Lonsdale
The Lonsdale is a traditional cigar vitola prized for its elegant length and balanced proportions. Typically measuring around 6.5 inches in length with a ring gauge of 42, the Lonsdale offers a refined, slow-burning experience ideal for those who appreciate nuanced flavor development in a more slender format than today’s popular large-ring cigars.
Key Specifications
- Length: ~6.5 inches
- Ring Gauge: 40–44 (commonly 42)
- Shape: Parejo (straight-sided)
- Smoking Time: 50–70 minutes
Citation: Cigar Aficionado – Cigar Size Chart
History and Naming
The Lonsdale is believed to have been named after Hugh Cecil Lowther, the 5th Earl of Lonsdale, a British aristocrat and sportsman known for his affinity for slim, elegant cigars. The shape became especially popular during the mid-20th century and remains a favorite among traditionalists.
Lonsdale Characteristics
- Long and slender profile that feels refined in hand
- Moderate ring gauge puts more emphasis on wrapper flavor
- Burns cooler than shorter cigars, allowing for smooth flavor transitions
- Great for medium-length sessions without rushing or overcommitting
Due to its dimensions, a well-constructed Lonsdale can showcase the subtle evolution of a blend across its thirds, with less filler distraction and more wrapper expression.
| Format | Length | Ring Gauge | Experience |
| Lonsdale | 6.5 in | ~42 | Elegant, slow burn, wrapper-forward |
| Corona | 5.5 in | ~42 | Shorter session, classic flavor delivery |
| Panatela | 6.0–7.5 in | 34–38 | Thin and fast-burning, very wrapper-heavy |
| Churchill | 7.0 in | 47 | Longer burn, fuller mouthfeel |
Lonsdale vs. Similar Vitolas
Lonsdales are often considered the sweet spot between a Corona and Churchill—offering extended smoking time without excessive ring gauge bulk.
When to Choose a Lonsdale
- You enjoy flavor clarity and balanced strength
- You want a medium-length session with complex progression
- You prefer traditional aesthetics and slim formats
- You’re smoking indoors or in quiet, relaxed settings
Notable Lonsdale Cigars
- Arturo Fuente Flor Fina 8-5-8 – Creamy, nutty, and consistently high-rated
- Davidoff Signature No. 1 (Limited Re-Release) – Elegant, floral, and ultra-refined
- Cohiba Siglo V (Cuban) – Rich, balanced, and medium-bodied classic
- H. Upmann by AJ Fernandez Lonsdale – A modern take on a traditional format
Citation: Halfwheel – Lonsdale Vitola Review Index
Smoking Tips
- Puff gently every 30–60 seconds to avoid overheating
- Use a clean straight cut to maintain airflow in the slim head
- Store carefully—thin cigars are more prone to drying and cracking
- Let the flavors build gradually—Lonsdales are about evolution, not intensity
Related Glossary Terms
Summary
The Lonsdale is a timeless, elegant cigar shape that emphasizes finesse, clarity, and flavor progression. Though less common in today’s market dominated by thick-ring formats, it remains a favorite for those who appreciate traditional craftsmanship and a measured smoking experience. If you value complexity without boldness, the Lonsdale belongs in your humidor.