When Habanos unveiled its 2017 Limited Edition lineup, the Cohiba Talismán instantly became the most eagerly awaited addition among collectors and connoisseurs. This vitola marked the debut of a completely new size within the Cuban cigar universe, offering a fresh smoking experience that blended Cohiba’s legendary elegance with an innovative dimension. Its limited nature and the story behind its creation have cemented its status as a sought‑after gem in the world of premium cigars.
Genesis of a New Format
The Talismán began its journey under a different internal designation: the factory originally called it “Cañonazo Doble.” By the time production wrapped up and the cigars reached retailers in November 2017, the name had been officially updated to “Sublimes No. 1,” a vitola that would remain exclusive to this Limited Edition release. In 2019, Habanos released a second batch of roughly 200,000 cigars, crafted from the same harvest used for the inaugural run, thereby preserving the flavor continuity that aficionados prize in a limited‑production cigar.
Technical Specifications
- Length: 154 mm (approximately 6 ⅛ inches)
- Ring gauge: 54
- Weight: 15.64 g
- Construction: Entirely handmade
- Factory name: Sublimes No. 1
- Release year: 2017 (first batch), with a second release in 2019
- Packaging: Varnished slide‑lid boxes holding 10 cigars each
Sensory Experience
The Talismán has earned a reputation for its refined character, achieving an overall rating of 4 out of 5 across a panel of professional assessments. Reviewers consistently highlight its elegance and balance, each scoring 4 out of 5, while noting a moderate strength level of 3. Complexity rates high at 4, and the aftertaste is rated at 3, indicating a smooth finish that lingers without overpowering.
The flavor journey unfolds in layered notes:
- Cream dominates the profile, appearing most frequently in tasting notes.
- Rich undertones of anise, butter, citrus, coffee, honey, and mocha weave throughout, providing a robust yet harmonious backbone.
- A moderate presence of pepper adds a subtle spice that punctuates the sweeter elements.
- Delicate hints of baking spice, cedar, chocolate, salt, and additional spice linger in the background, offering a complex aftertaste.
Together, these notes embody the signature Cohiba character—a blend that balances creamy sweetness with gentle spice and a refined, aromatic finish.
Craftsmanship and Presentation
Each Talismán is meticulously handcrafted by Cuba’s most skilled torcedors, reflecting the pinnacle of Habanos’ artisanship. The cigar bears Cohiba’s classic Standard Band E, complemented by a secondary band that proudly announces its status as a 2017 Limited Edition. This dual‑band design not only distinguishes the vitola from standard Cohiba releases but also signals its inclusion in Habanos’ prestigious annual limited‑release program.
Presentation matches the cigar’s elite positioning: the Talismán is housed in a varnished slide‑lid box containing ten units. This packaging style, synonymous with premium releases, enhances both protection and visual appeal, making it an attractive option for collectors seeking a combination of visual elegance and smoking excellence.
In summary, the Cohiba Talismán Limited Edition stands as a landmark vitola that marries innovative dimensions with the timeless elegance of Cohiba. Its unique size, carefully curated flavor profile, and refined presentation make it a treasured addition to any humidor, while its limited availability ensures it remains a prized piece for years to come.
