Cohiba Esplendidos

The Espléndidos is Cohiba's Churchill — a full seven inches — and arguably the brand's signature cigar. It's the one people picture when they think "Cohiba": a status symbol, a celebration smoke, and a genuinely excellent cigar that's been a flagship since the early 1980s.

What it tastes like

Give it the time it deserves and it unfolds beautifully over 90 minutes or more. Expect cedar, cocoa, and coffee, a creamy body, the trademark Cohiba honeyed sweetness, and a leathery depth that builds in the final third. It's medium-to-full and superbly balanced — refined rather than overpowering, even at this size.

Who it's for

This is a special-occasion cigar for aficionados and a bucket-list smoke for many. It's not one to rush or to light on an empty stomach. Pair it with an aged rum, a cognac, or even champagne. If you want to see how Cuba's elegance compares to bolder New World blends, read Cuban vs Nicaraguan.

Because it's so famous, it's also among the most-faked cigars anywhere — buy from a trusted source and store it carefully. When you smoke a truly great one, log it in your humidor with the Casa DNC app.