Today’s reviews cover a pair of cigars that feature Ecuadorian Connecticut Shade wrappers. Up first is the Romeo y Julieta Reserva Real Lonsdale, which will be followed by the Gurkha Royal Challenge Robusto.

Romeo y Julieta Reserva Real Lonsdale

Romeo y Julieta is a well-known brand produced by Altadis USA that has been around since 1875. Its Reserva Real line is just one of Romeo y Julieta’s many offerings that has garnered high praise from critics. I have been impressed by Romeo y Julieta stogies in the past, so I am expecting nothing but the best from this Reserva Real Lonsdale that I am about to smoke.

The Romeo y Julieta Reserva Real Lonsdale measures 6 5/8 x 44. It is just one of over 20 different sizes in the Reserva Real line, which ranges from the 3 5/8 x 24 Cuentos to the 7 x 50 Churchill. The cigar features a filler blend of Dominican and Nicaraguan tobaccos. The binder is also Nicaraguan. The wrapper is of the Ecuadorian Connecticut Shade variety. Strength-wise, the Reserva Real falls into the medium-bodied category.

The Reserva Real is an attractive cigar whose appearance is highlighted by a red, white, and gold band near the head. It displays the Romeo y Julieta name and the Reserva Real moniker, as well as 1875 in the middle. The band is a nice contrast to the silky, golden brown wrapper. The wrapper has an oily sheen and a few minimal veins here and there. I see no true imperfections, which is no surprise considering the quality that usually comes with Romeo y Julieta sticks. The cigar appears to be packed tightly with tobacco and offers zero soft spots. The pre-light aroma is of cedar, while the cold taste is sweet and mild.

Once in action, the Romeo y Julieta Reserva Real Lonsdale performs like a champ and shows that it has plenty of substance behind its stylish exterior. The burn stays even on its own and there is no need for re-lighting. The draw is just right and there’s plenty of thick smoke. The light gray ash is solid in nature.