Secret Treasures Rican Bartholomew Roberts 6x52

Bartholomew Roberts, also known as ‘Black Bart’, was one of the most successful and notorious pirates of the so-called Golden Age of Piracy. He was thought to have been born in 1682 as John Roberts in Casnewydd-Bach (now Little Newcastle) in Wales and began his seafaring career as a sailor on merchant ships.

Rise to Pirate Captain

Roberts fell into the hands of pirates in 1719 when the ship on which he was serving was captured by Captain Howell Davis. Davis quickly recognised the young Welsh sailor’s talent and forced him to join his crew. Following Davis’s death in an ambush, the crew held a vote and Roberts was elected captain. Although he was initially hesitant, he quickly grew into the role.

Roberts proved to be an exceptionally successful and tactically skilful pirate. During his career, which lasted around four years, he is estimated to have captured 400 ships, making him one of the most successful pirates of all time. His operations stretched from the coast of Africa across the Caribbean to the east coast of North America.

Style and Tactics

Bartholomew Roberts was known for his discipline and strict leadership style. Unlike many other pirates, he ensured that his crew remained organised and ready for battle. He was also known for his flamboyant appearance: Roberts often dressed in a red silk jacket, wore jewellery and a magnificent hat. His flagship, the Royal Fortune, flew a black flag bearing his likeness, on which he posed with a skull and crossbones.

Famous exploits

Roberts was involved in several spectacular exploits, including the capture of a Portuguese convoy off the coast of Brazil. There, he seized rich cargoes and even a clergyman laden with gold. His ability to outmanoeuvre large fleets earned him the respect of both his enemies and his allies.

Another highlight was the capture of more than 20 ships at once near Whydah (now Benin). Roberts was known for his daring and often managed to evade pursuit by Royal Navy fleets.

Downfall

Roberts’ career came to an abrupt end on 10 February 1722 off the coast of Gabon, when his ship was attacked by the British Navy under the command of Captain Chaloner Ogle. During the engagement, Roberts was fatally struck by a cannonball. According to his crew, he had stipulated in his will that his body should not fall into the hands of his enemies. They therefore threw him into the sea. Following his death, his crew were captured, and many of them were put on trial in one of the largest pirate trials in history. Most were executed, marking the end of Roberts’ influence and representing a turning point in the fight against piracy.

Secret Treasures Rican Bartholomew Roberts

The medium-bodied Secret Treasures Rican Bartholomew Roberts, produced in Costa Rica, pays tribute to the legend of Bartholomew Roberts, the elegant and daring pirate captain. The Toro format reflects Roberts’ balance of strength and sophistication, ideal for prolonged enjoyment. Made in Costa Rica, the cigar combines the finest craftsmanship with the spirit of adventure of Caribbean pirates. With earthy notes, a hint of pepper and woody aromas, it evokes the exotic spoils from Roberts’ raids. Perfect for connoisseurs seeking freedom and adventure in an elegant, flavourful format.

Tasting Notes

Cigar exterior: Sturdy , oily wrapper.
Cigar interior: Medium roll, well-constructed.
Smoke: Creamy with a hint of sweetness. Plenty of smoke volume.
Flavour: Earth , pepper, coffee and wood.
Burn: Good burn