The Oliva Serie V Churchill Extra (nicknamed "Ligero" among regulars) rolls out as a 7" x 52 Nicaraguan powerhorse packed with fermented Jalapa Valley ligero. This box-pressed parejo delivers 60-90 minutes of medium-full intensity, wearing its Ecuador Habano Sun Grown wrapper like a oiled leather jacket - dark, slightly toothy, and ready for action.
First Third: Black pepper bursts through with dark roast coffee edges, settling into cedar undertones after 15 minutes. Expect visible oil streaks on the ash.
Middle Third: The Jalapa Valley ligero takes center stage - caramelized walnut sweetness cutting through cocoa powder density. Draw resistance minimal, smoke output above average.
Final Third: Baking spices emerge (cinnamon/nutmeg), though nicotine buildup requires slower pacing. Last inch brings bitter espresso notes, perfect with bourbon.
Store at 65% RH to prevent wrapper cracking. Dry-box for 4 hours pre-smoke - the dense ligero filler benefits from slight dehydration. Pair with cold brew coffee to accentuate the cocoa notes.
