I’m not sure about you, but I’ve been noticing a bit of a Robusto renaissance as of late. With cigar smoking being taken up with vigour by a new generation of aficionados, it seems that the Robusto format is a pretty solid go to. But why? Well for starters, time always seems to be fleeting for those on-the-go. As much as it would be wonderful to spend a few hours leisurely smoking a cigar, it’s not always that easy, nor possible. Robustos, due to the plethora of options available, range quite significantly in terms of price point, making them significantly more affordable compared to a larger format. The complexity of flavour profiles means they’re enjoyed by newcomers as well as hardened experts, too. Basically, it ticks all the boxes one could possibly hope for.
The Robusto format cigar measures in at 124mm by a 50 ring gauge, and typically caps at around a 45-minute smoke time. Although they are identical in size, don’t be tricked into believing that all Robustos are alike when it comes to strength and flavour profiles. In fact, what I love about this format in particular is that they go from incredibly light and easy to smoke, to being packed full of intensity, flavour and strength. From light, to medium, to full-bodied, below I’ve highlighted some essential Robusto cigars that every aficionado should try:
Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure No. 2
Arguably one of the most famous and popular, I’ve waxed lyrical about this cigar whenever the opportunity has allowed. An incredibly light cigar, it’s the perfect entry-level smoke whilst still retaining enough flavour to please long-time smokers. It’s a great option when you don’t know what you’re in the mood for, and suits all situations - be it a morning coffee, or with lunch, or post dinner. If you find yourself super strapped for time, however, the Petit Robusto is a good alternative.
A beautifully balanced Dominican Puros, when creating our debut cigar line, the Robusto format was a must-have. Medium-bodied, it is once again an all-rounder for any occasion. Rolled with the finest tobacco in the Dominican Republic, the wrapper, binder and filler leaves come from the most prestigious plantations in the Cibao Valley, a region known the world over for its exquisite tobacco.
Naturally, the world’s most famous Cuban cigar brand and Habanos flagship is a great choice when it comes to trying a Robusto cigar. Part of their Linea Clasica range, this particular Robusto was first released in 1989 (how wild that 1989 was thirty-four years ago?!) and has been an iconic cigar since. True to the Cohiba DNA, this cigar is medium- to full-bodied and delivers woody and spicy notes—making it an excellent blend and one of the most demanded Cubans in the world. Not too shabby.
Davidoff Millennium Blend Robusto Cigar
Another iconic name, and probably the most famous in the New World category, Davidoff are certainly no strangers to creating some of the greatest cigars ever made. With a higher percentage of Piloto tobacco, the Robusto is wrapped in a special 151 wrapper which is darker, stronger and layered, making the flavour profile particularly exquisite. If you are looking for a strong cigar to finish a rich meal, this’ll be the one. Whatever Cuba can do…
Going back to my point about the new gen of smokers taking the industry by storm, Montecristo decided to capitalise on this by creating the Open Master. Part of the Open Series, the blend within this cigar is lighter in flavour and significantly more casual, whilst retaining a certain complexity. Essentially, it’s great after a round of golf.
Ramon Allones Specially Selected Cigar
Moving into full body territory, as far as I’m concerned, Ramon Allones absolutely knocked this segment out the park. The Specially Selected is spectacularly made, and incredibly complex in flavour. It has strong notes of coffee and marzipan, whilst a citrus undertone cuts through, making it a truly delightful cigar. If I had to choose only one Robusto to smoke when I was able to savour the occasion, it would certainly be this.
I’d be remiss not to mention this cigar, for it’s a fan’s favourite, and has been for some time now. Everyone that I know that really enjoys this cigar, buys them by the box. It’s another full-bodied all-rounder and will bring smiles to the faces of all that get to enjoy them! Complex and powerful, it delivers earthy flavours that develop into a strong spice, complementing beautifully all throughout.
Romeo y Julieta Short Churchills Cigar
Ending on a high, and famous note, you would’ve undoubtedly come across Romeo y Julieta’s Churchills’ cigars at some point or another. This, the Short Churchills, was released in 2006 and has been popular ever since. Once again, it’s a full-bodied smoke in keeping with the brand’s identity, producing prominent notes of cedar and earth all the while wrapped in luscious, oily wrapper.