La Flor de Rafael Gonzalez Coronas de Lonsdales: A Hidden Cuban Gem

Konstantin Denishev
Nov 11, 2024
5 min read

Updated: Nov 13, 2024

The La Flor de Rafael Gonzalez Coronas de Lonsdales is a unique and refined cigar within the Cuban portfolio, celebrated for its balanced profile and delicate, nuanced flavours. Despite the name, it is neither a true Corona nor a Lonsdale; the cigar is technically a Hermosos No.4. This medium-bodied smoke is a true delight for those who appreciate the subtle intricacies and craftsmanship synonymous with Cuban cigars.

Flavour Profile

The Coronas de Lonsdales offers a smooth and complex flavour experience, perfect for a 45 to 60-minute session. Aging these cigars can further enhance their depth and smoothness, bringing out more rounded and refined notes.

First Third: The opening draws of this cigar reveal a gentle mix of cedar and earthy tones, accompanied by a mild sweetness that hints at honey. A light spice follows, balanced and subtle, setting the stage for the more intricate flavours that emerge as the cigar warms up. The smoke is creamy, with a soft touch of vanilla that adds a refined sweetness to the profile.
Second Third: As you move into the second third, the Coronas de Lonsdales starts to show its complexity. The sweetness deepens, taking on a slightly caramelised note that adds richness without overwhelming the palate. Creamy coffee and cocoa become more pronounced, blending harmoniously with hints of nutmeg and cinnamon. This middle portion is particularly enjoyable, offering a smooth yet layered profile that’s complex enough to keep even seasoned smokers engaged.
Final Third: In the final third, the cigar introduces a bolder array of flavours. The creaminess persists, but is now joined by richer notes of leather and toasted nuts. A slight peppery undertone reappears, adding a bit of spice to the finish. The flavours are balanced and cohesive, with a warm, lingering aftertaste of cedar, cocoa, and leather, making for a satisfying and memorable end to the experience.

Vitola Details and Presentation

Here are the specifications for the La Flor de Rafael Gonzalez Coronas de Lonsdales:

Factory Name: Hermosos No.4
Dimensions: Ring gauge 48 x Length 127 mm (5 inches)
Construction: Handmade in Cuba
Wrapper: Cuban
Binder & Filler: Cuban
Strength: Medium-bodied
Packaging: Available in Semi Boîte Nature (SBN) boxes containing 10 cigars, making it an elegant choice for both collectors and enthusiasts

The Hermosos No.4 vitola, with its balanced length and ring gauge, provides an enjoyable medium-length smoking session, typically lasting between 45 to 60 minutes. This size is perfect for appreciating the rich nuances of the Rafael Gonzalez blend, allowing each layer of flavour to shine through without becoming too intense.

The Heritage of Rafael Gonzalez

The Rafael Gonzalez brand has long been admired for its balanced and nuanced cigars, appealing to those who seek refined flavours rather than overpowering strength. The Coronas de Lonsdales is a classic expression of the brand’s style, showcasing a sophisticated blend that embodies Cuban craftsmanship. Known for smooth, approachable profiles with subtle complexity, Rafael Gonzalez cigars are prized by those who appreciate the art of slow-smoking and nuanced flavours.

Construction and Craftsmanship

The Coronas de Lonsdales is meticulously crafted, featuring a light brown, slightly oily wrapper that enhances the cigar’s overall appearance. Its construction is impeccable, with minimal veins and a firm, even feel along the length of the cigar. The draw is smooth, allowing for ample smoke output without resistance, and the burn is consistent, producing a solid ash that holds well throughout the smoke.

Each cigar is hand-rolled by skilled torcedores in Cuba, with quality control that ensures a consistent experience from box to box. The craftsmanship is evident in the cigar’s seamless burn and easy draw, providing a pleasurable and uninterrupted smoking experience that highlights the quality of the tobaccos used.

Ideal Pairings

To complement the balanced and creamy flavours of the Coronas de Lonsdales, consider pairing it with drinks that enhance its smooth, nuanced profile:

Aged Rum: The sweetness and richness of an aged rum, particularly one with notes of caramel and vanilla, will complement the cigar’s creamy and nutty undertones, creating a harmonious pairing.
Lightly Peated Scotch: A sherry-cask-aged Scotch or a lightly peated single malt enhances the cigar’s earthy and cedar notes while adding depth to the experience.
Cognac: A good Cognac, with its warm, fruity notes, is an excellent match for the cigar’s subtle sweetness and cocoa flavours.
Espresso or Cappuccino: The bold, roasted notes of espresso bring out the cigar’s coffee and cocoa undertones, while a cappuccino can add a creamy element to highlight the vanilla and caramel notes.

A Balanced and Refined Cuban Experience

The La Flor de Rafael Gonzalez Coronas de Lonsdales offers a balanced and refined Cuban cigar experience, perfect for those who appreciate a medium-bodied smoke with layered complexity. Its smooth and subtle profile makes it accessible for newcomers, yet its depth and intricacies will appeal to seasoned aficionados as well. With its soft cedar notes, creamy coffee, and hints of sweetness, this cigar is ideal for moments of relaxation and reflection.

Rating for La Flor de Rafael Gonzalez Coronas de Lonsdales

Here’s how the Coronas de Lonsdales scores based on my rating system:

Appearance: 9/10 – Elegant and well-constructed, with a smooth wrapper and minimal veins.
Aroma: 8/10 – Soft and inviting, with cedar and subtle hints of vanilla.
Flavour: 18/20 – Complex yet balanced, with a smooth progression of cream, coffee, and toasted nuts.
Draw: 9/10 – Consistent and smooth, with an effortless draw that produces creamy smoke.
Burn: 9/10 – Even and sharp, with a stable ash that holds well.
Construction: 10/10 – Impeccable craftsmanship, reflecting the high quality of the Rafael Gonzalez brand.
Strength: 8/10 – Medium-bodied, offering a refined experience without overwhelming the palate.
Finish: 9/10 – Smooth, lingering, and satisfying, with a soft, creamy aftertaste.
Overall Experience: 9/10 – A sophisticated and enjoyable smoke that embodies the essence of a refined Cuban cigar.

Total Score: 89/100

Watch My Full Video Review!

For a more comprehensive look at the La Flor de Rafael Gonzalez Coronas de Lonsdales, be sure to check out my full video review! In the video, I dive deeper into the cigar’s flavour profile, construction quality, and ideal pairings, sharing my insights on what makes this Cuban classic a must-try for aficionados and newcomers alike.

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