La Gloria Cubana Médaille d'Or No. 4: Elegance in a Slim Format

Konstantin Denishev
Oct 28, 2024
4 min read

Updated: Mar 13

The La Gloria Cubana Médaille d'Or No. 4 stands as a refined example of the classic Cuban cigar tradition. With its slender Panetela format, this cigar harks back to an era where elegance and subtlety were the defining traits of a premium smoke.

Known for its smooth and sophisticated profile, the Médaille d'Or No. 4 remains a favourite among connoisseurs who appreciate the delicate and nuanced experience that La Gloria Cubana delivers.

Flavour Profile

The Médaille d'Or No. 4 is a medium-bodied cigar that offers a gentle yet complex flavour journey. From the first draw, you're introduced to a combination of honey, toasted nuts, and a touch of light coffee, setting the stage for a sweet and creamy start. The cigar’s natural sweetness is balanced by a subtle woodiness and hints of cinnamon, which develop as you progress through the smoke.

Moving into the second third, the flavours become more intricate. Cedar and toasted bread come to the forefront, accompanied by mild hints of vanilla and nutmeg. The cigar maintains a smooth creaminess, ensuring the flavours blend seamlessly without any sharp transitions. By the final third, a light spice emerges, along with deeper notes of leather and a faint earthiness, providing a satisfying finish that lingers on the palate.

The slender format allows for a more concentrated delivery of flavours, enabling the wrapper’s characteristics to shine. This makes the Médaille d'Or No. 4 a cigar best enjoyed slowly, allowing each layer of taste to reveal itself gradually.

Vitola Details

Here are the specifications for the La Gloria Cubana Médaille d'Or No. 4:

Factory Name: Palmitas
Dimensions: Ring gauge 32 x Length 152 mm (6 inches)
Construction: Handmade in Cuba
Wrapper: Cuban
Binder & Filler: Cuban
Strength: Medium-bodied
Packaging: Varnished boxes of 25 cigars

The Palmitas vitola, with its slim 32 ring gauge and 6-inch length, offers a smoking time of approximately 35 to 45 minutes. This format delivers a more focused and refined experience, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter, more delicate cigar that still carries depth and complexity.

The Heritage of La Gloria Cubana

La Gloria Cubana is a brand that carries a rich history, dating back to 1885. Known for its sophisticated and well-balanced blends, it has earned a reputation for cigars that embody elegance and smoothness. The Médaille d'Or line, in particular, represents some of the most refined offerings within the brand, focusing on quality construction and subtle, nuanced flavours. The Médaille d'Or No. 4 is a tribute to this tradition, maintaining the classic Cuban style while offering a unique format that sets it apart in a market dominated by larger ring gauge cigars.

Construction and Craftsmanship

The Médaille d'Or No. 4 is meticulously crafted, featuring a smooth, light wrapper that is free from major veins, giving it a sleek and refined appearance. Despite its slim size, the cigar is well-packed, ensuring an even burn and consistent draw throughout the smoking experience. The ash tends to hold firm but may fall off in shorter chunks due to the thinner gauge. Smokers should take care to puff slowly, allowing the cigar to maintain its cool, smooth draw and avoiding any harshness.

The attention to detail in the construction highlights the skill of the Cuban torcedores who have mastered the art of rolling slender cigars. This craftsmanship ensures that each Médaille d'Or No. 4 provides a balanced and enjoyable smoke, true to the La Gloria Cubana name.

Perfect Pairings

To enhance the flavours of the Médaille d'Or No. 4, consider pairing it with:

Champagne: The crisp, effervescent profile of Champagne complements the cigar’s subtle sweetness, making for an elegant and refined combination.
Cognac: A well-aged Cognac will bring out the deeper, more complex notes of honey, cedar, and spice, offering a warm and harmonious pairing.
Espresso: The rich, bold flavours of a medium-roast espresso or an americano will highlight the nutty and creamy elements of the cigar, creating a smooth and balanced finish.

A Classic Worth Revisiting

The La Gloria Cubana Médaille d'Or No. 4 is a delightful tribute to the traditional Cuban cigar-making style. Its slim format offers a smoking experience that is both sophisticated and accessible, perfect for those who appreciate refined flavours without overwhelming strength. Whether you are a seasoned aficionado or new to the world of Cuban cigars, the Médaille d'Or No. 4 is a classic worth experiencing, embodying the elegance and tradition that has defined La Gloria Cubana for over a century.

Rating for La Gloria Cubana Médaille d'Or No. 4

Here’s how the Médaille d'Or No. 4 scores based on my rating system:

Appearance: 9/10 – Sleek, elegant, and well-constructed with a smooth wrapper.
Aroma: 10/10 – Light and inviting, with hints of honey, cedar, and nuts.
Flavour: 19/20 – Smooth, complex, and balanced, with layers of sweetness, wood, and spice.
Draw: 8/10 – Generally good, though it can be slightly tight due to the slim gauge.
Burn: 8/10 – Even burn throughout, though the ash may fall off more easily.
Construction: 9/10 – Well-crafted, firm, and consistent, highlighting excellent craftsmanship.
Strength: 7/10 – Medium-bodied, offering a refined experience suitable for various occasions.
Finish: 8/10 – Creamy, smooth, and satisfying, with a gentle lingering spice.
Overall Experience: 9/10 – A classic and elegant cigar that stands out for its balance and complexity.

Total Score: 87/100

Watch My Full Video Review!

For a deeper dive into the La Gloria Cubana Médaille d'Or No. 4 , be sure to check out my full video review! I explore the intricate flavour profile, ideal pairings, and give an up-close look at the construction and craftsmanship that make this a standout cigar.

Stay Connected!

For more detailed cigar reviews, discussions, and exclusive updates, make sure to follow, like, share, and subscribe to my channels! Join me on social media where we dive deep into the world of premium cigars. Stay up to date with the latest reviews, tips, and special event announcements. You can find me on: