Rafael González Petit Lonsdales

Behind every retired vitola lies a unique history, and the Rafael González Petit Lonsdales enjoyed a production run spanning several decades before leaving Cuban catalogs. As part of the esteemed Rafael González brand portfolio, this cigar exemplified the classic Cuban smoking tradition during its time in regular production.

Historical Background

The Petit Lonsdales entered the market prior to 1960, making it one of the older offerings in the Rafael González catalog. The cigar maintained its place in regular production throughout the 1960s and into the following decade. However, by the 1980s, this particular vitola was discontinued, marking the end of its commercial availability. Today, it remains a notable reference point for collectors and enthusiasts interested in the evolution of Cuban cigar formats.

Specifications

Format and Presentation

Classified under the factory name Marevas, the Petit Lonsdales offered smokers a moderately proportioned cigar with a 42 ring gauge and a length of 129 millimeters (approximately 5⅛ inches). This format provided a balanced smoking experience—substantial enough to deliver complexity while remaining approachable in terms of duration.

The cigars were presented in dress boxes containing 25 units, each adorned with the standard band A designation characteristic of the Rafael González brand. The handmade construction ensured the quality and consistency that discerning smokers expected from Cuban premium cigars of that era.

Legacy

Though no longer in production, the Rafael González Petit Lonsdales remains an important reference for understanding the historical range of the brand. Its discontinuation in the 1980s reflects the shifting landscape of Cuban cigar production during that period, as certain vitolas were phased out in favor of others that better suited changing market demands.