The Rafael González Perlas represents a distinguished addition to the brand's regular production lineup, introduced to the market in 2012. This compact cigar delivers the classic Cuban smoking experience in a convenient format, embodying the elegant tradition that has defined the Rafael González marque for generations.
Specifications
| Name | Perlas |
| Factory Name | Perlas |
| Length | 102 mm (4 inches) |
| Ring Gauge | 40 |
| Official Weight | 5.91 grams |
| Construction | Handmade |
| Status | Current Regular Production |
| Release Year | 2012 |
Bands and Packaging
The Perlas features the standard band B and band C configuration consistent with the Rafael González presentation standards. The cigar is available in a dress box containing 25 cigars. A cardboard pack of 5 cigars was previously offered but was discontinued in 2017.
Flavor Profile and Tasting Notes
Based on extensive tasting reviews, the Rafael González Perlas offers a well-rounded flavor experience characterized primarily by cocoa and floral notes. The smoking profile reveals the following tasting characteristics:
- Primary Notes: Cocoa and floral elements dominate the palate, accompanied by honey sweetness
- Secondary Notes: Baking spice, earth, and pure tobacco flavors provide depth
- Supporting Elements: Nut, grass, citrus, and herbal undertones add complexity
- Accent Flavors: Leather, spice, cedar, and coffee contribute to the overall experience
- Subtle Nuances: Chocolate, cream, tamarind, toast, and the distinctive Cuban twang appear in select draws
Additional notes detected by experienced reviewers include wood, bitter chocolate, butter, hay, milk chocolate, mushroom, pepper, salt, and even sponge cake, demonstrating the cigar's remarkable flavor complexity within its compact dimensions.
Smoking Experience Ratings
The Perlas has garnered consistent ratings across key performance metrics, based on 202 individual reviews:
| Elegance | 3 out of 5 |
| Balance | 3 out of 5 |
| Strength | 3 out of 5 |
| Complexity | 3 out of 5 |
| Aftertaste | 3 out of 5 |
| Overall Rating | 3.58 out of 5 |
The Rafael González Perlas stands as a testament to the brand's commitment to quality, offering enthusiasts a medium-strength smoking experience with balanced complexity and a satisfying finish.