Oliva · Serie V Melanio
New WorldExperienced smokersOliva Serie V Melanio Robusto
The Robusto from Oliva's award-winning Serie V Melanio — an Ecuadorian Sumatra wrapper over Jalapa tobacco, refined and box-pressed.
Critic ratings
Cigar Aficionado
2016
94/100
Scores as published by each reviewer. Casa DNC aggregates third-party ratings; we don't score cigars ourselves.
The Serie V Melanio is Oliva's prestige blend, named for late patriarch Gilberto Oliva's father, Melanio. The line famously earned Cigar Aficionado's #1 Cigar of the Year in 2014, and the Robusto is the most approachable way to see what the fuss is about.
What it tastes like
Where the standard Serie V is full and punchy, the Melanio is more refined. A silky Ecuadorian Sumatra wrapper sits over aged Jalapa Valley Nicaraguan tobacco, giving a medium-to-full smoke with peppery notes of caramel and wood and a distinct creaminess on the finish. It's complex without being heavy, and the box press makes for an effortless draw.
Who it's for
This is a cigar for someone who wants depth and polish in one stick — experienced enough to appreciate the layering, but not looking to get knocked over. If you're weighing it against the original, our note on Cuban vs Nicaraguan cigars frames the style, and the cigar strength guide helps set expectations.
A cigar this good is worth tracking — log and rate it in your humidor with the Casa DNC app. If you want the same blend with more length, try the Serie V Melanio Toro.
Curious how it stacks up? See Cuban vs Nicaraguan cigars.
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Oliva Serie V Melanio Robusto head-to-head
See how Oliva Serie V Melanio Robusto stacks up against similar cigars — strength, flavor, and ratings.