper storage techniques from cultivation through storage makes financial and gustatory sense.
Cutting and Lighting Technique
The 58 ring gauge requires a confident cut. I prefer a straight cut about 1.5mm deeper than usual – this vitola benefits from a more open draw given its density. A sharp cutter is essential; dull blades can damage the cap structure.
For lighting, take your time. The large format means you need to ensure even ignition around the entire foot. I use a butane torch lighter, starting with the flame about an inch away and rotating the cigar slowly. Don’t rush this process – uneven lighting will affect the entire smoking experience.
Once lit, take slow, measured draws. The power of this blend can become overwhelming if you smoke too quickly. I typically take a draw every 45-60 seconds, which keeps the temperature manageable and allows the complex flavors to develop properly. Mastering proper smoking technique becomes especially important with cigars of this strength and complexity.
Authentication and Avoiding Counterfeits
Given the popularity and limited nature of the edicion limitada 2014 release, counterfeits are unfortunately common. Authentic cigars feature the standard Cohiba Band E plus an additional “Edición Limitada 2014” band with specific typography and placement.
Check for proper factory codes – authentic boxes show codes like ARG-DIC-2014 with proper Cuban factory formatting. The varnished SLB (Semi Boite Nature) box of 10 should feel substantial and show quality craftsmanship. Cheap cardboard boxes or unusual packaging are red flags.
Weight consistency is crucial – authentic cigars should weigh close to 16.48 grams each. Significant variation suggests poor quality control typical of counterfeits. The wrapper should show the oily, refined appearance of properly aged tobacco, not the dull or overly veined appearance common in fakes.
Purchase only from reputable sources. Established dealers with solid reputations provide the best protection against counterfeits. When in doubt, compare the construction quality, weight, and smoking characteristics against known authentic samples.
The Vuelta Abajo region’s unique terroir creates specific flavor characteristics that are difficult to replicate. Authentic cigars will show the complex earthiness and refined tobacco qualities that this region produces.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does this compare to regular production Cohiba robustos?
The Robusto Supremo is significantly more powerful and complex than standard Cohiba robustos. The 58 ring gauge provides a completely different smoking experience, with more earth and espresso notes. The aged tobacco blend creates intensity that remains consistent throughout, unlike some regular production cigars that can vary.
Is the 58 ring gauge too large for most smokers?
It depends on your preferences. This is definitely on the larger side, but the excellent construction makes it manageable. If you typically enjoy 50+ ring gauge cigars, you’ll likely adapt quickly. The smoking time extends to about an hour, so plan accordingly.
How many were produced in the 2014 release?
Habanos hasn’t disclosed exact production numbers for this limited edition, which is typical for their release list announcements. What we know is that it was distributed globally but in limited quantities, making authentic examples increasingly valuable over time.
What’s the best age to smoke these cigars?
I’ve enjoyed them from fresh (2014-2015) through nearly a decade of aging. They’re excellent now but continue developing complexity. The earthiness becomes more refined with age, while the power mellows slightly. There’s no wrong time, but 5-8 years post-production seems to be a sweet spot in my review of multiple samples over the years.
Why is the price so much higher than regular Cohibas?
Limited production, aged tobacco (minimum two years before rolling), special packaging, and collector demand all contribute to premium pricing. The larger ring gauge also requires more tobacco per cigar. As a limited edition, prices typically increase as availability decreases, making early purchases more economical for serious collectors.
