Bolivar Royal Corona Cigar - 1 Single

From the cold draw, the Bolívar Royal Corona offers earthy, woody aromas with a touch of barnyard and cocoa. Upon lighting, the cigar immediately asserts its full-bodied nature with bold notes of dark earth, espresso, and black pepper, accompanied by a creamy, dense smoke. The first third is rich and savory, with hints of leather, toasted nuts, and a slight bitter cocoa edge that balances the intensity.

Overall Impression:

The Bolívar Royal Corona cigar is a standout Robusto that delivers bold Cuban cigar flavor in a perfectly balanced format. Rich and full-bodied, this cigar offers a deep core of earth, dark chocolate, roasted coffee, and leather, layered with hints of spice and a subtle sweetness that evolves throughout the smoke. Its construction is consistently excellent, with a smooth draw and even burn, making it approachable yet powerful. The Bolivar Royal Corona cigar captures the essence of the Bolívar brand—intense, complex, and satisfying—and remains a top choice for aficionados seeking a classic Cuban cigar with depth, strength, and refinement.

A full flavoured, full strength, spicy and woody tasting cigar. Although the Bolivar Royal Corona cuban cigar is full strength it is never aggressive and the aroma is more subtle than one would expect.

Drink Pairings:

1. Aged Rum – A smooth, full-bodied rum like Ron Zacapa 23, Diplomático Reserva Exclusiva, or Flor de Caña 18 enhances the cigar’s natural sweetness and cocoa notes while complementing its earthiness.

2. Single Malt Scotch – For depth and contrast, pair with a peaty Islay whisky such as Lagavulin 16 or a sherried Speyside like Aberlour A'Bunadh to highlight the cigar’s spice and leather.

3. Espresso or Ristretto – A strong, dark coffee intensifies the cigar’s roasted coffee and dark chocolate notes and provides a bold, balanced pairing.

4. Full-Bodied Red Wine – A rich Ribera del Duero, Barolo, or Argentinian Malbec complements the cigar’s robust structure with dark fruit, oak, and tannin.

5. Cognac or Armagnac – Aged brandy like Rémy Martin XO or Château de Laubade brings warmth, sweetness, and a velvety finish that pairs beautifully with the cigar's bold profile.

Food Pairings:

1. Dark Chocolate (75–85%) – Enhances the cigar’s natural cocoa bitterness and adds luxurious mouthfeel.

2. Grilled Ribeye or Lamb Chops – Charred, fatty meats amplify the cigar’s earthy and leathery flavors and soften its power with richness.

3. Aged Cheese – Manchego Viejo, aged cheddar, or Gouda offer nutty, umami notes that play well with the cigar’s depth.

4. Cured Meats – Jamón Ibérico, chorizo, or duck prosciutto bring salt, fat, and spice that echo the cigar’s robust profile.

5. Mole Sauce or Rich BBQ – Dishes with dark spices, chocolate, or smoke resonate beautifully with the cigar’s complex flavor profile.

These pairings are designed to elevate the Bolívar Royal Corona’s bold and layered character, making it the perfect centerpiece for an indulgent and flavorful pairing experience.

The History of Bolivar cigars

Simon Bolivar was one of the great historic figures of the 19th Century who liberated much of South America from Spanish rule.

The Bolivar brand was created in 1902 and is based today in the Partagas factory which is in the heart of Havana. 

It is perhaps not surprising that a Habano named after such a powerful figure is blended to match his might. Bolivar is among the strongest, most full bodied of all Habanos. It boasts an unrivalled richness of flavour in its blend of Vuelta Abajo zone filler and binder tobacco that makes it one of the most sought-after marques amongst experienced smokers. 

All sizes of Bolivar are ‘tripa larga, totalmente a mano,’ – long filler, totally handmade. It is the brand of choice for enthusiasts who like strong flavours!

"An attractive robusto with a slightly uneven burn but open draw. Initial notes of orange peel and sweet tea segue into a heavier smoke of earth, hazelnut and a bit of caramel..."

Rated 94/100 by Cigar Aficionado in 2023