The Lonsdale format is one that is often overlooked by today’s cigar smokers. Historically however it has been a favorite among many cigar connoisseurs. Known more generically as a Cervantes, the history of the Lonsdale name goes back to the early 1900’s, when Cuban brands used to manufacture personalized cigars for some of their most prominent customers. The Earl of Lonsdale, who enjoyed smoking a size similar to what we now refer to as a Lonsdale, requested his cigars to come with a picture on the inside lid bearing his likeness. In 1988 the picture was removed, but the name Lonsdale remained.

Traditionally a Lonsdale measures 6 ¼” X 42 although each manufacturer may modify the format slightly to their own preferences. Its elegant format makes it a less popular choice among today’s cigar smokers who often prefer thicker cigars. Adapting to the majority of market, fewer Lonsdales are being made today, however there are still several on the market worth experiencing. Keeping in mind the Lonsdale’s thinner ring gauge, it’s important to remember that in this case, the wrapper will play a more dominant role in the overall flavor than it might in a thicker cigar, since there is less filler to counter the wrapper’s flavor.

Enjoy!

Michael Herklots
General Manager
Davidoff of Geneva
The Shops at Columbus Circle