Expert: James Yee - 9/2/2008

Question
Hi, I have recently returned from a sailing trip in the BVI.  Whilst in transit from Antigua to Tortola I purchased a box of 25 Cohiba Esplendidos for $220.  They are presented in a black painted cedar case, with a top ctr stamped gold Cohiba logo.  

Several aspects both with the cigars themselves and the box lead me to believe they may be fakes.  Firstly that the 'Rebuplica de cuba' label was not stuck to the box, but was lose inside.  Secondly that the cigar bands, although orange in colour do not possess raised gold printing.  To add to this there is no date stamp on the underside of the box, the bottoms of the cigars are cut irregularly and the box hinges are not of the best quality.  Having smoked several already, I have found that the ash is quite powdery, and doesn't allow for a long burn before the ash tip collapses and I've found the burn to be quite irregular, often requiring relighting.

Having not purchased an Esplendidos at full market value (£29.50 GBP)before and smoked one for comparison I'm unable to say for certain whether these Antiguan purchaed cigars are fakes, although your response may confirm that I have bought 25 fireworks!

Answer
Hi Chris,

Based on your description, these Cohiba cigars are definitely counterfeit.  Cohiba is the iconic, flagship cigar brand for Cuba and there is a extremely high level of quality for genuine Cohiba cigars.  Bands are always embossed and applied perfectly.  Cohiba cigars are always uniform, equal lengths and well packaged.  Based on your description, it does not sound like they're genuine Cohibas.  The ash should also be firm, solid and capable of being 1 to 2 inches long before falling off by itself.  If your Cohiba's ash is crumbly, loose and powdery, it is a clear sign that the cigars have short filler tobacco instead of long filler tobacco.  This means that the cigars are counterfeit.  The description of the box and its markings is also a clear sign that it is fake.  

Because Cohiba is the most recognizable Cuban cigar brand in the world, it is also the most counterfeited Cuban cigar brand in the world and the Esplendido is the most counterfeited Cohiba cigar in the world.

Hopes this answers your question. As always, if you have anymore questions, please feel free to just ask.

Regards,
James