Rafael Gonzalez was created in the 1930’s. It was in this brand that the 6 1/2 inch by 42 gauge cigar, which has the factory name of Cervantes, was the first called a Lonsdale after Lord Lonsdale, the famous English sporting Earl and cigar aficionado of that period. Now many other brands use the name as well. On its lid label each box carries a curious inscription written in English to the effect that the cigars should be smoked within one month of the date of shipment from Havana or otherwise they should be carefully matured for about one year. Rafael Gonzalez cigars contain a light tasting blend of filler and binder leaves from the Vuelta Abajo zone.
