Few cigars capture the elegance of a slender vitola like the Bolívar Tubos No.3, a discontinued format that served enthusiasts for decades. Originally released prior to 1960, this cigar carried the Bolívar name with distinction for over half a century before production officially ceased in 2019, though examples continued to roll off the line as recently as 2022.
Specifications
| Cigar Name | Bolívar Tubos No.3 |
| Factory Name | Placeras |
| Ring Gauge | 34 |
| Length | 125 mm (4⅞″) |
| Official Weight | 5.27 g |
| Construction | Handmade |
| Status | Discontinued (2019) |
Packaging and Presentation
The Tubos No.3 was presented in dress boxes containing 25 cigars, each protected within its own aluminium tube. The tubes received an updated design around 2009, modernizing the presentation while maintaining the classic Bolívar aesthetic. Earlier in its history, the cigar was also available in larger cajón format containing 100 cigars, though this packaging option was phased out during the 1960s.
The band configuration featured the standard Bolívar bands A, B, C, and D, consistent with the brand's traditional presentation.
Flavor Profile and Tasting Notes
Based on 13 enthusiast reviews, the Bolívar Tubos No.3 earned solid ratings across all measured categories, achieving an overall score of 4.23 out of 5. Reviewers rated elegance, balance, strength, complexity, and aftertaste each at 4 out of 5, indicating a well-rounded and satisfying smoking experience.
The flavor profile proved distinctive and memorable, with the following characteristics reported:
- Dominant Notes: Cayenne appeared most frequently (12 mentions), followed by earth (6 mentions) and spice (3 mentions)
- Secondary Notes: Citrus peel, coffee, honey, leather, mint, pepper, tea, and vanilla each garnered 2 mentions
- Subtle Accents: Baking spice, cardamom tea, cedar, cinnamon, floral, fruit, ginger, marzipan, sweet BBQ, tobacco, and Turkish delight each appeared once
This complex flavor spectrum suggests a cigar that delivered both the robust earthiness Bolívar fans expect and surprising layers of sweetness and spice, all wrapped in a slender format that concentrated and intensified the experience.
Legacy
Though officially discontinued, the Bolívar Tubos No.3 remains a sought-after find for collectors and enthusiasts who appreciate its unique combination of slender dimensions and full-flavored Bolívar character. Its decades-long production run speaks to the enduring appeal of this distinctive vitola.