Rafael González Perlas Cigar Review

• Brand: Rafael González
• Length: 102 mm (4 inches)
• Ring Gauge: 40
• Score:
  • Draw: 4/6
  • Burn: 4/6
  • Flavour: 3/6
  • Aroma: 4/6
  • Strength: 2/6

Product Introduction

The Rafael González Perlas is a Cuban cigar of Perlas vitola. It's 102 mm long with a 40 ring gauge, handmade using long filler tobacco from Cuba's Vuelta Abajo region. It weighs 5.91 g and costs $8 each.

Tasting Experience

First Third

• Draw is between tight and slightly resistant.
• Burn is good, forming a solid ash.
• Aroma is a bit harsh at first, with notes of burnt Provençal herbs.
• Palate has smoked spices, later evolving to woody notes with hints of sweetness.
• End has a high ammonia taste and a short finish.

Second Third

• Flavors are flat, with slight roasted coffee bean notes.
• Aroma has grilled herbs notes.
• Woodiness is well - perceived, and the finish is short.

Last Third

• Starts with oriental spices like cumin.
• Creamy structure comes and goes.
• Last part has a bourbon - type flavor with some bitterness.
• Final notes are chocolaty and creamy.

The cigar is short and gets tastier towards the end. However, the after - taste is bad, making it suitable as an aperitif before a bigger cigar.