What is the vitola size of La Gloria Cubana Medaille d'Or No.4?

The La Gloria Cubana Medaille d'Or No.4 features a specific vitola size known as the Palmitas, measuring 146mm (5.7 inches) in length with a 36 ring gauge. This slender format places it firmly in the category of a classic Panatela, a shape that requires distinct rolling expertise. The dimensions allow for a concentrated flavor profile, as the narrower ring gauge tends to emphasize the wrapper leaf's contribution to the overall taste. It remains one of the more traditional sizes found within the brand's current portfolio.

What flavors can I expect from La Gloria Cubana Medaille d'Or No.4?

Smokers can anticipate a medium-bodied experience defined by characteristic Cuban earthiness and prominent woody notes. The Palmitas format delivers distinct herbal nuances and a mild spiciness that persists throughout the smoke. Due to the 36 ring gauge, the flavor intensity is concentrated, offering clear impressions of leather and toasted nuts rather than the broader flavor spectrum found in thicker robustos. The cigar provides a refined smoking duration of roughly 30 to 45 minutes, making it suitable for those preferring a shorter, flavorful session.

Is La Gloria Cubana Medaille d'Or No.4 a strong cigar?

No, the Medaille d'Or No.4 is classified as mild to medium in strength, aligning with the historical profile of the La Gloria Cubana marca. It is crafted entirely from premium Cuban tobacco sourced from the Vuelta Abajo region, utilizing a wrapper leaf known for its silky texture and subtle flavor contribution. This cigar is appropriate for enthusiasts who prefer nuanced, aromatic smokes rather than high-intensity, full-bodied blends. Its strength level allows the complex notes of cedar and dried fruit to remain prominent without being overwhelmed by potent nicotine impact.

What is the vitola size of La Gloria Cubana Medaille d'Or No.4?

The La Gloria Cubana Medaille d'Or No.4 features a specific vitola size known as the Palmitas, measuring 146mm (5.7 inches) in length with a 36 ring gauge. This slender format places it firmly in the category of a classic Panatela, a shape that requires distinct rolling expertise. The dimensions allow for a concentrated flavor profile, as the narrower ring gauge tends to emphasize the wrapper leaf's contribution to the overall taste. It remains one of the more traditional sizes found within the brand's current portfolio.

What flavors can I expect from La Gloria Cubana Medaille d'Or No.4?

Smokers can anticipate a medium-bodied experience defined by characteristic Cuban earthiness and prominent woody notes. The Palmitas format delivers distinct herbal nuances and a mild spiciness that persists throughout the smoke. Due to the 36 ring gauge, the flavor intensity is concentrated, offering clear impressions of leather and toasted nuts rather than the broader flavor spectrum found in thicker robustos. The cigar provides a refined smoking duration of roughly 30 to 45 minutes, making it suitable for those preferring a shorter, flavorful session.

Is La Gloria Cubana Medaille d'Or No.4 a strong cigar?

No, the Medaille d'Or No.4 is classified as mild to medium in strength, aligning with the historical profile of the La Gloria Cubana marca. It is crafted entirely from premium Cuban tobacco sourced from the Vuelta Abajo region, utilizing a wrapper leaf known for its silky texture and subtle flavor contribution. This cigar is appropriate for enthusiasts who prefer nuanced, aromatic smokes rather than high-intensity, full-bodied blends. Its strength level allows the complex notes of cedar and dried fruit to remain prominent without being overwhelmed by potent nicotine impact.

Cigar Information

La Gloria Cubana Medaille d'Or No.4

The Medaille d'Or No.4 stands as one of the most distinguished offerings within the La Gloria Cubana portfolio. This elegant cigar, known by its factory name "Palmitas," represents the refined character that has made its marque a favorite among discerning aficionados since well before the Cuban Revolution. As a current regular production cigar, it continues to uphold the traditions of fine Cuban cigar making.

History and Status

The Medaille d'Or No.4 boasts a heritage dating back to pre-1960 Cuba, making it one of the more historically significant cigars in continuous production. Its enduring presence in the La Gloria Cubana lineup speaks to its timeless appeal and the enduring quality of its blend. The cigar has remained in regular production since January 1, 1960, carrying forward decades of Cuban cigar craftsmanship.

La Gloria Cubana Medaille d'Or No.4 packaging

Specifications

Vitola	Palmitas
Length	152 mm (6 inches)
Ring Gauge	32
Official Weight	5.68 grams
Construction	Handmade
Bands	Standard bands A and B

Presentation

The Medaille d'Or No.4 is presented in a varnished 8-9-8 box containing 25 cigars, a classic presentation that showcases the slender elegance of this vitola. Historically, the cigar was also available in a varnished flat 8-9-8 box of 10 cigars, though this packaging format was discontinued around 2003. The standard bands A and B adorn each cigar, providing the traditional La Gloria Cubana visual identity.

Flavor Profile

With its slender 32 ring gauge, the Medaille d'Or No.4 delivers a distinctive smoking experience that emphasizes delicacy and refinement. The cigar has garnered consistently positive feedback from enthusiasts, achieving an overall rating of 4.16 out of 5 based on 61 reviews.

Ratings Breakdown:

Elegance: 4/5
Balance: 4/5
Strength: 2/5
Complexity: 4/5
Aftertaste: 4/5

The Medaille d'Or No.4 presents itself as a mild to medium-bodied cigar, scoring notably low on strength while excelling in elegance, balance, and complexity. This profile makes it an excellent choice for those seeking a sophisticated, nuanced smoke without overwhelming power.

Tasting Notes

Based on smoker reviews, the Medaille d'Or No.4 offers a rich tapestry of flavors. The most prominent notes include:

Primary Notes: Fruit and wood dominate the flavor profile, reported by 39 and 34 reviewers respectively
Secondary Notes: Cream (24), almond (19), and herbal qualities (18) provide substantial depth
Supporting Notes: Spice (14), floral (12), and nut (12) elements add complexity
Accent Notes: Citrus (10), pepper (10), lemon (6), cedar (4), and vanilla (4) appear throughout the smoking experience

Additional nuanced flavors reported include cherry, earth, coffee, shortbread, toast, and occasional hints of banana, butter, cake, grass, hay, honey, marzipan, spiced cake, and twangy stone fruit. This diverse flavor spectrum contributes to the cigar's reputation for complexity despite its gentle strength.

Questions & Answers

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