I picked up a box of these about a month ago and tried the first today.
Wrapper: Ecuadorian Habano
Binder and Filler: Nicaragua
Size: 6 3/4 x 48
Vitola: Diadema
Cost: 76.95 for a box of 10
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The diadema shape is nice - the tapered foot makes for a very easy light and the tapered head lets you choose your ring gauge. Given the length of this smoke though you probably should not go too small or you'll get buildup.
The draw started off a bit constricted but opened up just right once I got past the tapered foot. The burn was straight and problem-free throughout.
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A brief period of peppery flavor at the beginning changed to a woody/leather and slightly spiced flavor as the cigar progressed. The woody flavor was occasionally almost hay like. At times I also got some nice sweetness.
This smoke lasted me almost two hours and remained cool and flavorful right to the nub.
I'm a big Oliva fan. I expected to enjoy this and I did. Very much. At med-full it's a bit milder in body than the V and has a milder flavor as well. Definitely more nuanced and varied in taste than the fairly straightforward (IMO) serie O. A very satisfying cigar that did not get boring for me. At < $8 and almost two hours of enjoyment I think the price is reasonable. In my experience Olivas are a cigar that does age well so I'm hoping these will get even better. I normally try not to chase limited edition/special release cigars but if you get a chance to try one of these I highly recommend it.
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