Oliva · Serie V
New WorldAficionadosOliva Serie V Lancero
The long, slender 7 x 38 Serie V Lancero — a wrapper-forward take on Oliva's full-bodied flagship blend, prized by experienced smokers.
The short answer
The Oliva Serie V Lancero is a bold, full-bodied cigar — a Nicaragua lancero with a Ecuador Habano wrapper. Expect coffee, cedar, and pepper. Critics rate it 94/100.
Critic ratings
Cigar Aficionado
2019
94/100
Scores as published by each reviewer. Casa DNC aggregates third-party ratings; we don't score cigars ourselves.
The verdict
The Oliva Serie V Lancero is a bold, full-bodied cigar from Oliva's Serie V line. It's a Nicaragua (New World) lancero wrapped in Ecuador Habano at 7 in × 38.
On the palate, expect coffee, cedar, and pepper, leaning roast. Plan on roughly 60 minutes from light to nub.
It's well regarded: Cigar Aficionado rated it 94/100 in 2019. It pairs naturally with espresso, aged rum, and neat whiskey. If you're newer to cigars, work up to this one rather than starting here.
The Lancero is the connoisseur's cut of the Serie V. At 7 inches by a slim 38 ring gauge, the thin format pushes more of the Ecuadorian Habano wrapper into every puff, which shifts the balance of Oliva's famous full-bodied blend toward brighter, more aromatic notes.
What it tastes like
You still get the Serie V core of coffee, cocoa, and pepper from the Nicaraguan Jalapa ligero, but the narrow ring gauge adds a layer of sweet cedar and a subtle floral lift up top. It's elegant and concentrated, and it rewards a slow, unhurried pace. Burn it too hot and the thin format will let you know.
Who it's for
Lanceros are for experienced smokers who appreciate nuance — this isn't a casual format, but it's a treat when you have time to give it. If you're curious how wrapper-forward sizes change a blend, our Cuban vs Nicaraguan piece is a good companion, and the cigar strength guide sets expectations on the body.
When you smoke something this special, log it in the Casa DNC app so you can find it again. Fans of this blend often reach for the Serie V Belicoso when they want a thicker, richer smoke.
Curious how it stacks up? See Cuban vs Nicaraguan cigars.
Oliva Serie V Lancero — frequently asked
- Is the Oliva Serie V Lancero a good cigar for beginners?
- Not as a first cigar. Full-bodied smokes are intense and high in nicotine — save it until you're comfortable with strength.
- How strong is the Oliva Serie V Lancero?
- The Oliva Serie V Lancero is Full-bodied — bold and high in nicotine. Strength is about body and nicotine rather than flavor, so eat something first and take it slow if you're sensitive.
- What does the Oliva Serie V Lancero taste like?
- Expect coffee, cedar, and pepper, leaning roast. Tasting notes are a guide — your palate may pick up more or less.
- What is the Oliva Serie V Lancero's rating?
- Published critic scores: Cigar Aficionado 94/100 (2019). Casa DNC aggregates third-party ratings and doesn't score cigars itself.
- What pairs well with the Oliva Serie V Lancero?
- It pairs well with espresso, aged rum, and neat whiskey. As a rule, match the drink's intensity to the cigar's full body.
- How long does it take to smoke the Oliva Serie V Lancero?
- Plan on about 60 minutes for the lancero — longer if you smoke slowly, which keeps it cool and tasting its best.
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Oliva Serie V Lancero head-to-head
See how Oliva Serie V Lancero stacks up against similar cigars — strength, flavor, and ratings.