Reviewed by Elliot Blum (June 2000)
Part of the mystique of the Cohiba line is its distinctive look, taste, and aroma. The Siglo III's that I received were perfect examples. The chestnut golden wrapped triplets measured an exact 6-1/8" with a 42 ring gauge. No blemishes, no veining, and a beautifully tipped triple cap hallmarks the impeccable craftsmanship of the cigar maker. To my delight, all three bands were loose indicating proper storage and sufficient aging. They were ready to be smoked.
I decided to start my Saturday morning with a fresh brewed cup of Jamaican Blue Mountain coffee and a Siglo III. The perfect time to savor the famed unique flavor of this Cohiba. From the start, the fresh taste of Spanish cedar filled my mouth with only a gentle pull. A perfect draw on a Corona Grande is a compliment to the skill of the torcedor. Even being outside, the redolence of the Siglo was quite discernible. Not strong, but gracefully filling the air with its pleasant woody aroma. As the smoking progressed, woody notes began to give way to a gentle spiciness that had definite undertones of coffee bean. This cigar was proving to be a perfect match with the subtle flavor of the Jamaican Blue Mountain coffee. A rich black ring preceded the gray black ash of the Siglo. This cigar was loaded with oil. Its black ash indicated that the tobacco was grown in the richest of soils with a high mineral content.
Normally, I smoke larger cigars, but to my pleasant surprise this cigar had complex and rich flavor. Even to the end, there was no hint of bitterness. The beauty of the artful roller was demonstrated in the draw and the consistent burning. The Corona Grande was a perfect size for a morning cigar and the Siglo III was a perfect compliment to the Blue Mountain coffee. Whether it be the triple fermenting, the secret blending, or the choice of the finest tobaccos in Cuba, the Siglo III is an outstanding cigar for those desiring a rich, medium smoke in the Corona Grande size.