Cohiba Maduro 5 Genios

The Maduro 5 line, launched in 2007, is Cohiba's only Cuban maduro release — unusual for a brand built on its natural-wrapped classics. The "5" refers to the five years the dark, naturally fermented wrapper is aged, and the Genios is the biggest of the three sizes: a robusto extra at 52 ring gauge.

What it tastes like

The maduro wrapper adds a darker, sweeter top layer to Cohiba's familiar Havana core. Expect cocoa, coffee, and cedar, joined by dark-fruit notes and a sweet spice from the aged wrapper. It's medium-to-full, rich, and smoother than its color suggests — a different mood from the standard green-banded Cohibas, but still unmistakably the brand.

Who it's for

A treat for experienced smokers who love maduro and want to taste Cuba's take on it. Pair it with an espresso, an aged rum, or a port. If you're new to dark wrappers and how they differ from pale Connecticut leaf, see our Maduro vs Connecticut comparison.

Cohiba is heavily counterfeited, so buy from a reputable source and keep it humidified. When a maduro really sings, note it in your humidor with the Casa DNC app.