Oliva Master Blends 3: an review...

Marca: Oliva
Brand: MB3
Vitola: 50x5 (box-press robusto)
Wrapper: US CT Broadleaf
Binder: Nicaragua
Filler: Nicaragua
Vintage: 2007
Strength: Full
Body: Med/Full
Time: 52min
Construction: Excellent
Draw: Light/Med
Rating: 7/10
Recommend: Yes

The Oliva MB Series has always been their powerhouse/showcase line of cigars. It's basically there to show what they can do at any given place in time. The two preceding examples are legendary and are coveted by enthusiasts world-wide. The Olivas are one of the oldest families in the business and own vast tracts of land all over the tobacco growing countries; especially Nicaragua.

This all-Nicaraguan cigar is a leviathan of strength, so brace yourself. My example dates to 2007, so much of that power has been diminished. If you're a fan of Nic' puros, then you'll likely love these things. If you're not, it's likely not going to make your long list. When fresh, they're one of those Nic' puros that define the platform; strong for strong' sake. Personally, I'm not one of those Nic' fanatics and have rued the day since the Cubans began using Nicaraguan tobacco in most of their marca.

That said, the MB3, as well as the V from Oliva, have always scratched a certain cigar itch for me. I just enjoy them. Even with this much age, they aren't as complex as I'd expect, nor as nuanced as a lot of age tends to render. Still, they remain a damn good smoke and in no way do I regret allowing a box of these to take up space in my wineador for this long.

The draw is definitely a highlight with these. As with most box-press cigars, it's just free and effortless. Lots of nut and leather notes, with hints of allspice. The strength is still there in spades. That "nicotine spiciness" at the back of the palette has mellowed a bit, but I doubt will ever cease to be a major player. I'd expected more complexity with age, but it just hasn't happened. Maybe another 10 years...

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http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k1...psw5rpmxem.jpg

Still nubbed it, though...
http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k1...psbemtghws.jpg

Great review Don. Thanks for sharing! I am still fascinated with vintage cigars and how they still smoke so well after many years. I had a stick from 1988 the other night and was rather amazed how perfectly it smoked.