2023 saw the release of Rafael Gonzalez Coronas de Lonsdales, a sophisticated Cuban puro. Despite the name, it is a thicker Hermoso No. 4 vitola rather than a Corona or Lonsdale. It is well recognised for offering classic Cuban complexity and refinement at a reasonably affordable price point.

First Third: Has a delicate, creamy profile. Light floral and herbal scents accompany the initial notes of milk chocolate, vanilla, and sweet cedar.

Second Third: Roasted nuts and toasted wood emerge from the sweetness. The texture remains smooth and uniform while a core of leather, coffee beans, and soil develops.

Last Third: The body moves a little closer to the medium range. Dark chocolate and baking spice (cinnamon) flavours intensify, culminating in a lingering cedar and white pepper spice on the retrohale.