Bolivar Petit Belicoso 2009 Limited Edition

Origin : Cuba
Format : Petit Belicoso
Size : 124 x 21 mm (4.9 x 52)
Ring : 52
Hand-Made
Price : ~$11-13
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Bolivar Petit Belicoso is the last 2009 limited release from Habanos SA that we are reviewing at CigarInspector.com. This is the very first edicion limitada from Bolivar. 4.9 inches long, with a 52 ring gauge, this mini-belicoso is an obvious attempt to follow the success of petit vitolas. As usual for limited editions, the tobacco for this cigar has been aged for at least 2 years.

Appearance :
The wrapper, dark chocolate, has traces of glue and some heavy veining for a Cuban cigar. Salty on the lips, it has a distinct taste of black pepper. The pre-draw is open and very spicy.

Construction :
I was totally satisfied by the draw and the amount of smoke this cigar produced. However, I have some complaints regarding the burn - not only I often needed to correct it (the wrapper is in fact very thick, I think the issues were due to this), but also at the half-point I struggled to keep the cigar lit.

Flavor :
The first third is a mix of powerful woody and spicy flavors. The complexity is moderate. There is also some maduro sweetness in the bouquet. The smoke, heavy, is a little dry. Petit Belicoso becomes earthier and earthier; soft chocolate notes are added to the mix in the second third - this is where I experienced burn problems. I know very well that most Bolivar cigars are rather powerful and I thought I was prepared for it. However, the last third came as a complete surprise. Absolutely full-bodied, earthy and woody with spice in the background, it made my head spinning. Wow!

Value :
With its obvious ageing potential, this is a nice buy if you like typical Bolivar flavors and power.

Overall Rating :
As other two 2009 limited editions, the Bolivar Petit Belicoso deserves a place in the Habanos SA offering (and in our humidors, probably). What I like about this year's releases is that the three cigars are very different - the complex and balanced Magnum 48, the linear yet enjoyable Duke and the uncontrollable and wild Petit Belicoso. Whereas the first two are ready to be smoked right now, I would wait at least 1 year before visiting this Bolivar again.