The Cohiba Red Dot Churchill sits at that sweet spot between approachable and sophisticated. Clocking in at 7"x49 ring gauge, this Dominican-made smoke comes in boxes of 25 for around $614. While it's got the iconic red dot branding, don't confuse this with Cuban Cohibas - the Red Dot series delivers its own distinct character with that oily Cameroon wrapper shining like a well-polished leather boot.
The initial draws serve up roasted almonds and cedar with a white pepper kick that tingles the nose. Smoke production stays moderate - enough to satisfy without fogging up the room. The ash holds tight for about an inch before dropping clean.
As the burn line crosses the band, expect baked earth notes and espresso bitterness cutting through the early sweetness. The caramelized sugar edge balances things out nicely, though some find the transition slightly abrupt compared to more gradual flavor shifts in Cuban counterparts.
The last act brings oak smoke and dark chocolate bitterness that cigar veterans crave. Tar buildup starts creeping in around the nub - decent construction keeps it smokeable till finger-burning territory if you're determined. Retrohale leaves a pleasant mineral tang.
Rolled in La Vega factory using Dominican Piloto Cubano filler leaves aged in Cibao Valley's volcanic soil. That signature Cameroon wrapper gets its sheen from African sun-grown techniques, while the Jember binder adds structural integrity without overpowering the blend.
