About the Bolivar Gold Medal
The Bolivar Gold Medal carries one of the most storied names in the Habanos catalogue. Bolivar built its reputation on robust, full-bodied tobacco grown in the Vuelta Abajo region of Cuba, and this Cervantes-format Lonsdale is a faithful expression of that heritage. The release traces its roots to the pre-revolution era and was reinstated in 2007 as a La Casa del Habano edition before being discontinued in 2011, which gives surviving boxes a quiet collector appeal. Each cigar wears the brand’s signature golden foil over its upper half, a presentation that has long set the Gold Medal apart on the shelf.
Flavor profile by thirds
The opening third settles into classic Bolivar territory, with earthy tobacco at the core and a measured thread of spice that never overwhelms. Through the middle the cigar broadens, layering leather and cedar against softer notes of cocoa and a caramel sweetness that rounds out the palate. The final third is where the full body asserts itself, leaning nutty and rich with a lingering coffee character that holds steady to the band. It is a smoke that rewards an unhurried pace.
Pairings
- A robust black coffee or a shot of espresso, a natural match for the cigar’s earthy depth.
- An aged Cuban rum, whose molasses sweetness echoes the caramel and cocoa notes.
- A peaty single malt whisky for those who want to meet the full body head on.
Aging and storage
Bolivar tobacco is famous for holding its character over time, and the Gold Medal is no exception. Keep it in a seasoned humidor at roughly 65 to 70 percent relative humidity and a temperature near 18 to 20 degrees Celsius. With patience the spice mellows and the deeper leather and cocoa tones become more pronounced, so there is little reason to rush these. Given the limited supply, a stable environment protects both the smoke and its value.
Who it is for
This is a cigar for the experienced smoker who appreciates a powerful, traditional Cuban profile. The slim 42 ring gauge keeps the smoke concentrated rather than heavy, while the full strength demands a developed palate. Newcomers may find it intense, but devotees of Bolivar and lovers of full-bodied Habanos will recognise an old friend in every draw.
Frequently asked questions
What size is the Bolivar Gold Medal?
It is a Lonsdale in the Cervantes vitola, measuring 6.5 inches by a 42 ring gauge, equivalent to 165 mm by 16.67 mm.
How strong is this cigar?
It is full-bodied. Bolivar is regarded as one of the most powerful Habanos brands, so expect a rich and assertive smoke.
Is the Bolivar Gold Medal still in production?
No. It was a La Casa del Habano edition reinstated in 2007 and discontinued in 2011, which makes remaining stock increasingly sought after.
Explore more
Browse all Bolivar cigars, or try the Bolivar Coronas Gigantes and Bolivar Belicosos Finos Cabinet Box. Store yours in a seasoned humidor and see our guide on how long cigars last. Learn more from Wikipedia, the official Habanos S.A. site.