The Buenaventura BV 500 is a unique cigar that’s been showing up a lot on Cigar Dojo and on other social media sites. People seem to rave about its great flavors and ultra low price, so I had to see for myself what this cigar is all about. The Buenaventura is made by a small boutique company in Nicaragua called Curivari. I like the branding of these cigars, which are made to look like “throw-back” old-school Cuban cigars. The Buenaventura that I will be reviewing is the BV 500, which is a Nicaraguan puro and it weighs in at a slender 5.25×50.
One of the most intriguing aspects of this cigar is its price. You can easily find a box of 10 for under $50 and if you look hard enough you might even be able to find that same box for $39. That’s just $3.90 per stick! It’s been awhile since I reviewed a cigar at that low of a price point.
After cutting, toasting, and lighting, there is a blast of flavor that is all about creamed coffee with a subtle sweet finish. I like a cigar that grabs my attention and this cigar did just that with a fantastic first impression.
Unfortunately my Buenaventura sprouted a large perpendicular crack about 2/3rds the way down the body of the cigar. While this was a fairly major crack, it didn’t seem to hurt the performance of the cigar. I asked around to folks that smoke these on a regular basis and none of them indicated that they had experienced any issues similar to mine, so I will chalk this up to the cigar’s care and storage at the B&M where I purchased it.
As I work my way into the stick the coffee flavor remains, but now it’s joined by a warm caramel and at times I pick up a hint of peppermint! I am truly blown away by the enjoyable warm and inviting flavors of this cigar. I’m starting to understand why Cigar Aficionado rated the BV560 vitola as their number 7 Cigar of 2013.
This isn’t necessarily a long burning cigar (maybe 45 minutes), but you certainly get your money’s worth in flavor. This medium strength – full flavored cigar has one final surprise in store as I reach the end: apple pie. Yes folks, a heaping helping of grandma’s warm caramel and cinnamon drenched apple pie!
Would I smoke this cigar again?
YES, YES, YES!! For the ridiculously low cost, this cigar would be a value at twice the price. The warm, interesting flavors had me thinking about this cigar well into the night. These are box worthy. I also believe the Buena Ventura BV 500 would be a great cigar to give to a person who was wanting to get into the cigar hobby.
Not even a cracked wrapper could stop me from enjoying this fun and affordable cigar from Curivari.
Short Link:
- Incredible value
- Cubanesque, easily enjoyable flavors
- Cracked wrappers on some samples
- Quick burner