Every October brings a host of annual limited edition cigars, one of which is the highly-rated Oliva Serie V Maduro. While the regular Serie V line debuted in late 2007, Oliva released the first Serie V Maduro Especial in 2008 and has since been rewarded with consistent high marks from everyone, including a 93 rating for last year's edition of the Serie V Maduro. In 2011, Oliva sought to change things up a bit, opting for a Toro (6 x 50) instead of the normal Torpedo shape that the Serie V Maduro has been released in years prior. Returning for another year is the leather-like San Andrés (Mexico) Maduro wrapper over the Nicaragua fillers. As per the norm, TABOLISA will only be releasing 5,000 boxes and if the year's past are any indication, these will go quick.

The Serie V Maduro has a striking appearance, perhaps the wrapper just allows for Oliva's craftsmanship to shine through better? What does make itself known is the flavor: espresso, leathers, chocolates, nuts, earth and a plethora of baking spices. It's exactly what you'd expect from a cigar that looks nothing short of a Nicaraguan chocolate bar and bears the classic gold Oliva band. It's full flavor, full body and full strength with tons of complexity and richness. For those that have enjoyed the richness of Oliva's prior Serie V Maduro releases, be prepared for a bit more in the Oliva Serie V Maduro Especial 2011.