Robustos

Robustos now account for over 15% of all cigar sales. Since the mid 1990’s it has grown to become the second most popular size or vitola in production.

We have entered the era of the big, short smoke. Gone are the days when one could afford to take two hours, following a business lunch, to consume a Double Corona. A new generation of younger cigar smokers have embraced shorter, fatter cigars to quench their appetite. The effect of a larger ring gauge in a smaller format has won over busy executives who seek the more immediate effect of the Robusto format.

Such is the demand for cigars in this category that larger Robustos have subsequently evolved in the form of the awesome Cohiba Siglo V1, Trindad Robusto Extra and Montecristo Edmundo. Big is here to stay and manufacturers are now looking at even smaller, fatter cigars that can be consumed in a fraction of the time when the spatial restraints presented by various “Bans on Smoking” limit ones opportunity to light up in public across Europe.

Juan Lopez Selection No.2 Robusto, Cuba ( 4.78 inches / 124 mm x 50 ring gauge ). rrp £21.00

Given the quality of recent production here is a cigar to rival the classic Epicure No.2 or Series D4. Available in cabinets of 25 this subtle Cuban cigar offers a pleasing confection of taste and aroma without being overtly strong or overpowering. Fabulously fragrant with floral, woody overtones, its mellow leathery / earthy character offers just the right amount of strength and complexity to perk and satisfy the senses. Has become a personal favourite. Recommended !

El Rey de Mundo Choix Supreme, Cuba ( 5.18 inches / mm x 48 ring gauge ) rrp £19.00

When I first started smoking Havana cigars I cut my teeth on the Choix Supreme by El Rey de Mundo ! Admittedly it was the only robusto I could afford. But despite its representing excellent value for money its innate appeal has never diminished for it remains in my book one of the most approachable of Cuban cigars.

With a mild and fragrant character it is appropriate to smoke virtually anywhere and anytime. A woody, slightly sweet and herbaceous aroma proved easy on the senses. A sort of “no brainer “ – not demanding or over-powering in any way. Some people are of the opinion that the blend has become stronger in recent years but for me the Hermosos No.4 remains a classic.

Romeo Y Julieta Short Churchill, Cuba ( 4.78 inches /124 mm x 50 ring gauge ) rrp £22.0

Possibly inspired by the short-lived Flor de Cano Short Churchill this mild, fragrant and approachable cigar will prove to be a big hit with those who desire a Havana that isn’t too strong on the palate. The first true “Robusto” size for the brand. Boxes of 25 are preferable to the 10’s in terms of quality. Watch out for packs of three cigars in smart alluminium tubes. Destined to be popular.