Description
The Cohiba Siglo VI stands as the undisputed crown jewel of the Línea 1492, a cigar that redefined the landscape of modern Habanos upon its debut. Often referred to by its prestigious vitola de galera, the Cañonazo (or “Cannon Shot”), this Robusto Extra is a masterclass in balance, power, and aromatic complexity. Boasting a formidable 52 ring gauge and a medium-to-full bodied strength profile, the Siglo VI is revered by connoisseurs for its signature transition from creamy vanilla and white pepper to a deep, resonant core of roasted coffee, honey, and cedar. Hand-rolled at the legendary El Laguito factory using the finest tobacco from the Vuelta Abajo region, this cigar represents the pinnacle of Cuban craftsmanship. Whether you are a seasoned collector or seeking a definitive smoke for a milestone celebration, the Siglo VI offers a sophisticated, two-hour odyssey of flavor that remains the benchmark for luxury in the cigar world.
Box Features and Packaging Options
| Feature | Box of 25 | Box of 10 |
|---|---|---|
| Cigars per Box | 25 Hand-Rolled Habanos | 10 Hand-Rolled Habanos |
| Packaging Type | Varnished Boîte Nature (BN) Slide Lid Box | Varnished Boîte Nature (BN) Slide Lid Box |
| Ideal For | Long-term aging and serious collectors | Gifting and intermediate storage |
| Humidity Protection | Cedar lining for natural maturation | Cedar lining for natural maturation |
Cigar Specifications
| Vitola | Cañonazo / Robusto Extra |
| Length | 150 mm / 5.9 inches |
| Ring Gauge | 52 |
| Wrapper | Cuban (Vuelta Abajo) |
| Binder | Cuban (Vuelta Abajo) |
| Filler | Cuban (Proprietary Cohiba Blend) |
| Strength | Medium to Full |
| Body | Full and Multi-layered |
| Smoking Time | 75 to 120 Minutes |
| Factory | El Laguito, Havana |
| Brand Owner | Habanos S.A. |
Brand Heritage
The story of the Cohiba Siglo VI is inextricably linked to the “Línea 1492” series, which was originally launched in 1992 to commemorate the 500th anniversary of Christopher Columbus’s arrival in the New World. While the first five Siglo cigars were released to immediate acclaim, it wasn’t until 2002—the tenth anniversary of the series—that the Siglo VI was introduced. This release was a pivotal moment for Cohiba, as it introduced a thicker, more modern format that catered to the evolving preferences of global aficionados who sought a longer, more immersive smoking experience.
The prestige of the Siglo VI is further elevated by its birthplace: the El Laguito factory. Originally a secret mansion used for rolling cigars exclusively for Fidel Castro and visiting diplomats, El Laguito remains the most exclusive cigar factory in Cuba. Here, only the top-tier torcedores (rollers) are permitted to handle the Cohiba leaf. What truly sets this brand apart is the third fermentation of the Seco and Ligero leaves in wooden barrels. This unique process removes impurities and harshness, resulting in the silky, “creamy” texture that has become the hallmark of the Siglo VI.
As the first cigar in the Siglo series to debut the updated D-style band, the Siglo VI bridged the gap between traditional Cuban heritage and contemporary luxury. It is not merely a cigar; it is a cultural icon that has consistently secured its place at the top of “Cigar of the Year” lists and remains a high-demand investment piece for collectors from London to Hong Kong. To hold a Siglo VI is to hold a piece of Habanos history.
Tasting Profile
First Third – The Opening
Upon lighting, the Siglo VI greets the palate with a sophisticated burst of white pepper and smooth leather. Unlike many other cigars that start with a heavy spice, the Siglo VI maintains an elegant restraint. The initial draw is often slightly resistant, characteristic of a well-packed Cañonazo, but it soon opens up to reveal warm, soft tones of cedar and earth. A distinctive creamy vanilla sweetness begins to coat the tongue, providing a luxurious mouthfeel that balances the spice. As the first third progresses, subtle hints of cinnamon and toasted nuts emerge, setting a complex foundation for the smoke ahead.
Second Third – The Heart
In the second third, the cigar truly finds its stride as the flavors intensify and meld seamlessly. The spicy pepper notes become more pronounced but never overwhelming, shifting from a white pepper to a more robust black pepper profile. The “core” of the Siglo VI reveals itself here: a powerful combination of roasted coffee beans and rich leather. A honey-like sweetness weaves through the smoke, acting as a bridge between the earthy undertones and the rising nutty and bready flavors. This is the stage where the medium-to-full body is most apparent, providing a dense, aromatic smoke that lingers beautifully on the finish.
Final Third – The Crescendo
The final act of the Siglo VI is a bold transition toward cedar-forward dominance. The earlier sweetness begins to recede, making way for more intense, savory notes. While some tannic characteristics may appear—especially in younger sticks—they typically manifest as a pleasant “grip” on the palate rather than bitterness. The profile remains remarkably clean, with dark mocha and grass notes adding layers of depth. The construction ensures that the smoke remains cool even as it nears the nub, allowing the smoker to enjoy the complex spice and earth until the very end.
Finish
The finish of the Cohiba Siglo VI is exceptionally long and rewarding. It leaves a persistent aftertaste of buttery cream and toasted tobacco, with a final whisper of citrus zest that cleanses the palate. It is a clean, refined conclusion that invites reflection on the two-hour journey just completed.
Flavor Wheel
| Primary Notes | Creamy Vanilla, Cedar, White Pepper |
| Secondary Notes | Roasted Coffee, Honey, Toasted Almonds |
| Tertiary Notes | Leather, Hay, Dried Grass, Cinnamon |
| Finish | Long, Buttery, Mocha, Citrus Zest |
| Aroma | Rich Cocoa, Earthy Barnyard, Sweet Spice |
Aging and Collector Value
The Cohiba Siglo VI is widely regarded as one of the best-aging cigars in the Habanos portfolio. While it is undeniably impressive when smoked “fresh” (within 1-2 years of the box date), it reaches its zenith after 5 to 10 years of careful maturation. During this time, the initial white pepper notes mellow, and the tannic edges of the final third transform into a smooth, chocolatey richness. The honey and vanilla notes tend to integrate more deeply with the cedar, creating a “vintage” profile that is highly sought after at international auctions.
For collectors, the Siglo VI is a blue-chip investment. To ensure optimal aging, these cigars should be kept in a high-quality humidor at a constant 65-70% humidity and a temperature of 18-20°C (64-68°F). Because the Siglo VI is a thick-gauge cigar, it is particularly sensitive to fluctuations in moisture; proper storage preserves the integrity of the wrapper and prevents the “canoeing” that can occur with poorly maintained tobacco. Storing them in their original varnished cedar boxes further enhances the development of their aromatic oils over time.
Perfect Pairings
| Beverage | Why It Works |
|---|---|
| Aged Cuban Rum | The molasses sweetness of an 11+ year rum perfectly complements the honey and vanilla in the cigar. |
| Single Barrel Bourbon | The oak and caramel notes of bourbon enhance the Siglo VI’s cedar and leather profile. |
| Peated Scotch Whisky | The smoky, earthy notes of an Islay malt provide a bold contrast to the cigar’s creamy texture. |
| Dark Stout or Porter | Rich, chocolatey beers mirror the mocha and roasted coffee notes found in the second third. |
| Double Espresso | A classic pairing; the intensity of the coffee amplifies the cigar’s natural bean and earth flavors. |
| Cognac (XO) | The dried fruit and floral notes of a premium Cognac elevate the Siglo VI’s complexity. |
Authenticity Verification
As one of the most prestigious cigars in the world, the Cohiba Siglo VI is a frequent target for counterfeiters. We provide 100% guaranteed authenticity with every box, verified through several layers of security.
- Habanos Holographic Seal – Each box features the official Habanos warranty seal with a unique barcode and a holographic image that shifts under light to reveal the Habanos logo.
- Box Code Verification – Every box is stamped with a factory code and a production date. This code can be verified through the official Habanos S.A. authenticity portal.
- Factory Stamp – Look for the “Totalmente a Mano” (Totally by Hand) and “Hecho en Cuba” stamps on the bottom of the box, applied with high-precision heat stamping.
- Triple Cap – A hallmark of El Laguito craftsmanship, the Siglo VI features a perfectly applied triple cap, a technique that requires immense skill to execute on a 52 ring gauge.
Our Guarantee: If any cigar fails Habanos verification, we provide a full refund. Trusted by collectors since 2015, we source our stock exclusively from authorized distributors.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a Cohiba Siglo VI take to smoke?
The Siglo VI is a substantial cigar with a 150mm length and 52 ring gauge. Depending on your pace, you should set aside between 75 minutes and 2 hours for a full experience. Smoking it too quickly can cause the cigar to overheat, masking the delicate creamy and floral notes.
What makes the Siglo VI different from other Siglo cigars?
The Siglo VI is the thickest and most robust cigar in the Siglo line. While the Siglo I through V follow more traditional, slender formats, the Siglo VI (the Cañonazo) was designed for a more modern, high-volume smoke. It is also noted for being more peppery than its smaller siblings, offering a higher intensity of flavor.
Is the Siglo VI suitable for beginners?
While the Siglo VI is incredibly smooth due to the third fermentation process, its medium-to-full strength and long smoking time may be overwhelming for a complete novice. It is generally recommended for those who have some experience with Cuban cigars and can appreciate the subtle transitions in flavor.
Why is the Siglo VI considered an “investment” cigar?
Due to its iconic status and the limited production capacity of the El Laguito factory, the demand for Siglo VI consistently outstrips supply. Historically, the value of well-aged, authenticated boxes has appreciated significantly, making it a favorite for those looking to build a valuable cigar portfolio.
