La Gloria Cubana Gilded Age
Cigar Review La Gloria Cubana Medium Body

La Gloria Cubana Gilded Age

stogiesonthero 

Initial Thoughts

I haven’t smoked too many cigars from the La Gloria Cubana line up. I obviously have never reviewed one on this site. The few that I have smoked I have enjoyed, but I can’t remember their exact name. I just remember the band. So when Travis from Famous Smoke Shop reached out to me about reviewing this new line of cigars that they released, I jumped at the opportunity. He said he would send me a few samples to smoke and just write about what I experienced and I’m doing just that.

La Gloria Cubana Gilded Age - Barrel
La Gloria Cubana Gilded Age – Barrel

I’m always interested in the story behind specific branding and marketing of a new product. With this La Gloria Cubana Gilded Age having such a dominant band and an obvious theme I wanted to know where they came up with the idea. There has to be some sort of connection right? So I dug around and found a press release that told me everything I needed to know.

The concept behind the brand is an homage to the classic era in American history when Lady La Gloria, La Gloria Cubana’s symbolic logo, lived.

That’s pretty simple isn’t it? It makes perfect sense. I love how they tied the new product in with the presence that LGC has already established. I think it’s a good mixture and it makes it easier to jump into the marketplace. This La Gloria Cubana Gilded Age is available in four different vitolas: Churchill, Magnum, Robusto, and Toro. If you read all the way to the end, then you can enter for a chance to win an entire box of the toro vitola. Don’t just skip to the end though, well I guess you can if you want to. Let’s jump into this review this gigantic Churchill that they sent me and see what’s going on with this cigar.

Looks

Because I got samples of the Churchill vitola, I’m not sure what I noticed first, the band or the size of the stick. Holy smoke I always forget how big Churchills are until I hold them. They’re not my go to size, but I do enjoy them. I have a feeling it’s going to be about a 2 hour smoke, luckily for me it’s incredibly humid outside and if I sit out for 2 hours then I’ll prolly shed at least 10 lbs in water weight. Who knew smoking cigars would help you lose weight!

La Gloria Cubana Gilded Age - Band
La Gloria Cubana Gilded Age – Band

Taking a look at the band on this La Gloria Cubana Gilded Age you instantly notice the size of it. I’m not sure if it’s the same size on the Churchill as it is on the rest of the vitolas, but this thing is massive. It’s an Art Deco style band which is the style that was all the rage during the ‘Gilded Age’ apparently. That’s why they’ve used it for this specific cigar, and I think it looks pretty darn good if I do say so myself. At the top of the band you’ll notice the traditional LGC logo inside of a circle, and then all around it there is a gold color that fills the rest of the band. There are a few thin black lines, not to be confused with Thin Red Lines, just want to make that clear. Towards the bottom of the band there is a classic font, that I’m assuming is Art Decoish, I’m not really up on my art styles, but it definitely reminds me of a the time back in the roaring 20’s or 40’s. Whichever it is, basically this font reminds me of Jazz music and the Great Gatsby. So yeah, whatever time period that was. Apparently it was the Gilded Age.

La Gloria Cubana Gilded Age
La Gloria Cubana Gilded Age

The cigar looks beautiful once you get passed the size. There is a nice vein that runs the course of the wrapper. It’s not bulging out, but it is noticeable. This Ecuadorian Sumatra wrapper has a nice dark brown color to it. A few shades darker and it might be confused as a maduro. There is a tiny bit of tooth on the wrapper as well which I’m looking forward to see if it peeks its head out on the ash. I think that just about covers everything that there is to look at the cigar right now. Let’s hop on into how it functions.

Function

Looking at a Churchill I’m always amazed at how well they are rolled. To me it’s just an enormous size, and I can’t imagine how someone rolls that. I’m also always worried about how it’s going to draw. For me the larger sized cigars always seem to have draw issues. Maybe I’m just not used to puffing on them hard enough to draw the air through the barrel. I’m not sure, but I’m hoping I don’t have issues with this La Gloria Cubana Gilded Age. 

La Gloria Cubana Gilded Age - Foot
La Gloria Cubana Gilded Age – Foot

Taking a look at the foot of this cigar it appears to be well constructed and properly filled with the filler tobacco. I gave it the ole pinch test up and down the barrel to test it’s bounce back and everything appeared to be in working order. So I’m ready to nip the cap and get this thing going.

After my initial cut on the head, the dry draw wasn’t as open as I wanted it to be. So I gave it another chop and it opened up a little more. Still not quite where I wanted it, but good enough to get started. The draw was a little stiff so I wasn’t able to pick out too many flavors during the dry draw so I figured it was time to go ahead and light it up and see if it opened up anymore.

La Gloria Cubana Gilded Age - Head
La Gloria Cubana Gilded Age – Head

Smoking

I made sure to really toast the foot on this La Gloria Cubana Gilded Age. It’s a big cigar and I want to get it going on the straight and narrow early on, and hopefully it will hinder any burn issues down the road. The first third of this cigar took a while to get going. I was having trouble drawing air through the barrel and the combustion on the wrapper wasn’t burning as quickly as I hoped. It was burning perfectly even, just not as fast and I had hoped for. I always like the foot to burn a little faster to get me into the heart of the cigar where it really opens up. This was just taking a little longer than I prefer. Not a big a deal, just personal preference.

La Gloria Cubana Gilded Age - 1st Third
La Gloria Cubana Gilded Age – 1st Third

Once I got about half an inch into the cigar, it began to open up a little more and the air flow improved. The burn was absolutely perfect and now that it was drawing better I have a good feeling about where this cigar is heading. As I continued through the first third, which took me about 45 mins I was able to hold an ash well over an inch. Of course I didn’t a picture of it before it fell. The good news is the ash fell from about three feet in the air and didn’t obliterate when it hit the ground. It actually stayed intact which to me is always a good side of great construction.

The second third was more of the same on this La Gloria Cubana Gilded Age. It began to really open up and the smoke output was perfect. Draw was exceptional and it made this Churchill burn a little quicker. Not too fast though, I wanted to make sure and lose all 10lbs of water weight before I’m done with this stick though.

La Gloria Cubana Gilded Age - 2nd Third
La Gloria Cubana Gilded Age – 2nd Third

During the final third, this stick stayed smooth and consistent with the burn line. Never got out of line and the draw was exceptional all the way through. I was glad it finally opened up after the initial third, it made this Churchil much more manageable. If it would have had draw issues the entire time I probably would have tossed it after the first third. I can’t smoke a cigar for 2+ hours that’s difficult draw. That’s like standing in line at the DMV. Just downright painful.

Flavor

I’m not sure exactly what flavors were huge back in the days during the Gilded Age, but I’m curious if the tastes on this stick line up with those. They probably don’t, but it’s always fun to try and find out! During the pre light I nosed the foot and the barrel of  this La Gloria Cubana Gilded Ageand I picked up a little hint of sweetness, but mainly dirt and earth notes. They were very pleasant and aromatic though which to me is a good sign. During the pre light I also picked up a bit of spice on the lips which got me excited and I could presume there was some Nicaraguan ligero in the filler (which I ended up being right about).

La Gloria Cubana Gilded Age - Nice Ash Building
La Gloria Cubana Gilded Age – Nice Ash Building

Once I set the flame to this cigar I instantly picked up some woodsy notes. Very similar to the smell of campfire, except I was tasting it inside my mouth. Which probably sounds a little odd, but it was actually very tasty. The woodsy / earthy notes dominated the first third. There were hints of spice on the retrohale with some floral notes as well, but the most common flavors carried throughout this third.

During the second third this La Gloria Cubana Gilded Age began to show it’s complexity. The spice picked up, especially during the retrohale and hit hard at first and then finished with a bit of sweetness. The woodsy / earthy notes have dissipated from flavors in the mouth and were mainly noticeable in the aroma now. With the spice building I began picking up on a savory note that I really enjoyed.

La Gloria Cubana Gilded Age - Final Third
La Gloria Cubana Gilded Age – Final Third

The last third continued the trend on the spice and at this point that’s the dominant note. I can’t really pick up on the earthy notes anymore. The spice isn’t overpowering like the Ashton ESG, but it’s definitely there and blocking out the other flavors during this final third. To me this cigar never really built past a medium body. There was a good dose of flavors, but the ‘strength’ was more medium bodied.

Would I Buy It Again?

Yeah, I believe so, just not in the Churchill size.

Is It an Every Day Smoke?

Potentially, it has a good price point, but I couldn’t smoke a Churchill everyday.

Would I Buy a Box?

Possibly, I’d like to see how the Toros and Robustos smoke before I decide on a box though.

Conclusion

La Gloria Cubana Gilded Age - Nub
La Gloria Cubana Gilded Age – Nub

A solid 9 out 10. Great construction, great flavors, very enjoyable cigar. As I’m sure you know by now, I’m just not a big cigar kind of guy. So having to sit and smoke on the same stick for 2+ hours doesn’t exactly appeal to me. I enjoyed it, but I still would prefer a smaller sized cigar.

Ok, so now onto the giveaway. Travis, the same guy that sent me these samples wanted me to do a giveaway of an entire box of these La Gloria Cubana Gilded Age cigars in the toro size! So, you know the drill, fill out the Rafflecopter below and you will be entered to win! Best of luck to everyone!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

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64 thoughts on “La Gloria Cubana Gilded Age

  1. Zane Gamble

    Looking forward to trying these.

    1. Eric Scism

      It’s definitely worth a try I would try and pick some up if you can.

  2. 007MI6

    Damn Schism. At it again! I’m hoping for better results this time around. lol 😉 Thanks for the contest buddy!

    I enjoy the LGC’s that I’ve had, not many admittedly, so I look forward to trying their new stuff. Now, as to why you want me to tell you my thoughts on the JDH in an LGC review….

    1. Eric Scism

      Haha, stupid copy and paste mistake from the last giveaway… Oh well. It’s fixed now, thanks for the heads up!

  3. MattyBlayze

    Yeah, I assume you didn’t update the Rafflecopter because its weird you want to know about the JD Howard Reserve! LOL

    Haven’t had the Gilded Age, but eager to try it.

    1. Eric Scism

      Haha I did copy it, and didn’t realize I was that specific about it. Dang, you guys catch all this on my drive into the office. Thanks for the heads up!

  4. Cigar Surgeon

    I haven’t tried the LGC prior but the review notes definitely have me curious. I’ve certainly enjoyed other LGCs I’ve had in the past so I’ll have to add this one to ‘the list’

    1. Eric Scism

      Well I’m glad you liked the review sir. It’s definitely worth trying!

  5. The_Nothing

    Only had a couple LGCs myself, but I like the ones I’ve tried so far!

    1. Eric Scism

      Well these should be right up your alley!

  6. Zack Mello

    I enjoy the occasional LGC and am curious to try this one. I would love to find another go to cigar so here’s to hoping I will enjoy it!

    1. Eric Scism

      Especially if you win, you’ve got a lot to enjoy!

  7. Patrick Mulcahy

    Seen some of this brand never thought about picking them up, guess I will have to now

    1. Eric Scism

      Always worth trying, I would pick up a smaller vitola though.

      1. Patrick Mulcahy

        Definitely, that’s too much cigar for me either way. haha

  8. Michael Russian

    Looks like a great cigar! Can’t wait to try one if I win! 🙂

    1. Eric Scism

      Haha well best of luck to you sir!

  9. Garry

    Haven’t had a Gilded Age yet but always willin to try new things

    1. Eric Scism

      Always gotta try new stuff man!

  10. Jared Grillot

    LGC Serie R is a stick I keep going back to, so I’ve been excited to try these!

    1. Eric Scism

      I think that is the one that I’ve had before, but I couldn’t remember the name.

  11. Matt T

    Love me some La Gloria Cubana Maduros. Never had one of the Gilded Ages- sure its a real solid stick.

    1. Eric Scism

      I haven’t had the Maduros but definitely looking enticing.

  12. Gene

    Hope I get to try one!

    1. Eric Scism

      Consider yourself in the running Gene!

  13. Ryan Shenk

    Right on – ready to try one!

    1. Eric Scism

      Thanks for swinging by Ryan good luck to you on the contest.

  14. Harley Holmes

    Looks interesting

    1. Eric Scism

      Definitely enjoy the look of it and the taste was definitely pleasurable.

  15. Christopher Valitzski

    Hmmm, can’t wait to try it.

    1. Eric Scism

      Well I know they have them on Famous, I’m not sure if they’re available at Brick and Mortar stores though.

  16. Al Quackenbush

    Sounds like a great evening cigar. I really want to try one!

    1. Eric Scism

      It’s definitely an evening cigar!

  17. jy617

    Haven’t had a LGC in a while but they have always been good cigars IMO. Haven’t had the Guilded Age but it sounds tasty!

    1. Eric Scism

      Well I’ve got a few if you want me to hold some back for you when hit up Nashville.

      1. jy617

        Sure, why not?

  18. DrakeXD

    I’ve been looking forward to giving this one a try. Thanks for the review!

    1. Eric Scism

      You’re welcome sir!

  19. Mr Bill

    LGCs are always a good go to cigar. I usually have a few in the humidor. Have not tried the Guilded Age as yet, but will look next time I’m in my B&M.
    Thanks

    1. Eric Scism

      I’m not 100% sure if they will be available at B&Ms, I think it might be a deal only available on Famous Smoke.

  20. czerbe

    guys I always enjoy your site, and I’m a big LGC fan I have been excited about this new release and can’t wait to give it a try.. thanks again

    1. Eric Scism

      What’s your favorite LGC? I’ve been hearing a lot of talk about the Serie 6!

      1. czerbe

        I really like the la gloria cubana retro especiale

        1. Eric Scism

          Nice, I’ll have to try and find some. My shop has limited LGC options

  21. fatkid

    can’t wait to try these

    1. Eric Scism

      Haha, love the user name!

      1. fatkid

        thanks, it’s been my nickname for quite a while.

        1. Siz

          hahaha well I’m a self named fat kid

  22. Rolly

    I actually have a few on order as I haven’t tried them yet. Will be better able to give my view after I smoke a couple.

    1. Eric Scism

      Yeah I’d love to hear what you think about them.

  23. 3xUSMC

    I love LGC’s cigars, so would live to try this Gilded Age as well!

    1. Eric Scism

      Absolutely! Give em a try ASAP

  24. curt williams

    Should be another eccellent cigar from LGC

    1. Eric Scism

      Yeah I really enjoyed it, I’m on the lookout for other LGCs

  25. Rocky

    This looks like a good one. Beautiful band as well.

    1. Eric Scism

      Gorgeous band for sure!

  26. Andre Thegiant

    Looks great. Haven’t had many LGCs, need to remedy that

    1. Eric Scism

      Haha yes you do sir!

  27. Dan skarr

    Love LGC! great giveaway!

    1. Siz

      Thanks Dan! You can thank Famous Smoke for the giveaway! I’m just the medium 🙂

  28. Chris

    Looking forward to reading more reviews!

    1. Eric Scism

      Thanks Chris! Take a look around and let me know if there is anything else we need to review!

  29. Gene Rella

    Your flavor profile is spot on, and you haven’t steered me wrong yet. Never the less, the band will look cool in my ash tray I’m making and it will compliment my Woodford Reserve Mint Juleps I’ve been downing all summer.

    1. Eric Scism

      Thanks Gene! Glad you agree with me on this stick. A Mint Julep does sound incredible right now!

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