Oliva Serie V Liga Especial Double Robusto

[Lou3]

I'm trying to smoke as many of Cigar Aficionado's 2008 Top 25 as I can find, and I came across #12, the Oliva Serie V Liga Especial Double Robusto. I don't know what's double about it, especially since it's a bit small for a robusto. It's a very nice smoke, though, and I recommend it.

The flavor is medium-full, leaning toward full. I tasted a creamy mix of leather, florals, and pepper. It's pretty strong, but just as a result of its flavors (I don't often find non-Cubans that are strong for the right reason, and this Oliva is a welcome exception). The finish is just as good. I'll go back and pick up a few more.

I wouldn't rate it as high as the Padron 1926, but I think it's worthy of it's place on the CA list.

[G-man]

Most Oliva cigars are a good price point for their place in the market. The Padron 1926 is not and never will be an everyday smoke for the blue collar worker! I agree it is a great smoke and deserves to be rated so high,but at $13.00 and up Id rater have a steak followed by a Don Pepin Blue lable.Then Id be only out 6 bucks. And if I smoked a Padron 2000 Maduro Id only be set back 5.

[Lou3]

Considering the price, I'd much rather have this Oliva than a 1926. In fact, there are many days that I'd take the Oliva over the 1926 if somebody were giving one to me. They're both so good in their own way that it would be more about my mood at the time.

[TJCoro]

Recommended by Senor Lou!

I wouldn't rate it as high as the Padron 1926, but I think it's worthy of it's place on the CA list.

Nice review, senor Lou,

Based on your write up, I will pick up a Oliva Serie V Liga Especial Double Robusto next time I'm in the market for a nice n/c to smoke.

BTW, are you smoking the top 25 in order or as you come across them? It would be interesting to hear your thoughts on the others that made CAs top 25. For the record, I often do not agree with the rankings, but at the same time I find them to be a good reference for trying a new stogie or puro.

But that's just me, TJ, TJCoro

[Lou3]

TJ, the only other one I tried was #10, the Ashton Heritage Puro Sol Robusto. I think the stick I got was stored badly, because the wrapper fell apart as I smoked it. I haven't gotten around to trying another. Actually, I forgot about it until your question reminded me. The place where I got the Oliva has excellent stock and storage, so I'll go there for another Ashton.

I'll post reviews of any cigars from the list as I try them, and I'll identify them as being from the list.

[matt257]

I've never had the Double Robusto but do really like the Serie V line. I think the Lancero is fantastic, and for the price, who can complain

[trader1974]

The Serie V is one of my favorite smokes!