Description
The Bolivar Petit Coronas stands as a monumental achievement in the world of Habanos, offering a concentrated explosion of flavor that belies its compact Mareva dimensions. Often cited by aficionados as the gold standard for full-bodied intensity, this handcrafted Cuban puro is not merely a cigar; it is a tribute to the “Liberator,” Simon Bolivar. Measuring 129 mm (5 1/8 inches) with a classic 42 ring gauge, the Petit Coronas delivers a sophisticated journey through earthy spice, rich leather, and exotic woody notes. Designed for the discerning connoisseur who demands uncompromising strength in a shorter format, this vitola provides a commanding 30 to 45-minute experience that mirrors the powerful character of its namesake. Whether you are a seasoned collector or a thrill-seeking enthusiast, the Bolivar Petit Coronas represents the pinnacle of Cuban craftsmanship, offering a dense, aromatic smoke that remains a bestseller in luxury humidors worldwide.
Box Features and Packaging Options
| Feature | Box of 25 | Box of 10 |
|---|---|---|
| Cigars per Box | 25 Units | 10 Units |
| Packaging Type | Dress Box (Labelled Box) | Dress Box (Labelled Box) |
| Ideal For | Long-term aging and daily rotation | Sampling and short-term travel |
| Humidity Protection | Cedar-lined for optimal maturation | Compact storage for freshness |
Cigar Specifications
| Vitola | Petit Coronas (Mareva) |
| Length | 129 mm / 5.08 inches |
| Ring Gauge | 42 |
| Wrapper | Cuba (Vuelta Abajo) |
| Binder | Cuba (Vuelta Abajo) |
| Filler | Cuba (Vuelta Abajo) |
| Strength | Full-Bodied |
| Body | Robust and Powerful |
| Smoking Time | 30-45 Minutes |
| Factory | Traditional Cuban Factory |
| Brand Owner | Habanos S.A. |
Brand Heritage
The story of Bolivar is one of revolutionary spirit and unwavering strength. Founded in 1901 by the Jose Rocha Company at the El Crepusculo factory, the brand was named in honor of Simon Bolivar (1783–1830), the legendary Venezuelan general who liberated much of South America from Spanish rule. Just as the “Liberator” was known for his commanding presence and indomitable will, Bolivar cigars are globally recognized for being among the most robust and full-flavored in the Habanos portfolio. The brand’s identity is inextricably linked to this heritage of power, making it the preferred choice for those who seek a “strong” Havana experience.
Following its acquisition in 1954 by Menendez, Garcia y Cia—the same legendary firm that oversaw H. Upmann and Montecristo—the Bolivar brand cemented its reputation for quality and consistency. Throughout the mid-20th century, Bolivar gained a cult following among seasoned aficionados who appreciated its dense smoke and complex profile. While many Cuban brands have moved toward a more medium-bodied profile to appeal to modern palates, Bolivar has remained fiercely loyal to its roots. The Petit Coronas, in particular, has become the brand’s most famous vitola, proving that true power does not require a massive ring gauge, but rather a masterfully blended selection of leaves from the Vuelta Abajo region.
Today, Bolivar continues to be a symbol of status and expertise. It is a brand that doesn’t seek to please everyone; instead, it rewards the experienced smoker who can navigate its intricate layers of earth, leather, and spice. The heritage of Bolivar is preserved in every hand-rolled stick, ensuring that the legacy of the great General lives on through a smoking experience that is as profound as it is memorable.
Tasting Profile
First Third – The Opening
The experience begins with a “feisty” and immediate introduction to the Bolivar DNA. From the first draw, the Bolivar Petit Coronas announces its presence with a blast of black pepper and damp earth. The smoke is dense and chewy, coating the palate with a distinct cedar woodiness that is both aromatic and sharp. Unlike milder cigars that take time to develop, this Mareva vitola hits its stride early, offering a savory profile that hints at the intensity to come. There is a subtle underlying sweetness, reminiscent of dark cocoa, which provides a necessary counterpoint to the initial spice.
Second Third – The Heart
As the cigar transitions into the middle third, the initial aggression gives way to a more refined complexity. The earthy notes become more pronounced, evolving into a rich, loamy character that is the hallmark of premium Vuelta Abajo tobacco. Here, the nutty undertones—specifically roasted almonds and walnuts—emerge, adding a smooth, oily texture to the smoke. The spice remains present but shifts from a sharp pepper to a more nuanced exotic spice blend, involving hints of cinnamon and nutmeg. The construction of the Petit Coronas ensures a consistent burn, allowing these flavors to intermingle beautifully without any single note overpowering the others.
Final Third – The Crescendo
The final third is where the Bolivar Petit Coronas truly earns its reputation as a powerhouse. The intensity ramps up significantly, delivering a full-bodied crescendo of heavy leather and charred oak. The spice returns with renewed vigor, providing a thrilling “pang” on the tongue that lingers long after the smoke is exhaled. Despite the increase in strength, the cigar maintains its balance, never becoming harsh if smoked with patience. The flavors darken, moving toward black coffee and toasted tobacco, providing a robust and satisfying conclusion to this 45-minute journey.
Finish
The finish of the Bolivar Petit Coronas is exceptionally long and creamy. It leaves a lasting impression of leathery richness and a spicy tingle on the palate. The aftertaste is clean but profound, a testament to the high-quality fermentation of the filler leaves. It is a finish that demands reflection, often leaving the smoker wanting to revisit the experience immediately.
Flavor Wheel
| Primary Notes | Rich Leather, Damp Earth, Black Pepper |
| Secondary Notes | Roasted Walnuts, Cedar Wood, Dark Cocoa |
| Tertiary Notes | Cinnamon, Toasted Tobacco, Nutmeg |
| Finish | Creamy, Spicy, Lingering Leather |
| Aroma | Pungent, Woody, Spicy Pre-light Bouquet |
Aging and Collector Value
The Bolivar Petit Coronas is widely regarded as one of the best Cuban cigars for long-term aging. Because of its high oil content and full-bodied strength, it possesses the “bones” necessary to evolve gracefully over time. In its youth (1-2 years), the cigar is a wild stallion—full of spice, vigor, and raw power. This “feistiness” is what many Bolivar fans crave, but for the collector, patience is rewarded with a more harmonious profile.
Between 3 to 5 years of aging in a stable environment (65-70% RH), the sharp edges of the pepper begin to soften, and the earthy notes take on a creamy, velvety texture. The nutty and woody notes become more integrated, creating a “vintage” Cuban profile that is highly sought after at auction. For those with the discipline to wait 10 years or more, the Bolivar Petit Coronas develops a sophisticated musky sweetness that is impossible to find in younger sticks.
To preserve its robust oils and prevent the wrapper from becoming brittle, we recommend storing these in a cedar-lined humidor at a consistent 65-72% RH and 65-70°F. As a staple of the Habanos catalog, its collector value remains high due to its consistent demand and the legendary status of the Bolivar brand among “Habanophiles.”
Perfect Pairings
| Beverage | Why It Works |
|---|---|
| Aged Dark Rum | The molasses sweetness of an aged rum (like Zacapa 23) perfectly balances the spicy leather of the Bolivar. |
| Peaty Single Malt | A smoky Islay scotch (like Lagavulin) complements the deep earthy and woody notes of the cigar. |
| XO Cognac | The dried fruit and oak notes of a fine Cognac elevate the exotic spice and nutty undertones. |
| Strong Espresso | A double shot of black coffee cuts through the creaminess and matches the cigar’s intensity for a morning smoke. |
| Stout or Porter | The roasted malt and chocolate notes of a dark beer pair excellently with the final third’s coffee flavors. |
| Tawny Port | The nutty, oxidized character of a 20-year Port mirrors the secondary notes found in a slightly aged Petit Coronas. |
Authenticity Verification
In the luxury cigar market, authenticity is the foundation of trust. We ensure that every box of Bolivar Petit Coronas we provide meets the rigorous standards of Habanos S.A. and is 100% authentic.
- Habanos Holographic Seal – Every box features the official holographic seal on the top right corner, which includes a unique barcode and hidden security features visible only under UV light.
- Box Code Verification – The bottom of each box is hot-stamped with the factory code and the date of production (e.g., BRE MAY 23), allowing for full traceability.
- Factory Stamp – Look for the “Hecho en Cuba” and “Totalmente a Mano” (Totally by Hand) stamps, which signify traditional Cuban manufacturing.
- Triple Cap – Each Bolivar Petit Coronas is finished with a flawless triple cap, a signature of master torcedores that ensures a clean cut and perfect draw.
Our Guarantee: Every cigar in our inventory undergoes a multi-point inspection for wrapper quality and construction. If any cigar fails Habanos verification, we provide a full refund. Trusted by collectors since 2015, we are committed to delivering only the finest Cuban puros.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the Bolivar Petit Coronas taste like?
The Bolivar Petit Coronas is famous for its full-bodied and earthy profile. You can expect dominant notes of rich leather, damp soil, and black pepper in the first half. As it progresses, it develops roasted nut and cedar wood flavors, finishing with a creamy yet spicy intensity that is characteristic of the Bolivar brand.
How long does it take to smoke a Bolivar Petit Corona?
Given its 129 mm (5 1/8″) length and 42 ring gauge, the average smoking time is between 30 and 45 minutes. It is the perfect size for an after-lunch indulgence or a sophisticated break during a busy day, offering the complexity of a much larger cigar in a more time-efficient format.
Is the Bolivar Petit Coronas too strong for a beginner?
While beginners can certainly enjoy the craftsmanship, the Bolivar Petit Coronas is classified as full-bodied. Its strength and nicotine content are higher than brands like Hoyo de Monterrey or Quintero. We recommend it for smokers who have some experience with medium-bodied cigars or those who prefer a more robust, “punchy” flavor profile.
How does it compare to the Montecristo No. 4?
Both cigars share the same Mareva vitola dimensions (42 x 129mm). However, while the Montecristo No. 4 is known for its medium-full profile with notes of cocoa, cream, and coffee, the Bolivar Petit Coronas is significantly more robust, earthy, and spicy. If you find the Montecristo No. 4 too mild, the Bolivar is the natural step up in intensity.
What is the best way to store these cigars?
To maintain the integrity of the wrapper and the oils within the filler, store them in a cedar-lined humidor. We recommend a humidity level of 65% to 70% RH. Bolivar cigars are particularly sensitive to over-humidification, which can make the draw tight; keeping them at 65% often provides the most consistent burn and flavor release.
