Following in the footsteps of Oliva's critically acclaimed Oliva Serie V Melanio cigar—named to commemorate the first Oliva to enter into the tobacco industry—the company introduced the Gilberto Oliva Reserva series in 2017. This cigar is named for Melanio's grandson, Gilberto Oliva Sr., the man responsible for moving the Oliva family business out of Cuba during the Revolution, eventually laying the groundwork for the Nicaraguan-based Oliva brand we know and love today.

The Gilberto Oliva Reserva cigars launched in two varieties: Gilberto Oliva Reserva and Gilberto Oliva Reserva Blanc. Both cigars are hand rolled at the Olivas' famed factory in Nicaragua, being based on a core of Nicaraguan tobacco and bound in an Ecuadorian leaf. Where the blends differ is on the wrapper component. The Gilberto Oliva Reserva cigar offers a toothy Indonesian Sumatra wrapper; meanwhile, the Gilberto Oliva Reserva Blanc cigar turns to the more delicate intricacies of an Ecuadorian Connecticut wrapper leaf.

Both cigars showcase a refined look and feel, delivering quality smoking experiences with surprisingly affordable price points.