Until the summer of 2003, it seemed as if Cuba was going to completely ignore the fat cigar trend. Then Habanos S.A. introduced the Cohiba Siglo VI in the United Kingdom. Dubbed the cañonazo, or "cannon shot," in Cuban cigar factories, the cigar was a new size for Cuba, just under 6 inches long and an impressive 50 ring gauge. The cigar (which also comes in an extraordinary colorful aluminum tube, for an even higher price) brims with strong and intense flavors, loaded with notes of leather and coffee. It's a full-bodied smoke not meant for an inexperienced palate. Cuba tried to replicate its success the following year when it introduced the Montecristo Edmundo, a bit shorter and slightly fatter than the Siglo VI, but it failed to live up to the high standards set by the Cohiba. The Siglo is the best of modern-day Cuban cigars.