Stogie Reviews: Oliva Connecticut Reserve Lonsdale

17 May 2010

When I think of tasty, consistent, well-constructed cigars that don’t break the bank, a few choice brands come to mind. Oliva is always near the top of the list.

Oliva Connecticut Reserve Lonsdale The Oliva Cigar Co. has only been around for about 15 years but, in that relatively short time, it has built a well-deserved reputation for quality and affordability. The brand’s foundation consists of blends like the Habano-wrapped Serie V and the Cameroon-wrapped Serie G—two highly-rated cigars that can be found for under $5 apiece. The Serie V Maduro Especial, although more expensive, is another fine specimen from this decorated Nicaraguan manufacturer.

Last year, Oliva diversified its portfolio by launching Connecticut Reserve. This mild-mannered blend was introduced at the International Premium Cigar & Pipe Retailers (IPCPR) Trade Show in August. It comes in five sizes: Churchill (7 x 50), Lonsdale (6.5 x 44), Robusto (5 x 50), Toro (6 x 50), and Torpedo (6.5 x 52).

I recently purchased a five-pack of Lonsdales for $22. With a golden Ecuadorian Connecticut wrapper, a pre-light aroma of sweet hay, and a firm feel from head to foot, this slender vitola makes a great first impression.

The cigar’s cap clips neatly to reveal a clear draw with just a bit of resistance. Then, once lit, the initial taste is of spicy oak and creamy almond. The Nicaraguan binder and filler tobaccos combine to make the first third bolder than expected.

At the halfway mark of this 80-minute smoke, the medium-bodied flavor settles into the mild spectrum. But, even as smooth cream becomes the dominant texture, the finish remains peppery and sweet—an appealing interplay from light to nub.

Remarkable the Connecticut Reserve Lonsdale is not. I can’t see myself reaching for this cigar if I’m in the mood to celebrate. It simply doesn’t have the complexity of fine tobacco that has been aged to perfection. And its definable flavors can be found in many other Connecticut-wrapped smokes on the market (i.e., the Camacho Connecticut).

That said, the consistency and construction this new Oliva offers—including a solid gray ash and a set-it-and-forget-it burn line—can rarely be found for such an affordable price. I’m happy to keep a handful of these in stock as morning or mid-afternoon cigars to pair with coffee. That justifies a respectable rating of three and a half stogies out of five.