What is the factory name for Saint Luis Rey Lonsdales and when was it first released?

The Saint Luis Rey Lonsdales carries the factory name "Cervantes," a designation shared across Cuban cigar brands for this specific vitola. It was originally released prior to 1960, placing it among the pre-revolutionary Cuban cigars that established the brand's reputation. The Cervantes vitola measures 165mm (6.5 inches) in length with a 42 ring gauge, representing the classic lonsdale format that emphasizes wrapper-to-filler ratio and refined smoking characteristics.

What are the typical flavor notes of Saint Luis Rey Lonsdales?

Saint Luis Rey Lonsdales delivers a medium-to-full bodied profile characteristic of the brand's Vuelta Abajo tobacco composition. Primary notes include cedar, earth, and roasted nuts, with secondary flavors of coffee bean and subtle white pepper developing through the second third. The 42 ring gauge concentrates these flavors more intensely than larger formats, while the length allows sufficient aging potential for complexity to emerge. Construction quality varies by production year, with older examples showing enhanced sweetness and reduced sharpness.

How does Saint Luis Rey Lonsdales compare to other Cuban lonsdales like Montecristo No. 1?

Both share the Cervantes factory name and identical dimensions (165mm x 42), yet diverge in character. Saint Luis Rey Lonsdales typically presents a more assertive, rustic profile with less refinement than Montecristo No. 1, which tends toward smoother, more balanced delivery. Saint Luis Rey occupies a lower price tier within Habanos S.A.'s portfolio, offering value-oriented access to traditional Cuban lonsdale smoking experience. Availability remains more limited than Montecristo, with regional distribution concentrating in European and Asian markets rather than global retail channels.

What is the factory name for Saint Luis Rey Lonsdales and when was it first released?

The Saint Luis Rey Lonsdales carries the factory name "Cervantes," a designation shared across Cuban cigar brands for this specific vitola. It was originally released prior to 1960, placing it among the pre-revolutionary Cuban cigars that established the brand's reputation. The Cervantes vitola measures 165mm (6.5 inches) in length with a 42 ring gauge, representing the classic lonsdale format that emphasizes wrapper-to-filler ratio and refined smoking characteristics.

What are the typical flavor notes of Saint Luis Rey Lonsdales?

Saint Luis Rey Lonsdales delivers a medium-to-full bodied profile characteristic of the brand's Vuelta Abajo tobacco composition. Primary notes include cedar, earth, and roasted nuts, with secondary flavors of coffee bean and subtle white pepper developing through the second third. The 42 ring gauge concentrates these flavors more intensely than larger formats, while the length allows sufficient aging potential for complexity to emerge. Construction quality varies by production year, with older examples showing enhanced sweetness and reduced sharpness.

How does Saint Luis Rey Lonsdales compare to other Cuban lonsdales like Montecristo No. 1?

Both share the Cervantes factory name and identical dimensions (165mm x 42), yet diverge in character. Saint Luis Rey Lonsdales typically presents a more assertive, rustic profile with less refinement than Montecristo No. 1, which tends toward smoother, more balanced delivery. Saint Luis Rey occupies a lower price tier within Habanos S.A.'s portfolio, offering value-oriented access to traditional Cuban lonsdale smoking experience. Availability remains more limited than Montecristo, with regional distribution concentrating in European and Asian markets rather than global retail channels.

Cigar Information

Saint Luis Rey Lonsdales

The Saint Luis Rey Lonsdales represents a classic Cuban vitola that has earned its place in cigar history. Originally released prior to 1960, this cigar carried the factory name "Cervantes" and exemplified the traditional craftsmanship that defined Cuban cigar production for decades. Though officially discontinued in 2006, production continued in limited capacity through at least 2010, making this a sought-after release for collectors and enthusiasts.

Specifications

Vitola Name	Lonsdales
Factory Name	Cervantes
Ring Gauge	42
Length	165 mm (6½″)
Official Weight	10.80 g
Construction	Handmade
Status	Discontinued Regular Production

Packaging and Presentation

The Saint Luis Rey Lonsdales was offered in two primary packaging formats throughout its production run. The dress box containing 25 cigars remained available until its discontinuation in 2006. Additionally, a slide lid box holding 50 cigars was offered, though this format was phased out approximately in 2003. The standard band A adorned most releases, though the slide lid box versions were notably sold without bands.

Flavor Profile and Tasting Notes

Based on enthusiast reviews, the Lonsdales delivers a well-balanced smoking experience with notable complexity. The flavor profile features earthy characteristics complemented by fruity undertones, leather notes, and classic tobacco flavors. Reviewers have consistently rated this cigar highly for its elegance and complexity, while noting a moderate strength level that makes it approachable for various palates.

Average Ratings (5 Reviews)

Elegance	4/5
Balance	4/5
Strength	3/5
Complexity	4/5
Aftertaste	3/5
Overall Rating	4/5

Historical Significance

As a pre-1960 release, the Saint Luis Rey Lonsdales witnessed the evolution of the Cuban cigar industry through numerous transformations. Its decades-long production run speaks to the enduring appeal of the Cervantes vitola format. The cigar also found new life in special releases, including the Saint Luis Rey Lonsdales Siglo XXI Millennium Humidor edition, which celebrated the turn of the millennium with a distinctive presentation.

Related Releases

Saint Luis Rey Lonsdales Siglo XXI Millennium Humidor

Questions & Answers

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