Name: Oliva Serie V Belicoso
Brand: Oliva
Origin: Nicaragua
Wrapper: Ecuadorian Habano Sun Grown
Binder: Nicaraguan
Filler: Nicaraguan (including Ligero from the Jalapa Valley)
Size & Shape: 5" × 54 (Belicoso)
Strength: Medium-Full
Flavor Profile
First Third: Opens with bold coffee and dark chocolate notes layered over smooth cedar and subtle pepper.
Mid-Smoke: Transitions into creamy espresso, roasted nuts and a lush leather-tinged core structure.
Final Third: Finishes with rich cocoa, warm oak, black pepper and a lingering sweet spice for balance.
Construction & Burn
Hand-rolled with a high-priming Ecuadorian Habano Sun Grown wrapper, this Belicoso vitola delivers tight, precise construction. The draw remains focused thanks to the tapered head and 54-ring gauge, delivering a premium experience with a steady burn and firm ash.
Story & Accolades
The Serie V line represents Oliva’s flagship full-bodied offering, with the Belicoso size earning a 95-point rating and the #3 Cigar of the Year accolade in 2017 from Cigar Aficionado. The blend emphasises Nicaraguan Ligero long-fillers and a high-quality wrapper to deliver power and refinement.
Pairing Suggestions
Beer: Imperial stout or smoked porter — the heavy malt and roast mirror the cigar’s bold coffee and chocolate tones.
Wine: Cabernet Sauvignon or Rioja Gran Reserva — rich tannins and dark fruit support the cigar’s complex depth.
Spirits: Single-malt Scotch (12–15 yrs) or rum aged 8–12 years — the smoky or caramel-sweet profiles enhance the cigar’s layered flavor.
Overall Impression
The Oliva Serie V Belicoso is a standout for aficionados seeking a compact but powerful full-bodied smoke. With premium Nicaraguan fillers, a refined Habano SunGrown wrapper, and a tapering Belicoso format, it brings major flavor intensity and complexity in a shorter session. Ideal for those who appreciate elegance and strength in one package.
