When was the Cohiba Espléndidos released?

The Cohiba Espléndidos was officially introduced to the market in 1989. It was launched as part of the new Linea 1492 series to commemorate the quincentenary of Columbus's discovery of the New World. This release solidified the brand's expansion beyond the original Lanceros, Coronas Especiales, and Panetelas formats. Since its debut, it has become a benchmark for the Churchill vitola in the Cuban cigar industry.

What are the flavor notes of a Cohiba Espléndidos?

This Churchill-sized cigar offers a complex medium-to-full bodied profile characterized by trademark grassy and bean flavors. Smokers can expect distinct notes of honey, vanilla, and dried fruit, underpinned by a base of cedar and spice. The construction typically provides a cool, even draw, allowing the nuanced transitions between creamy earthiness and the brand's characteristic grassy sweetness to develop throughout the long smoke.

What is the size and ring gauge of a Cohiba Espléndidos?

The Cohiba Espléndidos measures 178 mm (7.0 inches) in length with a 47 ring gauge, adhering to the standard Churchill format dimensions. This substantial size allows for a smoking duration of approximately 90 to 120 minutes. The vitola features a double cap and is hand-rolled using filler and binder leaves sourced exclusively from the Vuelta Abajo region, specifically selected for their premium fermentation qualities.

Cigar Information

Cohiba Espléndidos

Mateo AlcántaraStaff Writer

First rolled in 1989, the Cohiba Espléndidos offers smokers one of the most prestigious offerings representing the pinnacle of Cuban cigar craftsmanship. This distinguished vitola has earned its place among the most sought-after cigars for discerning aficionados worldwide, delivering the refined smoking experience that has become synonymous with the Cohiba name.

Vitola Specifications

Cigar Name	Espléndidos
Factory Name	Julieta No.2
Ring Gauge	47
Length	178 mm (7″)
Official Weight	15.07 g
Construction	Handmade
Status	Current Regular Production
Release Year	1989

Packaging and Presentation

The Espléndidos is presented with standard Cohiba bands B, C, D, and E. Collectors and enthusiasts can find this exceptional cigar in several packaging configurations:

Varnished boîte nature box containing 25 cigars (introduced approximately 2003)
Display box featuring 15 cigars arranged in 5 cardboard packs of 3 cigars each
Varnished semi boîte nature box of 25 cigars (discontinued around 2003)

Flavor Profile and Tasting Notes

Based on comprehensive reviews from 73 discerning smokers, the Cohiba Espléndidos has established an impressive reputation for its sophisticated flavor profile. The cigar achieves an outstanding overall rating of 4.59 out of 5, reflecting its consistent quality and appeal.

Elegance	4/5
Balance	4/5
Strength	3/5
Complexity	4/5
Aftertaste	4/5

The tasting experience reveals a harmonious blend of flavors that have been consistently identified by reviewers:

Primary Notes: Honey (26 mentions), Coffee (21 mentions), Butter (18 mentions)
Secondary Notes: Hay (17 mentions), Grass (16 mentions), Mocha (16 mentions), Vanilla (15 mentions)
Accent Notes: Citrus (6 mentions), Cream (4 mentions), Cedar (2 mentions), Nut (2 mentions), Spice (2 mentions), Cohiba character (2 mentions)
Subtle Nuances: Baking Spice, Cake, Custard, Earth, Floral, Mint, Orange, Pepper, Sugar Cookie, Sweetness, Tea, and Toast

Special Editions and Related Releases

The Espléndidos has been honored with several limited edition and special release presentations throughout its history:

Cohiba Espléndidos Siglo XXI Millennium Humidor
Cohiba Espléndidos Guayasamin I Humidor
Cohiba Espléndidos Guayasamin II Humidor
Cohiba Espléndidos 35 Aniversario Humidor
Cohiba Espléndidos 510 Aniversario Humidor
Cohiba Espléndidos Reserva Selección
Cohiba Espléndidos Gran Reserva Cosecha 2017

These special releases underscore the significance of the Espléndidos within the Cohiba brand and its enduring legacy in the world of premium Cuban cigars.

Questions & Answers