Rafael Gonzalez Lonsdale (NRG DEC05)

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The Rafael Gonzalez lonsdale is probably the best example of this lesser-known, but time-honored and distinguished marca.

It exhibits a definite box-press, which gives it a boxy, geometric appearance and hand-feel. The wrapper is light tan and silky smooth, showing fine veins. It is quite firm when rolled between the fingers. I found the unlit aromas to be unusually sweet and floral; the bouquet was so enchanting that I hesitated before putting the vitola to flame.

So, you can imagine my surprise when the initial draws were quite full-bodied and spicy. The core flavor profile is one of bittersweet nuts and spice, as if crushed walnuts were mixed with allspice, a little cinnamon, touches of habanero pepper, and a dollop of brown sugar. Hovering about in the background were complex floral notes and a light acidic twang. The finish was a delicious, lingering bittersweet spice that left my mouth watering in anticipation of the next draw. And the aroma was simply superb. The burn was even and clean, and the draw was perfectly firm, as you would expect from a well-crafted lonsdale.

Although it claims less than a year of box age, this RG lonsdale is already mature and balanced enough to satisfy even a discriminating palate. However, the inherent strength in the blend, its young tannic core, and latent complexity show great promise for the smoker patient enough to lay them down for another year... or three.

I found this to be a unique, paradoxical, and thought-provoking smoke. Alas, this elegant lonsdale has recently been discontinued by Habanos.