Let's talk about the Oliva Serie V No.4, nicknamed "Ligero" or "Liga Especial" among cigar circles. This Nicaraguan puro packs a medium-full punch in its compact 5"x43 corona frame. At $8 per stick (box of 24 for $190.80), it's become a go-to for smokers wanting big flavor in small format. The maduro wrapper shows oily sheen that hints at the dark coffee and spice bomb waiting inside. I've had mine resting six weeks - perfectly squishy with zero soft spots.
The cold draw serves espresso grounds and dried leather. Initial puffs bring thick smoke with black pepper on retrohale - that signature Nic tobacco kick. Burn line stays razor-sharp despite the dense roll. By the inch mark, I'm getting molasses sweetness balancing the earthy core.
Now the ligero tobacco flexes muscle. Dark chocolate emerges with roasted nut undertones. Retrohale shifts to baking spices - think allspice, not cinnamon. Ash holds firm for 1.5" before dropping. Smoke output stays medium, no overwhelming nicotine yet.
At band removal, bitter cacao takes over. Savory umami notes appear like mushroom powder. The last inch gets peppery again with throat tingle. Stopped at nub - no tar buildup but tongue fatigue sets in. Total smoke time: 48 minutes.
