The NUB Connecticut 354 by Oliva is a fantastic Nicaraguan handmade cigar that has earned a loyal following among cigar aficionados, especially the everyday smoker. This short, stout cigar offers a satisfying smoking experience packed with flavor and balance. Despite its smaller size, it offers a surprising depth of complexity, making it a popular choice among those seeking a shorter yet robust smoke. LM Cigars offers the NUB Connecticut 354 as well as its cousins at the best prices available. This review will detail the tremendous value of NUB cigars. Whether you’re a seasoned smoker or a beginner looking for a mellow introduction to cigars, the NUB Connecticut 354 offers a memorable experience worth exploring. It’s a great stick—nuff said!
Long legacy, quick smoke
The Oliva Cigar Company has a rich history rooted in Cuban tobacco traditions. Established in 1886, the Oliva family’s legacy began with Melanio Oliva, a Cuban tobacco grower known for his expertise in cultivating high-quality tobacco leaves. Following political turmoil and the Cuban revolution, the Oliva family fled Cuba and established their cigar empire in Nicaragua, a country now recognized as a world leader in premium tobacco production. Today, Oliva cigars are known worldwide for their exceptional craftsmanship and superior-quality tobacco.
In 2016, Oliva Cigars was acquired by the Vandermarliere Cigar Family (VCF), a Belgian company renowned for producing J. Cortes cigars. This acquisition enabled Oliva to expand its production capabilities while preserving its commitment to traditional craftsmanship and quality. Under VCF ownership, Oliva has continued to deliver top-tier cigars that appeal to both seasoned smokers and newer enthusiasts seeking a premium smoking experience.
Oliva’s diverse range of cigars is designed to cater to various preferences. For those who enjoy bold and powerful cigars, the Oliva Serie V is a full-bodied powerhouse featuring complex spice notes and rich chocolate undertones. On the other hand, the Oliva Serie G provides a medium-bodied experience with its distinctive Cameroon wrapper and earthy, woody flavor profile. The Oliva Connecticut Reserve offers a smooth repose, tasting of cedar and hay. Meanwhile, the NUB Series takes a unique approach by focusing on delivering the “sweet spot” of flavor right from the beginning. Available in several wrapper options, including Connecticut, Habano, and Maduro, the NUB series emphasizes flavor intensity in a shorter format that smokes longer than its size might suggest.
To the NUB
The NUB Connecticut 354 is a standout member of the NUB lineup, known for its balance, creamy texture, and smooth smoking experience. Expertly crafted using a meticulous blend of premium tobacco leaves, it creates a signature smooth yet complex flavor profile. The wrapper is an Ecuadorian Connecticut leaf, celebrated for its silky, light tan appearance. Grown under shade to produce a thinner leaf with minimal veins, this delicate wrapper delivers a smooth texture and mild flavor. Smokers can expect notes of cream, butter, and subtle cedar from this refined leaf, offering a delicate balance that sets the tone for the entire smoking experience.
Complementing this mild wrapper is the Nicaraguan binder, which introduces a layer of complexity to the overall profile. Nicaraguan tobacco is prized for its rich, earthy characteristics, which help deepen the cigar’s flavor while allowing the Connecticut wrapper’s delicate notes to shine through. The Nicaraguan filler further enhances the flavor by adding bolder elements such as pepper, coffee, and earthy undertones. This well-balanced blend ensures the NUB Connecticut 354maintains its smooth and creamy nature while adding just enough spice and richness to keep the experience intriguing.
Review
Before lighting, the NUB Connecticut 354 greets smokers with a pleasant pre-light aroma featuring hints of hay, cedar, and light spice. The cold draw offers a preview of the cigar’s creaminess, with subtle notes of toasted bread, almonds, and nuts emerging — a promising indication of a smooth and flavorful smoke to come. Upon lighting, the NUB Connecticut 354 immediately reveals a wave of creamy richness. Dominating notes of toasted almonds, butter, and a soft cedar undertone provide a smooth, mellow start. This initial profile makes it an ideal companion for morning smokers who enjoy a cigar alongside a warm cup of coffee.
As the cigar progresses into the second third, a gentle evolution in flavor emerges. Subtle hints of white pepper and nutmeg develop, adding dimension to the creamy base. The Nicaraguan filler contributes a slightly spicier kick at this stage, ensuring the cigar maintains a layered yet smooth character. The burn remains consistent with excellent smoke output, demonstrating the cigar’s expert construction. In the final third, the NUB Connecticut 354 offers a delightful crescendo of flavor. Richer notes of caramel, roasted nuts, and underlying earthy tones create a satisfying complexity without overwhelming the palate. The creamy sweetness of the Ecuadorian Connecticut wrapper lingers, ensuring a smooth and mellow finish that’s both memorable and enjoyable. The impressive flavor evolution is a testament to the thoughtful blending process behind this expertly crafted cigar.
The NUB Connecticut 354 stands out for several key reasons. Its compact yet stout size ensures smokers experience the cigar’s optimal flavor from the very first puff. Its mild Connecticut wrapper, combined with the richness of Nicaraguan binder and filler, creates a creamy yet layered flavor profile that evolves throughout the smoke. The cigar’s reliable construction is noteworthy, with an even burn, robust smoke output, and consistent draw making every smoking session enjoyable. Finally, its smaller size makes it ideal for those seeking a satisfying yet time-conscious smoke without sacrificing complexity.
The NUB Connecticut 354 pairs beautifully with a variety of beverages that enhance its creamy and nutty profile. A rich espresso or creamy latte makes an excellent pairing for morning smokers, while a lightly oaked Chardonnay accentuates the cigar’s cedar and buttery flavors. For those seeking a bolder contrast, a mellow bourbon with hints of vanilla and caramel offers a satisfying balance to the cigar’s sweeter undertones.
The NUB Connecticut 354 by Oliva is an exceptional cigar that masterfully balances mild creaminess with nuanced spice and cedar. Its compact size makes it perfect for smokers seeking a premium smoking experience without a lengthy time commitment. NUB Connecticut 354 is in stock on LM Cigars now. It is available in a box or a five count NUB sampler. Whether you’re a novice exploring milder cigars or an aficionado seeking a refined yet accessible smoke, the NUB Connecticut 354 is an outstanding choice for your humidor. Enjoy this expertly crafted cigar with your favorite drink, and savor each creamy, nutty puff.