Fair warning: if you're new to Cuban cigars, this page isn't for you. Bookmark it, come back in a year after you've worked through some Montecristos and H. Upmanns. Because Bolivar doesn't play nice. Named after Simón Bolívar—the revolutionary who liberated half of South America from Spanish rule—this brand hits like its namesake: relentless, uncompromising, and impossible to ignore.
I handed a Bolivar Belicosos Finos to a cigar shop owner once, a guy who'd been smoking for thirty years. Ten minutes in, he was wide-eyed. "This thing is attacking me," he said. He meant it as a compliment. That's Bolivar. The strongest regular production cigars in the Cuban portfolio. Not the most expensive, not the most exclusive—just the most powerful. If you want a cigar that demands your full attention and rewards it with complexity you'll remember for days, keep reading.
Complete Guide to Bolivar Product Lines
Belicosos Finos - The Legend
The Belicosos Finos is arguably the most famous Bolivar and one of the most respected torpedoes in the Cuban catalogue. At 5.5" x 52, it concentrates all of Bolivar's intensity into a perfectly tapered format.
- Bolivar Belicosos Finos - 5.5" x 52. The torpedo that put Bolivar on the map. Intense, complex, legendary.
- Bolivar Belicosos Finos Cabinet - Cabinet selection for serious collectors.
- Belicosos Finos Reserva Cosecha 2016 - Ultra-premium aged tobacco selection.
Royal Coronas
A robusto that delivers full Bolivar power in a classic 50 ring gauge format.
- Bolivar Royal Coronas - 4.9" x 50. Full-bodied robusto, no compromises.
- Royal Corona Tubos (10) - Protected in aluminum tubes.
Classic Line
Traditional vitolas that showcase Bolivar's heritage of power.
- Bolivar Coronas - 5.5" x 42. Classic corona with full-bodied character.
- Bolivar Petit Corona - 5" x 42. Shorter but equally intense.
- Bolivar Corona Extra - Slightly larger corona format.
- Bolivar Lonsdales - 6.5" x 42. Extended elegance with power.
Large Formats
For those who want extended sessions of pure Bolivar intensity.
- Bolivar Coronas Gigantes - 7" x 47. The churchill format with Bolivar character.
- Bolivar Supremas Churchills - Large format for serious smokers.
- Bolivar Churchill - 7" x 47. Classic churchill vitola.
- Bolivar Double Corona Regional Edition - Rare regional release.
Libertadores - The Grand Format
Named after the "liberator" title given to Simón Bolívar himself, these are statement cigars.
- Bolivar Libertadores - 6.3" x 52. Full power in grand format.
- Libertadores "Casa del Habano" - LCDH exclusive presentation.
Special Presentations
- Bolivar Tesoros (10) - "Treasures" in special presentation.
- Bolivar Gold Medal LCDH - Award-winning La Casa del Habano exclusive.
Bolivar Size and Strength Comparison
| Vitola | Line | Size | Strength |
|---|---|---|---|
| Petit Corona | Classic | 5" x 42 | Full |
| Coronas | Classic | 5.5" x 42 | Full |
| Royal Coronas | Robusto | 4.9" x 50 | Full |
| Belicosos Finos | Premium | 5.5" x 52 | Full |
| Libertadores | Grand | 6.3" x 52 | Full |
| Coronas Gigantes | Churchill | 7" x 47 | Full |
| Gran Reserva | Special | 5.5" x 52 | Full+ |
Bolivar Flavor Profile and Tasting Notes
Bolivar doesn't ease you in—it announces itself immediately and never lets up. This is the cigar for smokers who find other Cuban brands too gentle. The ligero-forward blend creates a smoking experience unlike anything else in the Habanos portfolio.
Primary Flavor Notes
- Black pepper and spice - Immediate, persistent, unapologetic from first light.
- Earth and minerals - Deep, rich terroir character that defines every puff.
- Dark chocolate - Bittersweet cocoa intensity.
- Leather - Aged, rich leather throughout.
- Coffee - Dark espresso, nothing delicate.
- Wood and char - Toasted oak and campfire notes.
What Sets Bolivar Apart
- Highest ligero content in the Cuban portfolio
- Immediate power from the first puff—no warm-up needed
- Complexity that reveals layers as you smoke
- A finish that lingers for hours
- Not recommended on an empty stomach
How to Identify Authentic Bolivar Cigars
Bolivar is counterfeited less than some brands, but vigilance is still essential:
The Bolivar Band
- Portrait of Simón Bolívar - Clear, detailed image of the revolutionary
- Gold and black coloring - Consistent, sharp contrast
- "Habana" text - Clearly legible beneath the portrait
- Embossed elements - Raised text and borders
The Box
- Official Habanos hologram seal
- Factory code on bottom
- Date code in Cuban format
- Serial number verification
Best Drink Pairings for Bolivar Cigars
Bolivar needs drinks that won't be overwhelmed by its power:
- Peated Scotch - Islay malts like Ardbeg or Laphroaig stand up to the intensity.
- Aged rum (15+ years) - Only heavily aged rum has the depth to match.
- Straight bourbon - High-proof Kentucky bourbon complements the pepper.
- Espresso or ristretto - Strong coffee for a strong cigar.
- Aged port (Vintage) - The sweetness balances the power.
- Water - Sometimes the best pairing is to let Bolivar speak for itself.
Bolivar Storage and Aging Recommendations
Bolivar cigars transform dramatically with age—the power remains, but complexity deepens:
- Humidity - 65-68% RH. Keep these on the drier side for optimal burn.
- Temperature - 65-70°F (18-21°C).
- Aging potential - Belicosos Finos at 5+ years is sublime. The Gran Reserva can age 20+ years.
- Resting period - Give shipped Bolivars at least 3-4 weeks. They're temperamental travelers.
Bolivar Limited Editions and Collectibles
Bolivar's limited editions are among the most sought-after by power-cigar enthusiasts:
- Belicosos Finos Reserva Cosecha 2016 - Ultra-premium aged release.
- Super Coronas 2014 - Special limited edition format.
- Petit Belicosos 2009 Limited Edition - Shorter torpedo LE.
- Double Corona Regional Edition - Rare regional release.
- Gold Medal LCDH Edition - Award-winning exclusive.
Frequently Asked Questions About Bolivar
Is Bolivar really the strongest Cuban cigar?
In the regular production portfolio, yes. Bolivar consistently delivers more immediate power than any other Cuban brand. The blend is ligero-forward (the strongest priming of tobacco leaf), and the effect is unmistakable from the first puff. Some limited editions from other brands may match it, but for regular production, Bolivar stands alone.
Can beginners smoke Bolivar?
Technically, yes. Should they? Probably not. Bolivar can overwhelm inexperienced palates and cause nicotine discomfort. Start with milder brands, build your tolerance and palate, then graduate to Bolivar when you're ready. The Petit Corona is the most approachable entry point if you insist.
How does Bolivar compare to Partagas?
Both are full-bodied, but they hit differently. Partagas is powerful with earth and sophistication; Bolivar is more aggressive, spicier, and hits harder immediately. If Partagas Serie D No. 4 is a heavyweight boxer, Bolivar Belicosos Finos is a street fighter. Both formidable.
Why is the Belicosos Finos so famous?
The Belicosos Finos is considered one of the finest torpedoes ever made. The tapered shape concentrates flavors, the 52 ring gauge provides ideal smoke volume, and the full Bolivar power is perfectly delivered. It consistently rates among the top Cuban cigars in blind tastings.
Should I eat before smoking Bolivar?
Yes. Always. Bolivar's nicotine content is substantial, and smoking on an empty stomach can cause discomfort. Have a meal, stay hydrated, and give yourself time to enjoy the experience without rushing.
How long should I age Bolivar?
Fresh Bolivars are intense but can be rough around the edges. With 3-5 years of aging, the harshness mellows while the complexity expands. At 10+ years, Belicosos Finos becomes something transcendent—still powerful, but with layers of flavor that reward patient smokers.