Bolívar Palmas
The Bolívar Palmas stands as a notable entry in the storied history of Cuban cigar production, representing an era when the Bolívar brand offered a more extensive portfolio of vitolas to discerning smokers. This particular format has since been retired, making it a sought-after piece for collectors and enthusiasts of vintage Cuban tobacco.
History and Background
The Palmas was introduced prior to 1960, placing it among the classic releases from the Bolívar brand during Cuba's golden age of cigar manufacturing. The cigar remained in production for approximately two and a half decades before being discontinued in the mid-1980s. During its production run, the Palmas represented Bolívar's commitment to offering diverse format options within their regular production lineup.
Vitola Specifications

The Bolívar Palmas was produced under the factory name "Ninfas," a designation that identifies this specific dimensions and format within Cuban cigar nomenclature.
| Specification | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Ring Gauge | 33 |
| Length | 178 mm (7 inches) |
| Official Weight | 7.07 grams |
| Construction | Handmade |
| Band | Standard Band A |
| Packaging | Dress box of 25 cigars |
Format and Smoking Experience
With its slender 33 ring gauge and generous 7-inch length, the Palmas exemplified the classic "lancero-style" smoking experience that was once far more prevalent in Cuban cigar offerings. This elegant, thin format typically delivers a concentrated flavor profile, as the smaller ring gauge creates a higher wrapper-to-filler ratio. Smokers could expect the characteristic Bolívar intensity—known for robust, earthy, and full-bodied characteristics—channeled through a more refined and focused presentation.
Collectibility and Legacy
As a discontinued regular production cigar, the Bolívar Palmas has transitioned from a standard retail offering to a collector's item. Well-preserved examples from the pre-embargo and early post-revolutionary periods represent important artifacts of Cuban cigar history. The discontinuation of this vitola reflects broader industry trends toward thicker ring gauges, making the Palmas a reminder of an earlier era when slender formats dominated premium cigar portfolios.
Related Releases
- All Bolívar Cigars
