Description
The amber glow from the lounge’s vintage lamps caught the glossy surface of something extraordinary sitting behind the glass counter. I’d been browsing Havana’s premier tobacco shop for nearly an hour, but this ceramic vessel stopped me mid-conversation with the shopkeeper—its lustrous finish reflecting decades of Cuban craftsmanship tradition.
What I discovered that evening was the Cohiba Siglo VI Ceramic Jar, a presentation that transforms cigar storage into an art form. This isn’t just about the 25 premium cigars nestled inside; it’s about owning a piece of Cuban heritage that continues delivering perfect smoking conditions long after your purchase.
Having smoked through several of these ceramic jar collections over the years, I can tell you there’s something magical about the way this packaging preserves each cigar’s character. The built-in humidifier isn’t just functional—it’s essential for maintaining the delicate balance these cuban cigars demand.
Technical Specifications
| Length | 150mm (5⅞”) |
| Ring Gauge | 52 |
| Vitola | Cañonazo (Toro) |
| Strength | Medium-Full to Full |
| Smoking Time | 60-90 minutes |
| Packaging | 25cm x 15cm Ceramic Jar (25 cigars) |
Construction and Appearance
The moment you lift one of these cohiba siglo vi specimens from its ceramic home, you’re holding Cuban tobacco artistry. Each wrapper displays that distinctive Colorado shade—rich, oily, and practically glowing under proper lighting. I’ve never encountered a poorly constructed example from these ceramic jar editions.
The wrapper feels substantial yet supple between your fingers. You’ll notice the seamless construction immediately—no soft spots, no visible veins disrupting the smooth surface. The triple cap shows precise craftsmanship, and the foot reveals perfectly aligned filler tobacco that promises an even burn.
What sets the siglo vi ceramic jar presentation apart is how each cigar maintains optimal condition. The integrated humidification system in that beautiful ceramic housing ensures every stick you select feels as fresh as the day it left the factory. I’ve kept these jars for years, and they consistently deliver perfectly conditioned cigars.
Flavor Profile Journey
First Third: Elegant Introduction
The cohiba siglo vi ceramic opens with remarkable smoothness. Those initial draws deliver creamy cedar notes layered with subtle honey sweetness. There’s an underlying toast character that builds gradually, never overwhelming the palate. I’ve found the first twenty minutes consistently showcase why Cuban tobacco commands such respect—it’s refined power, not brute strength.
Middle Third: Complex Development
Around the halfway point, the siglo vi ceramic reveals its true personality. Rich caramel notes emerge alongside roasted nuts and coffee undertones. The earthiness becomes more pronounced, but it’s balanced by persistent cream and subtle spice. This is where experienced smokers appreciate the complexity that defines premium Cuban leaf.
The construction really shines during this phase. Even burn, perfect draw, and that distinctive Cohiba aroma that fills the room. Each puff delivers consistent flavor development without harshness or bite.
Final Third: Powerful Conclusion
The last portion intensifies beautifully. Leather and dark chocolate dominate, with warming spices and subtle cocoa notes. Some examples get slightly stronger here, but never unpleasantly so. The finish lingers with sweet tobacco and cedar—a perfect conclusion to this 70-minute journey.
Perfect Drink Pairings
I’ve experimented extensively with pairings for this particular vitola. Aged rum works magnificently—try a 15-year Zacapa or Diplomatico Reserva Exclusiva. The caramel notes in quality rum complement the cigar’s natural sweetness while standing up to its full-bodied strength.
For whiskey lovers, a peated single malt like Lagavulin 16 creates fascinating contrast with the cedar and leather notes. The smoke characteristics interplay beautifully with the Cuban tobacco’s earthiness.
Cognac enthusiasts should consider Hennessy XO or Rémy Martin XO. The grape-based spirits enhance the honey and spice elements while providing enough richness to match the cohiba siglo intensity.
Coffee pairings work surprisingly well too. A rich Cuban espresso or aged Jamaican Blue Mountain brings out the toast and cocoa notes without competing with the tobacco’s complexity.
Who Should Smoke This Cigar
The cohiba siglo vi demands respect and experience. I wouldn’t recommend it for newcomers to cuban tobacco—the complexity and strength can overwhelm developing palates. This is a cigar for enthusiasts who appreciate nuanced flavor development over 90 minutes.
Perfect for celebrating major milestones or sharing with fellow aficionados who understand premium tobacco. The ceramic jar presentation makes it an exceptional gift for serious collectors or anyone building a quality humidor.
Business entertainment situations suit this cigar well. It’s impressive without being ostentatious, and the smoking time allows for meaningful conversation. I’ve closed several important deals over these particular cigars.
Proper Cutting and Lighting
Use a sharp guillotine cutter to remove just the cap—about 1/8 inch maximum. The triple cap construction means you don’t need to cut deeply. A clean, precise cut ensures proper draw and prevents wrapper unraveling during the extended smoking time.
For lighting, I strongly recommend cedar spills or quality butane torches. Avoid sulfur matches, which can impart unwanted flavors to these premium leaves. Toast the foot evenly, rotating the cigar to ensure uniform ignition across all tobacco layers.
Take your time with the lighting process. Proper technique pays dividends with premium Cuban tobacco, and rushing this step can affect the entire smoking experience.
Storage and Aging Potential
The vi ceramic jar provides excellent storage, but you’ll need to maintain the integrated humidifier properly. I keep mine at 65-70% humidity and 65-68°F temperature. The ceramic material helps buffer humidity fluctuations better than traditional wood humidors.
These cigars age beautifully with proper conditions. I’ve smoked examples with 5-10 years of additional aging, and they develop incredible depth. The earth notes become more pronounced, while harsh edges completely disappear. Long-term storage rewards patient collectors with exceptional smoking experiences.
Monitor the jar’s humidifier monthly. Distilled water only—tap water minerals can damage both the humidification system and your cigars. The sealed environment preserves these premium sticks remarkably well when maintained properly.
Authentication and Avoiding Counterfeits
Authentic cohiba siglo vi ceramic jar presentations include specific security features. Look for holographic seals on the ceramic container and individual cigar bands with precise printing quality. The ceramic itself should feel substantial and well-finished—cheap knockoffs use inferior materials.
Genuine examples display consistent wrapper color and texture across all 25 cigars. Counterfeits often show variation in construction quality or mismatched tobacco appearance. The integrated humidifier should operate smoothly and maintain steady humidity levels.
Purchase only from authorized retailers with established reputations. Reputable dealers guarantee authenticity and proper storage conditions. The premium price reflects genuine Cuban tobacco quality—suspiciously cheap offers usually indicate fake products.
Authentic Cuban tobacco from the Vuelta Abajo region displays distinctive characteristics that experienced smokers recognize immediately. Trust your palate—genuine cohiba siglo tobacco tastes unmistakably different from inferior substitutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do cigars stay fresh in the ceramic jar?
With proper humidifier maintenance, the siglo vi ceramic jar keeps cigars fresh for several years. I’ve stored examples for over three years with excellent results. The sealed ceramic environment provides superior protection compared to traditional packaging.
Can I refill the ceramic jar with different cigars?
Absolutely. Once you’ve enjoyed the original contents, the jar functions as an excellent humidor for any premium cigars. The integrated humidification system works perfectly for ongoing storage. Many collectors use these containers long-term for their finest specimens.
What’s the difference between jar and box editions?
The ceramic jar provides superior long-term storage with its integrated humidifier. Traditional box presentations offer the same excellent cigars but require immediate transfer to proper humidor conditions. The jar costs more but delivers ongoing storage value.
How often should I refill the humidifier?
Check monthly and refill as needed with distilled water only. Usage patterns and climate affect consumption rates. Proper humidor maintenance principles apply to these ceramic systems. Consistent monitoring ensures optimal conditions for your investment.
Are these suitable for gifting to cigar beginners?
I’d recommend starting newcomers with milder options first. The cohiba siglo vi complexity and strength can overwhelm developing palates. However, for someone committed to learning about premium Cuban tobacco, this presentation provides an excellent education in quality construction and flavor development.
