The Bolivar New Gold Medal: A Reimagined Classic

Konstantin Denishev
Sep 10, 2024
3 min read

Welcome to KD Leaf Diaries, where I bring you the finest cigars the world has to offer. Today, we’re delving into the Bolivar New Gold Medal, a reissue of the much-loved classic Bolivar Gold Medal. Launched in 2023, this exclusive cigar from La Casa del Habano stores brings a modern twist to a historical favourite, offering a fuller, more robust experience.

The Flavour Profile

The Bolivar New Gold Medal is a celebration of bold flavours. From the first draw, it reveals deep earthy undertones, complemented by dark chocolate and espresso notes. As you smoke, spicy accents emerge, adding complexity and richness to each puff. The cigar is medium-to-full-bodied, with an intensity that satisfies experienced cigar enthusiasts while maintaining a smooth balance throughout the smoking session.

Vitola Details and Interesting Facts

Here are the key specifications of the Bolivar New Gold Medal:

Factory Name: Partagás 15
Dimensions: Ring gauge 48 x Length 165 mm (6 1/2 inches)
Construction: Handmade
Bands: Traditional Bolivar band with a red La Casa del Habano band
Packaging: 10-count boxes, wrapped in gold foil, just like the original

The vitola for the New Gold Medal is slightly larger than the original Bolivar Gold Medal, which featured a ring gauge of 42. This slight increase in size adds more to the smoking experience while maintaining the cigar’s signature strength.

Comparison to the Original Bolivar Gold Medal

The original Bolivar Gold Medal was discontinued in 2011 but remained a favourite among collectors and aficionados. Known for its rich, robust flavour in a slender format, the original had a 42 ring gauge and was also adorned with the iconic gold foil. The New Gold Medal maintains the beloved 6 1/2-inch length but has a thicker gauge, making for a more substantial smoking experience.

While the original was powerful, the New Gold Medal introduces a more modern flavour profile, with an added emphasis on complexity and body. The increase in ring gauge allows for a cooler, more nuanced smoke that’s perfectly balanced, without losing the boldness that made the original so famous.

Construction and Craftsmanship

The Bolivar New Gold Medal exemplifies the best of Cuban craftsmanship. Each cigar is meticulously rolled, ensuring a perfect draw and even burn. The smooth, oily wrapper adds to the experience, making every puff rich and satisfying. The golden foil wrapping offers an elegant touch, paying homage to the original while adding a layer of luxury to the experience.

Perfect Pairings

To complement the intense flavour profile of the New Gold Medal, I recommend pairing it with a Single Malt Scotch, Dark Rum or a Bold Espresso. These choices enhance the rich chocolate and espresso notes in the cigar, creating a harmonious and indulgent smoking experience.

A Journey Worth Taking

The Bolivar New Gold Medal is more than just a reissue; it’s a tribute to the brand’s legacy, reimagined for today’s aficionados. Whether you’re a long-time fan of the original or new to the Bolivar brand, this cigar offers a luxurious and memorable smoking experience.

Rating for Bolivar New Gold Medal

Here’s how the Bolivar New Gold Medal scores:

Appearance: 9/10
Aroma: 9/10
Flavour: 20/20
Draw: 10/10
Burn: 9/10
Construction: 10/10
Strength: 9/10
Finish: 9/10
Overall Experience: 10/10

Total Score: 95/100

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