Laguito No.1
The Laguito No.1 is an elegant, slender vitola de galera—the factory classification that dictates a cigar's precise shape and dimensions—commonly known in consumer terms as a long panetela. Measuring 192 mm in length with a narrow 38 ring gauge, it is a parejo format that demands exceptional skill from the torcedor. This slender profile concentrates the wrapper leaf's influence, offering an intense and focused expression of a house blend.
Cohiba Lanceros, rolled in the Laguito No.1 size
Dimensions and specifications
While the vitola de salida (the commercial name printed on the box) varies by house, the underlying factory specification remains absolute. The Laguito No.1 is defined by its length and narrow girth, resulting in an elongated parejo (straight-sided) shape finished with a distinctive pigtail cap on classic examples.
Vitola de Galera — Detail: Laguito No.1
Common Name — Detail: Long Panetela
Ring Gauge — Detail: 38
Length (mm) — Detail: 192 mm
Length (inches) — Detail: 7.56 inches
Shape — Detail: Parejo
Typical Smoking Time — Detail: 90–105 minutes
Which houses roll the Laguito No.1?
The format is inextricably linked to the founding of Cohiba, having been created in 1964 as the Cohiba Lanceros, initially rolled exclusively for diplomatic gifts. It remains one of the most iconic cigars in the Habanos portfolio. In 1969, Montecristo adopted the size for the Montecristo Especial, offering a slightly different interpretation of the format. Today, these two regular production models are the only active examples of this exacting vitola.
How does the Laguito No.1 smoke?
The 38 ring gauge alters the ratio of filler to wrapper significantly compared to modern robustos. Smokers will find that the wrapper leaf dictates a larger portion of the flavour profile, often resulting in a more immediate, concentrated palate.
The draw can be firm, a characteristic of Cuban bunching in narrow ring gauges, requiring a slow, measured smoking cadence. Drawing too frequently will overheat the cherry, turning the smoke harsh and obscuring the nuanced blend.
Comparisons with similar formats
The Laguito No.1 sits at the extreme end of the slender formats. It is notably longer than its sibling, the Laguito No.2, which measures 152 mm by 38 ring gauge and is typified by the Cohiba Coronas Especiales. When compared to large formats like the Prominente (Double Corona), which shares a similar smoking duration, the Laguito No.1 provides a sharper, more linear flavour progression rather than the voluminous, cooler smoke of a 49 ring gauge.
Buying and ageing advice
When acquiring these slender formats, collectors should pay close attention to construction. A visual inspection of the wrapper should reveal a smooth application without prominent veins, as flaws are magnified on a thin cigar. Always verify the box code to confirm production dates, as the Laguito No.1 requires careful ageing.
Due to the concentration of the blend, we recommend laying these boxes down for at least five years in stable conditions before sampling. For those building a serious collection, English Market Selection (EMS) guarantees rigorous quality control prior to retail, ensuring the cigars have been inspected for draw and condition. Counterfeits of the Cohiba Lanceros are common; reviewing our authenticity guide is essential when sourcing outside established specialists.
At MokaCigar
Our humidor occasionally holds exceptional examples of the Laguito No.1, though production constraints mean allocations are limited. We carry the regular production Cohiba Lanceros, alongside vintage releases when available, such as the Cohiba Lanceros 2001, Cohiba Lanceros 2017, Cohiba Lanceros 2018, and the rare Cohiba Lanceros Hunters & Frankau House Reserve 2001/2021. For current availability across our catalogue, please check the Cohiba brand page.