Oliva Serie V Melanio Figurado 2016 (FRCA25)

[David88]

After reading the thread on aging potential of Non Cuban cigars, I thought I would light this one up and give it some thought. This is the oldest NC cigar in my stash. It’s not extensively aged but was purchased in July 2016, so around 9 years of age now.

Pre-light: it’s a well constructed and good looking cigar. It feels firm and the draw is good - while I often find plugged or ridiculously tight Cuban cigars, my main complaint about NC cigars is wind tunnel draws, which thankfully this is not and I have not found in any from this box. There’s a slight leather aroma at cold but mostly just rich tobacco. Paired with a black coffee and some water. 

First third: quite a mild opening. Strength is well below medium but there is some flavour. Bread/toast and some slight saltiness on the retrohale. 

Second third: the strength picks up to medium. The toast flavour picks up and some nutty flavours come in. My palate isn’t refined enough to be more specific but it’s quite pleasant. The burn is crisp throughout and didn’t require any adjustments. 

Final third: no real change in strength but the toast notes have evolved into more pepper and dry cocoa. The saltiness from the first third has dropped off but it’s overall a very pleasant smoke. 

Overall: 7/10 - above average. I’ve had far worse NC and Cuban cigars and would be more than happy to be offered one of these again. 

Aging potential? I feel like these have had long enough rest to get an idea of their aging potential. They are still smoking well and the time down hasn’t killed them off. I feel as though they have lost some of their vibrancy and some of the flavours seem more muted compared to their first few years. While I find aging Cuban cigars will help develop consistency in a cigar or round out some of the rougher edges, I don’t think these cigars had any that to begin with and were ‘ready to smoke’ from the get go. 

[WestCoastSmokin]

Personally I believe that’s the attraction that NC have, they are ready to smoke from the get go. It’s always what I hear when people defend smoking NC over CC. But personally I love being able to age a CC and over time try them as they age and possibly get a different taste every time. Great review, the Oliva Serie V Melanio is one of my favorite NC and personally I love smoking them right away.