When the lid of a seasoned collector’s humidor creaks open, a fragrant whisper of aged tobacco drifts out, carrying with it stories of a bygone era. Among those stories is a slender, elegant vitola that once graced the shelves of La Gloria Cubana’s catalog for more than half a century. The Medaille d’Or No. 1 was a beacon for aficionados who prized patience over haste, offering a long, refined smoke that could stretch a quiet evening into an artful ritual. Though the line was laid to rest in 2010, its memory lingers in the hands of those who still manage to secure a pristine specimen, making it a prized vintage in the world of premium Cuban cigars.
Origins and Legacy
The story of the Medaille d’Or No. 1 begins in the twilight of the pre‑1960 period, when the marque was still carving its niche among Havana’s elite houses. For decades, this vitola held a steady presence in the brand’s regular lineup, surviving shifts in taste, political upheaval, and the ebb and flow of global cigar fashion. Its uninterrupted run lasted over 50 years before the final cur of the scissors fell in 2010, marking the end of an era for a cigar that had become synonymous with timeless sophistication.
Design and Dimensions
At first glance, the Medaille d’Or No. 1 presents a classic silhouette that has defined the Delicados Extra format for generations. The specifications of this handmade stick are a testament to the brand’s dedication to consistency and quality.
- Vitola name: Medaille d’Or No. 1
- Factory designation: Delicados Extra
- Ring gauge: 36
- Length: 185 mm (7¼ inches)
- Official weight: 8.90 g
- Construction: Handmade
- Band style: Standard
The cigar’s slender 36 ring gauge paired with an impressive 185 mm length creates a proportionally elongated profile that invites the smoker to linger. The handmade construction ensures that each draw is smooth, delivering the nuanced flavors that the brand is celebrated for.
Packaging Through the Decades
Throughout its lifespan, the Medaille d’Or No. 1 was presented in two distinct varnished box formats, each reflecting the aesthetic standards of its era. The more common 25‑count arrangement, arranged in a three‑tier stack of eight, nine, and eight cigars, gave the box its name: the 8‑9‑8. This format, known for its elegant symmetry, was discontinued in 2010 alongside the cigar itself. Prior to that, a more compact 10‑count version, also in a varnished flat 8‑9‑8 configuration, was available until approximately 2003. Both options showcased La Gloria Cubana’s commitment to presenting their vitolas with a refined, classic look that complemented the smoke within.
The Smoking Experience
Lighting a Medaille d’Or No. 1 is akin to opening a well‑preserved time capsule. The cold draw releases subtle notes of cedar and dried fruit, hinting at the careful aging process the tobacco undergoes. As the flame touches the foot, a steady plume of creamy smoke rises, revealing layers of earthiness, a faint peppery kick, and a gentle sweetness reminiscent of honeyed oak. The burn line remains true throughout the lengthy session, a testament to the meticulous hand‑rolled construction. The finish is clean, leaving a lingering aftertaste of toasted nuts and a whisper of espresso, making each puff feel both deliberate and satisfying.
For those who seek an extended, contemplative smoke, this vitola offers a rare opportunity to step back in time. Its historical pedigree, refined dimensions, and time‑honored packaging combine to deliver an experience that is as much about the journey as it is about the destination.
