Tyler E.

Oliva - Serie V Double Robusto
A Very Good Cigar 91/100
Initial Thoughts: The construction is well done with no inconsistencies the smell is of a medium-full bodied cigar and with the cold draw notes of earthy slightly musty, leather, and pepper hit my palate. First Third Profile: Rich oily notes of leather and cedar with an undercurrent of peppery spice. My first thought was delicious. With retrohale there is this delectable oily quality that you would get from eating the fatty piece of a good steak with the prominent note being a rich leather. This cigar starts out with strong flavors. As the first third progresses the creamy nutty flavors begin to emerge which balances well with the peppery undertones. With each puff you are left with a slight oily and leather coating in your mouth that is quite delightful. The ash is developing well with a white grey hue and is holding its shape. It required one little touch up to continue to burn evenly. Second Third Profile The creamy nuttiness with peppery undertones has become the main flavor as it transitions into the second third and the leather notes take a backseat; but again that oily goodness continues on. I must note that there is a nice oily sheen on the parts of the cigar that have heated up. Last Third Profile: Transitioning into the final third I get the usual rounding out to the flavors of the first third with the earthy musty and leather notes beginning to come back. The product wrapper came off well without taking off any of the cigar wrapper. I did need to touch up the burn line again. The cigar comes in with a nice landing, and I get a similar experience as that of my first few puffs. This is a very nice flavorful cigar and I had good experience with the Serie V. Final notes: A cool burn however it did burn semi-inconsistently with quite a bit of waves around the burn line. I did need to touch up twice and I ashed the cigar twice. I was surprised with the burn given that there are a limited number of rollers, who can make the Serie V and they are paid salary, unlike the other rollers. Perhaps my roller had an off day. If I was to pair this with a drink, I would recommend a lightly peated scotch, a bourbon with strong notes of vanilla or caramel, or a more full-bodied rum to complement the Serie V. Overall, I would highly recommend the cigar to anyone who enjoys a medium to full bodied cigar. Summary Key Flavors: Oily leather, creamy nuttiness, with cedar and pepper. Burn: Fair- Inconsistent. I expected more from a $10 cigar. Draw: Excellent Complexity: Moderate Strength: Medium-Full Body: Medium-Full Finish: Excellent

Arango - Balkan Supreme
Well Balanced
I thoroughly enjoy GL Pease Chelsea Morning and this blend is a toned down version that is great for those long books on the back patio