Description
A triumphant revival of one of the most iconic silhouettes in Habanos history, the Bolivar New Gold Medal is a masterpiece of Cuban craftsmanship designed exclusively for La Casa del Habano (LCDH). Draped in an opulent embossed gold foil that covers three-quarters of its length, this full-bodied Cuban puro commands attention before it is even lit. Measuring an impressive 165 mm (6 1/2 inches) with a modern 48 ring gauge, this vitola—known in the factory as the Partagás 15—evolves the legacy of the original Gold Medal into a more voluminous and impactful experience. Aficionados can expect a sophisticated journey through rich earth, toasted nuts, dark coffee, and leathery undertones, all brightened by a signature citrus tang. This is not merely a cigar; it is a collector’s trophy that embodies the bold, revolutionary spirit of its namesake, Simón Bolívar.
Box Features and Packaging Options
| Feature | Box of 10 (Standard Release) | Special/Historical Reference |
|---|---|---|
| Cigars per Box | 10 Cigars | N/A (Exclusive 10-count format) |
| Packaging Type | LCDH Exclusive Dress Box with Red Ribbon | N/A |
| Ideal For | Serious Collectors & Connoisseurs | Long-term Investment |
| Humidity Protection | Gold Foil Wrap (Internal) | Boveda-ready cedar lining |
Cigar Specifications
| Vitola | New Gold Medal (Factory Name: Partagás 15) |
| Length | 165 mm / 6.5 inches |
| Ring Gauge | 48 |
| Wrapper | Cuban (Shiny Colorado with brown reflections) |
| Binder | Cuba (Vuelta Abajo) |
| Filler | Cuba (Vuelta Abajo) |
| Strength | Full |
| Body | Medium-Full to Full |
| Smoking Time | 75–90 Minutes |
| Factory | Partagás Factory, Havana |
| Brand Owner | Habanos S.A. |
Brand Heritage
The Bolívar brand, established in 1901 by José F. Rocha, stands as a testament to the “Liberator” of South America, Simón Bolívar. Known historically for producing the most powerful cigars in the Habanos portfolio, Bolívar has cultivated a reputation for uncompromising strength and depth of flavor. Since its inception in Havana, the brand has been the choice of the seasoned smoker—those who appreciate a profile that is as robust as it is complex. Every Bolívar cigar is a tribute to the revolutionary spirit, utilizing the finest leaves from the Vuelta Abajo region to ensure a smoke that is both impactful and memorable.
The Bolivar Gold Medal lineage is particularly storied. Originally a 42-ring gauge Lonsdale that gained a cult following for its unique gold foil presentation, it was discontinued in 2011, leaving a void in the hearts of collectors. In 2023, Habanos S.A. announced its glorious return as the New Gold Medal. This updated version respects the heritage of the original while adapting to modern preferences with a thicker 48 ring gauge. As an LCDH exclusive, it is produced in limited quantities and distributed only through the world’s most prestigious cigar boutiques, making it one of the most sought-after releases of the decade.
Produced at the legendary Partagás factory in the heart of Havana, the Bolivar New Gold Medal benefits from the expertise of Cuba’s most skilled torcedores. The brand’s commitment to quality is evident in the selection of ligero leaves, which provide the cigar with its characteristic “robust kick.” For the aficionado who seeks a cigar with a historical soul and a contemporary presence, the Bolivar New Gold Medal is the pinnacle of the Habanos catalog.
Tasting Profile
First Third – The Opening
Upon ignition, the Bolivar New Gold Medal introduces itself with an impressive burst of dense, velvety smoke. The initial draws are defined by a sophisticated cedar woodiness and a subtle floral sweetness. As the burn progresses through the first inch, the classic Bolivar DNA begins to emerge, revealing notes of toasted almonds and roasted coffee beans. There is a perceptible citrus tang on the tip of the tongue that provides a beautiful contrast to the building earthy foundation. The strength starts at a controlled medium but hints at the power contained within the masterfully rolled filler.
Second Third – The Heart
The transition into the middle third marks a significant increase in both body and intensity. The “robust kick” Bolívar is famous for takes center stage, delivering a chewy texture that coats the palate. Dominant flavors of dark chocolate and rich leather become more pronounced, while the nuttiness evolves from almond to a deeper walnut profile. The earthiness becomes more “damp” and mineral-rich, characteristic of the finest Vuelta Abajo tobacco. Retrohaling at this stage reveals a complex blend of white pepper and baking spices, adding a layer of sophisticated heat to the experience.
Final Third – The Crescendo
In the final stages, the Bolivar New Gold Medal reaches its full potential. The citrus notes return with more vigor, balancing the heavy toasted tobacco and charred oak flavors. The smoke remains remarkably cool despite the increase in strength, a testament to the 165 mm length and expert construction. Notes of espresso and black licorice dance in the background, while the earthy core remains steadfast. The cigar concludes with a powerful, full-bodied finish that is satisfying without becoming overly bitter, leaving the smoker with a profound sense of luxury.
Finish
The aftertaste is exceptionally long-lasting, characterized by a lingering sweetness and a touch of salty minerality. The citrus and spice notes stay on the palate for several minutes after the final puff, ensuring that the “New Gold Medal” experience stays with you long after the cigar has been laid to rest in the ashtray.
Flavor Wheel
| Primary Notes | Rich Earth, Dark Espresso, Toasted Walnuts |
| Secondary Notes | Spanish Cedar, Leather, Citrus Peel |
| Tertiary Notes | White Pepper, Nutmeg, Dried Fruits |
| Finish | Long, Lingering Cocoa and Wood |
| Aroma | Robust Wood, Roasted Spices, Barnyard |
Aging and Collector Value
The Bolivar New Gold Medal is a prime candidate for long-term aging. Due to its full-strength profile and high concentration of ligero tobacco, the 2023 release possesses the structural integrity required to evolve beautifully over decades. In its youth, the cigar is vibrant and punchy; however, with 2 to 5 years of proper humidification, the initial “bite” will mellow, allowing the fruity and nutty nuances to integrate more seamlessly with the earthy base.
For the serious collector, the LCDH exclusive status and the unique gold foil packaging significantly enhance its investment value. We recommend storing these in their original 10-cigar dress boxes at a steady 65-68% relative humidity. While the gold foil provides some protection, it is advisable to maintain a stable temperature of 16-18°C to prevent any fermentation spikes. As these cigars become increasingly rare on the secondary market, their value as a heritage Habanos release is expected to climb significantly.
Perfect Pairings
| Beverage | Why It Works |
|---|---|
| 12-Year-Old Cuban Rum | The molasses sweetness perfectly balances the Bolivar’s earthy intensity. |
| Peaty Islay Scotch | The smoky, medicinal notes of the whisky complement the leather and charred wood flavors. |
| Double Espresso | Amplifies the roasted coffee notes and cleanses the palate between draws. |
| Cognac XO | The dried fruit and floral notes of a fine Cognac pair beautifully with the citrus tang. |
| Stout or Porter | The creamy head and chocolate undertones of the beer soften the full-bodied strength. |
Authenticity Verification
At our luxury boutique, we understand that purchasing premium Cubans requires absolute trust. Every Bolivar New Gold Medal we ship is guaranteed 100% authentic, sourced directly from official Habanos distributors.
- Habanos Holographic Seal – Each box features the official holographic seal with a unique serial number and hidden security features visible under UV light.
- Box Code Verification – The underside of every 10-count dress box is stamped with the factory code (typically TPE or MAR) and the month/year of production.
- Factory Stamp – Look for the “Totalmente a Mano” (Totally by Hand) and “Hecho en Cuba” heat-stamps on the bottom of the box.
- Triple Cap – Each cigar is finished with a traditional Cuban triple cap, a hallmark of master rollers at the Partagás factory.
Our Guarantee: If any cigar fails Habanos verification through the official Habanos S.A. website, we provide a full refund. Trusted by collectors since 2015, we ensure your investment is protected by the highest standards of quality control.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between the original Gold Medal and the New Gold Medal?
The original Bolivar Gold Medal was a Lonsdale with a 42 ring gauge. The New Gold Medal released in 2023 features a significantly thicker 48 ring gauge. This modern update allows for a cooler draw and a more complex blend of filler tobaccos, resulting in a richer, more voluminous smoke while maintaining the iconic 165 mm length.
Is the gold foil safe to leave on the cigar in my humidor?
Yes, the embossed gold foil is designed for the cigar. It protects the delicate wrapper and adds a layer of prestige to your humidor display. However, for long-term aging (beyond 5 years), some collectors prefer to remove the foil from a few sticks to allow the tobacco to “breathe” more freely, though leaving it on is perfectly acceptable and historically traditional.
How does the strength of this cigar compare to the Bolivar Belicosos Finos?
The Bolivar New Gold Medal is generally considered to be in the same full-strength category as the Belicosos Finos. However, because of its longer format (165 mm vs 140 mm), the New Gold Medal offers a more progressive development. The strength builds more gradually, providing a more nuanced experience before reaching its powerful crescendo in the final third.
Why is the Bolivar New Gold Medal so difficult to find?
This cigar is a La Casa del Habano (LCDH) Exclusive. It is produced in smaller batches than the standard portfolio and is only allocated to authorized LCDH retailers. Its combination of historical significance, unique packaging, and exceptional smoking quality makes it a high-demand item that often sells out shortly after arriving in stock.
