According to the Oliva Cigar website, “Serie O is a Nicaraguan Puro. Made in the original Cuban tradition of growing the same Habano seed in diverse regions of the country to produce a distinct blend. This blend was achieved by growing Habano in Esteli, Condega and Jalapa Valley.” It’s a cigar that goes way back with the original release featuring a cloth band and a box that resembled a toilet seat.
Cigar Review: Oliva Serie O
Wrapper: Nicaragua Sun Grown Habano
Binder: Nicaragua
Filler: Nicaragua
Length: 5″
Ring Gauge: 50
Size: Robusto
The Look: The Oliva Serie O now comes packaged in more of a traditional box compared to its early days. Available in 20 count boxes, the band is simple but a classic with the brand name easily visible and the letter O beneath it. The Sungrown wrapper has a nice even coloring to it. In the hand the cigar is firm with no soft spots and well packed foot.
The Notes: The cold draw has a sweet molasses taste with touches of earth, wheat and nuts. The aroma off the foot is less complex with hints of cedar and a subtle pepper. After toasting the cigar the first notes are a subtle cinnamon that quickly pulls back.
As we move into the first third of the robusto size cigar, the cinnamon is gone before we hit the first inch. The dominant notes are earth with touches of wheat and cedar. The cedar is especially noticeable on the aroma of the cigar and the retrohale offers hints of white pepper.
In the second third a sweetness begins to develop reminiscent of cocoa as the cedar and earth remain but slide into the background of the cigar. Around the halfway point espresso begins to develops and the retrohale of the cigar still offers an abundance of pepper. The aroma of the cigar has a cocoa feel to it which helps enhance the notes.
Closing things out the cedar is dominant with nuances of nuts and espresso. The retrohale of the cigar sees the nutty notes of the cigar enhanced and the lingering finish serves up dark chocolate and nuts.
The Finish: The Oliva Serie O has been a mainstay in the cigar industry for quite some time. It’s price point won’t break the bank and it’s flavors are quite enjoyable. Its and “O”outstanding cigar that is worthy of being a regular part of your rotation as it is ours.
Score: 92
Price: $6.69 / $110.99
Oliva Serie O Robusto
Oliva Serie O Robusto Foot
Oliva Serie O Robusto Burn
