The Bolívar Panetelas was a classic Cuban cigar that carried the proud heritage of the Bolívar brand for decades. This machine-made vitola offered enthusiasts an accessible entry point into the bold, full-flavored world that Bolívar cigars are renowned for, before being discontinued in 2002.
History and Background
The Panetelas format from Bolívar traces its origins to the pre-1960 era, making it one of the brand's longstanding offerings throughout the golden age of Cuban cigars. For over four decades, this cigar maintained its place in the regular production lineup until its eventual discontinuation on January 1, 2002.
Specifications
| Cigar Name | Panetelas |
| Factory Name | Conchitas |
| Ring Gauge | 35 |
| Length | 127 mm (5 inches) |
| Official Weight | 5.29 grams |
| Construction | Machine-made |
| Band | Standard band A |
Presentation and Packaging
The Bolívar Panetelas was presented in elegant dress boxes, available in two configurations:
- Dress box of 10 cigars, each wrapped in cellophane
- Dress box of 25 cigars, each wrapped in cellophane
The individual cellophane sleeves provided additional protection and helped preserve the cigars' condition, making them practical choices for both immediate enjoyment and shorter-term storage.
Construction and Character
As a machine-made cigar, the Panetelas represented the more accessible segment of Bolívar's portfolio. Despite its machine-rolled construction, the cigar carried the characteristic Bolívar DNA—expecting the robust, earthy, and full-bodied profile that has made the brand a favorite among experienced smokers who appreciate intensity and depth in their smoking experience.
The slender 35 ring gauge combined with the 5-inch length created a classic Panetelas format, offering a focused smoking experience that emphasized the core flavor characteristics of the Bolívar blend in a more concentrated form.