What are the dimensions and ring gauge of Rafael González Petit Lonsdales?

The Rafael González Petit Lonsdales measures 42 ring gauge by 5.0 inches (127mm) in length, placing it in the classic Lonsdale vitola category. This format offered a balanced smoking time of approximately 45-60 minutes, delivering a medium-bodied profile that showcased the brand's characteristic blend of Vuelta Abajo tobaccos. The slender 42 ring gauge allowed for concentrated flavor delivery while maintaining an elegant draw.

When was Rafael González Petit Lonsdales discontinued and why?

Production of the Rafael González Petit Lonsdales ceased in the early 2000s, with final examples appearing around 2002-2003. The discontinuation reflected Habanos S.A.'s broader strategy of streamlining portfolios across its 27 global brands, prioritizing core vitolas with stronger commercial demand. As a relatively niche size within an already boutique brand, the Petit Lonsdales became increasingly difficult to source even before official retirement, making surviving boxes highly sought after in the secondary market.

How does Rafael González Petit Lonsdales compare to other Cuban Lonsdales?

The Rafael González Petit Lonsdales distinguished itself through its distinctly floral and cedar-forward profile, lighter in body than comparable H. Upmann or Partagás Lonsdales of the era. Where those competitors emphasized cocoa and coffee notes, this vitola delivered delicate honey sweetness with white pepper spice on the retrohale. Its construction quality varied by production period—pre-2000 examples typically exhibited superior draw consistency compared to later releases, a common observation among collectors who have sampled across different factory codes.

What are the dimensions and ring gauge of Rafael González Petit Lonsdales?

The Rafael González Petit Lonsdales measures 42 ring gauge by 5.0 inches (127mm) in length, placing it in the classic Lonsdale vitola category. This format offered a balanced smoking time of approximately 45-60 minutes, delivering a medium-bodied profile that showcased the brand's characteristic blend of Vuelta Abajo tobaccos. The slender 42 ring gauge allowed for concentrated flavor delivery while maintaining an elegant draw.

When was Rafael González Petit Lonsdales discontinued and why?

Production of the Rafael González Petit Lonsdales ceased in the early 2000s, with final examples appearing around 2002-2003. The discontinuation reflected Habanos S.A.'s broader strategy of streamlining portfolios across its 27 global brands, prioritizing core vitolas with stronger commercial demand. As a relatively niche size within an already boutique brand, the Petit Lonsdales became increasingly difficult to source even before official retirement, making surviving boxes highly sought after in the secondary market.

How does Rafael González Petit Lonsdales compare to other Cuban Lonsdales?

The Rafael González Petit Lonsdales distinguished itself through its distinctly floral and cedar-forward profile, lighter in body than comparable H. Upmann or Partagás Lonsdales of the era. Where those competitors emphasized cocoa and coffee notes, this vitola delivered delicate honey sweetness with white pepper spice on the retrohale. Its construction quality varied by production period—pre-2000 examples typically exhibited superior draw consistency compared to later releases, a common observation among collectors who have sampled across different factory codes.

Cigar Information

Rafael González Petit Lonsdales

The Rafael González Petit Lonsdales represents a fascinating chapter in Cuban cigar history—a vitola that enjoyed a production run spanning several decades before ultimately being retired. 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

Cigar Name	Petit Lonsdales
Factory Name	Marevas
Ring Gauge	42
Length	129 mm (5⅛″)
Official Weight	8.46 g
Construction	Handmade
Band	Standard band A
Packaging	Dress box of 25 cigars
Status	Discontinued (1980s)

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.

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