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An all-time HSS favorite deserves all the positive reviews and accolades it receives
Whenever I see an Oliva Serie V Melanio box in a walk-in humidor, I’m always tempted. Doesn’t matter the size, though I do prefer robustos, there is always something calling me towards it. Sometimes I give in and sometimes I tell myself that I need to expand my horizons. This is what I call a “comfort cigar” – something that will please every time and never fail you. I’m not the only one who thinks this line is superb.
In 2016, this exact stick was awarded the #8 spot in Cigar Aficionado’s Top 25 2016 Cigars of the Year. This robusto is gorgeous, in the way it feels, looks and tastes. And this isn’t the only time the Serie V Melanio has been featured in the Top 25. Winning Cigar of the Year in 2014, the figurado vitola was a force to be reckoned with. That is why these slightly box pressed sticks are hallmarks for any personal humidor.
Part 1: General Information
Oliva Serie V Melanio Robusto
Country: Nicaragua
Wrapper: Ecuador Sumatra
Binder: Nicaragua
Filler: Nicaragua
Vitola: Robusto (5 x 52)
Price: $8.25
Part 2: Analysis
Right off the bat the stick feels great in the hand. Not too sharp of a box press and not too firmly packed either. Into the initial draws and well into the first third this cigar is producing ample smoke and has notes of woody earth. Through the nose I get a bit of fruity and floral notes but this fades very quickly. Into the second third and the woody earth continues to pervade the palate but has a strong finish of pepper and a little spicy zest. Quite the transitional cigar!
To note, the first third and part of the second third started off much milder than the final third. The flavors in the final third are much more potent. The last few flavors I get as the cigar gets a bit warmer in the final third is black licorice and anise. To be honest, I have never been able to truly taste these flavors as vividly on the palate when smoking but this Oliva V makes it quite easy.
On the whole, the cigar burned evenly and beautifully. As stated earlier, it produced rich plumes of smoke which is something most cigar smokers find appealing. The construction is top notch making the whole experience very enjoyable and one to crave in the future.
Boldness: 4.5/5 | Strength: 4/5
This cigar takes roughly 45-60 minutes to smoke and is a definitely an everyday smoke as the price point is just right. Though I drank Perrier with this smoke, I would highly recommend a single malt whisky such as a Macallan 16. This cigar is a great choice for a beginner to intermediate smoker as the flavors are easily discernible and delectable without a killer nicotine punch.
Part 3: Verdict
Overall, I would give this cigar a 9.5/10. This is a solid cigar. Though I am a bit biased and a robusto fan, this cigar seems to wow me every time, no matter the vitola. From the construction to the flavor to the quantity of smoke, the Oliva Serie V Melanio robusto will always be stocked in my desktop humidor.
Thanks for reading.
Stylishly Yours,
Christopher Benedetto
He Spoke Style
