Bolivar Petit Corona
Short in length, outsized in character — the Bolivar Petit Corona proves that a compact Cuban cigar need not pull its punches. At 129mm, this vitola condenses the brand's trademark intensity into a format that can be enjoyed in roughly forty-five minutes, making it an ideal choice for the smoker who wants Bolivar's full-body experience without committing to a lengthy session. It is arguably the most accessible entry point into the marca without sacrificing any of the strength that defines it.
Tasting Notes
Right from the lighting, the Petit Corona delivers roasted coffee bean, damp earth, and a peppery kick that hits the back of the throat. The blend wastes no time establishing itself — there is no gentle warm-up period here. By the midpoint, dark cocoa and toasted almond join the mix, supported by a steady leathery undertone.
The final third brings a surge of black pepper and cedar smoke that rounds out the experience with satisfying finality. Given the shorter format, the transition between phases is swift, so the smoker is rewarded with rapid development rather than prolonged contemplation. Retrohale is sharp but rewarding, with notes of cinnamon and clove.
Construction
The Petit Corona uses 100% Vuelta Abajo long filler and is hand-rolled in Cuba. Wrapper colour ranges from colourado to colourado oscuro, and the cap work is characteristically neat. The 42 ring gauge provides a comfortable draw that is less prone to tightness than some of Bolivar's narrower offerings. Burn performance is reliable straight from the box, though a brief rest at 65% RH will optimise the experience. Ash is typically light grey and holds for an inch before needing a roll-off.
Pairing
The Petit Corona pairs well with a robust espresso or a double shot of Cuban coffee — the bitterness harmonises with the cigar's earthy core. For something stronger, an oaky bourbon with a high rye content cuts through the richness nicely. Aged rum remains the classic Cuban companion, especially a darker expression with molasses depth.
Brand Background
Bolivar traces its origins to 1901 Havana, founded by José Fernández Rocha and named after the South American revolutionary Simón Bolívar. The brand is marketed globally by Habanos S.A. and uses tobacco grown exclusively in the Vuelta Abajo region of Pinar del Río. More details are available on the Bolivar Wikipedia page.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the Bolivar Petit Corona take to smoke?
The Petit Corona typically takes 40 to 50 minutes to smoke, making it one of Bolivar's shortest yet most concentrated offerings.
What makes the Petit Corona different from the Corona Extra?
While both share the Bolivar full-body DNA, the Petit Corona (129mm x 42) is shorter than the Corona Extra (143mm x 40), resulting in a quicker, more intense session with less time for development between thirds.
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Further Reading
