Bolivar Royal Corona (Tubos)
The aluminium tube is one of the oldest and most practical innovations in Cuban cigar presentation, and the Bolivar Royal Corona Tubos puts it to straightforward use. Same cigar, same blend, same 124mm by 50 Robusto vitola — but sealed in individual tubes that protect the wrapper from damage and provide a degree of humidity buffer. For smokers who travel, who keep cigars in a desk drawer, or who want a single smoke without unpacking a humidor, the Tubos presentation is the practical answer. The trade-off is a slightly different aging dynamic: tubes slow moisture exchange, which means tube-stored cigars age more gradually than their dress-box counterparts. For a full-strength Bolivar, that can be an advantage.
Tasting Notes
The flavour profile is identical to the standard Bolivar Royal Corona — the tube does not change the blend. What changes is the condition of the cigar when you smoke it. Tube-stored cigars tend to arrive at a slightly lower humidity than dress-box cigars, which means the first few draws can be a touch sharper and more peppery. Let the cigar acclimatise in a humidor for two to four weeks before smoking if you prefer a softer opening.
The core profile is pure Bolivar: dry earth, black pepper, cedar, and leather from the first third, developing through coffee and dark cocoa in the middle, and finishing with the brand's characteristic full-strength intensity — charred wood, espresso bitterness, and a lingering pepper that stays on the palate. The 50-ring Robusto format keeps the smoke cool and voluminous throughout.
The final third peaks as Bolivar should. The tube presentation has no effect on how the cigar finishes — strong, bitter-sweet, and unapologetically bold.
Construction and Draw
The tubes protect the wrapper from the minor scuffs and dings that dress-box cigars accumulate, so the wrapper on a Tubos cigar is typically pristine. The construction underneath is identical to the standard Royal Corona: open draw, triple cap, even burn line. The tube itself requires a firm twist to open — check that the inner cedar sleeve is intact, as it contributes to the cigar's condition during storage.
Pairing Suggestions
Same pairings as the standard Royal Corona: aged rum, high-rye bourbon, or a dry Irish stout. Espresso through the final third. The tube makes this the most travel-friendly version of the Royal Corona — it is the format to take to a dinner, a golf course, or a hotel room without worrying about wrapper damage.
Value and Collectibility
The Tubos presentation commands a modest premium over the dress-box equivalent, reflecting the cost of the tubes themselves. For practical smokers who want protection and portability, the premium is justified. For cellaring, tubes age more slowly — if your goal is long-term aging, consider removing the cigars from the tubes and storing them in a humidor or cedar-lined box.
Brand Background
Founded in 1902, Bolivar is named for Simón Bolívar, the South American liberator. The brand is distributed by Habanos S.A. and uses Vuelta Abajo leaf exclusively. All cigars are made totalmente a mano. See Wikipedia for more.
Storage
65–70% RH, 18–20°C. Tubos cigars can be stored in their tubes inside a humidor — moisture will slowly permeate the tube's seal. For faster acclimatisation or aging, remove from tubes and place in a humidor. If storing in tubes long-term, open each tube monthly to allow air exchange and prevent mould.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the tube change the flavour of the cigar?
No. The tube is a storage and protection container, not a flavour component. The blend, wrapper, filler, and construction are identical to the standard Bolivar Royal Corona. The only difference is the aging dynamic — tube-stored cigars age more slowly.
Can I store Tubos cigars outside a humidor?
For short periods (days to a couple of weeks), the tube provides some protection, but it is not a substitute for proper humidification. For anything beyond short-term transport, store in a humidor. The tube's seal slows moisture exchange but does not stop it.
Why choose Tubos over the standard dress box?
Portability and protection. If you travel with cigars, keep singles at work, or want a smoke that can survive a jacket pocket intact, Tubos is the practical choice. If you are cellaring cigars at home, the dress box or cabinet format ages more predictably.
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