Oliva Serie G Churchill Review: A Rich and Affordable Smoke

Brand: Oliva
Line: Serie G
Size: 7" x 50 (Churchill)
Wrapper: African Cameroon
Binder: Nicaraguan Habano
Filler: Nicaraguan
Strength: Medium
Price: £99 (Box of 25)

The Oliva Serie G Churchill offers a refined yet accessible smoking experience. Known for its Cameroon wrapper and Nicaraguan filler, this cigar combines tradition with a modern touch, making it an ideal choice for both novice and seasoned cigar enthusiasts. 

Look & Feel: 18/20

The Oliva Serie G Churchill has a rich, medium-brown Cameroon wrapper with slight veining and a subtle oily sheen. It has a well-packed, firm feel with just enough give, indicative of high-quality craftsmanship. The Churchill’s 7-inch length and 50-ring gauge provide a satisfying, substantial grip, promising a long, enjoyable smoke.

Pre-Light: 17/20

Before lighting, the cold draw reveals pleasant notes of cedar, earthy undertones, and a faint sweetness. The pre-light aroma is inviting, with elements of wood, cocoa, and nuts that foreshadow a well-rounded smoking journey. Cutting the cap is smooth, and the draw is just right—not too tight nor too loose—indicating that the cigar is well-packed but will still allow for easy airflow.

The pre-light experience hints at the simplicity and refinement that Oliva has captured in this line. While the cold draw doesn’t reveal any overly bold notes, it sets a balanced stage, allowing you to expect a gradual unfolding of flavor rather than an overwhelming blast from the start.

Burn: 17/20

Once lit, the Oliva Serie G Churchill burns with a commendable even line, requiring minimal touch-ups. Its ash holds firmly, displaying a light gray color that remains intact for about an inch before falling off naturally. This consistency in burn is one of the cigar’s strengths; while occasional touch-ups may be needed, they’re infrequent and do not detract from the overall experience.

The smoke output is generous, filling the air with a creamy texture that enhances the aromatic quality of the cigar. The burn is slow and even, ideal for savoring the nuanced flavors that evolve throughout the smoke. The larger Churchill size allows for a long burn time, making this cigar perfect for leisurely enjoyment.

Flavor: 17/20

The Oliva Serie G Churchill offers a well-rounded flavor progression:

• First Third (0-30 minutes): The cigar opens with smooth, nutty notes accompanied by hints of wood and light spice. The Cameroon wrapper lends a gentle sweetness, balanced by a mild peppery undertone.
• Second Third (30-60 minutes): Moving into the second third, the flavors deepen, with earthy and leather notes becoming more pronounced. The smoke remains medium-bodied, with a subtle creaminess that enhances the overall complexity.
• Final Third (60-90 minutes): The final third introduces hints of cocoa and a more pronounced spice, creating a balanced blend of sweetness and earthiness. The pepper intensifies slightly, but the smoothness remains, resulting in a flavorful finish.

Overall Experience: 16/20

The Oliva Serie G Churchill is an excellent choice for those seeking quality at an affordable price. It showcases the Oliva brand's attention to detail and craftsmanship, delivering a complex and enjoyable smoking experience without breaking the bank.

Comparative Analysis

Compared to cigars in a similar price range, the Oliva Serie G Churchill stands out for its flavor balance and construction quality.

The Oliva Serie G Churchill offers exceptional value, often surpassing its peers in flavor complexity and construction.

Pairings

To enhance the Oliva Serie G experience, consider these pairing options:

• Dark Rum: Complements the sweetness and spice, enriching the nutty flavors.
• Port Wine: The rich, fruity notes of port balance the cigar’s earthy tones.
• Dark Chocolate: Adds a hint of sweetness that complements the cocoa notes in the final third.

Last Look at Oliva Serie G Churchill

For me, The Oliva Serie G Churchill scores a solid 85/100. Its balanced flavor profile, dependable construction, and affordable price make it a fantastic choice for those seeking quality without an extravagant price tag. 

For those interested in trying a well-crafted, medium-bodied cigar with classic notes and subtle complexity, the Oliva Serie G Churchill is my recommendation. Its smoothness, balanced flavors, and reliable burn make it a staple for those who appreciate both quality and value.