For cigar collectors residing within the Asia Pacific zone, the arrival of a new Edición Regional release is always a cause for celebration. Among the most notable entries in this prestigious program is the Rafael González 88, a smoke that debuted under the 2016 vintage banner. While Habanos S.A. officially designated it as a 2016 release, eager aficionados had to exercise patience, as the product did not actually land on retailer shelves until the middle of 2017. This timeline is typical for the regional edition program, where production logistics often delay the physical arrival of the cigars well past their announced year. Created exclusively for the Asia Pacific market, this cigar represents a distinct departure from the brand's standard portfolio, introducing a shape that was previously absent from their regular lineup.
The Británicas Extra Vitola
The cornerstone of this release's appeal lies in its physical format. Rafael González selected the Británicas Extra vitola for this exclusive offering, a decision that brought a fresh silhouette to the brand's established identity. Measuring 137 mm (approximately 5⅜ inches) in length with a ring gauge of 48, this format strikes a harmonious balance between duration and intensity. The dimensions are ideal for a substantial yet manageable smoking session, typically lasting between 60 and 90 minutes.
Construction is paramount in any handmade Cuban cigar, and the 88 does not disappoint. With an official weight of 10.16 grams, the cigar feels substantial in the hand. The Británicas Extra shape allows for a generous amount of filler tobacco, which contributes to a cool burn and a consistent draw—two critical factors for an enjoyable smoking experience. By utilizing a format not found in the standard Rafael González catalog, the brand offered collectors something genuinely novel rather than a repackaging of existing sizes.
Packaging and Symbolism
The presentation of the Rafael González 88 underscores its status as a collectible item. The cigars are housed in dress boxes, each containing 10 units. What makes these boxes particularly special is the numbering system employed by the factory. A total production run of 8,888 boxes creates a tangible sense of scarcity, ensuring that this remains a genuinely limited release. The specific number is likely a nod to Asian cultural significance, where the number eight is traditionally associated with prosperity and good fortune.
Visually, each cigar is adorned with the classic Rafael González band, but it is the secondary band that signifies its exclusivity. This additional ring serves as a clear marker of the cigar's intended destination, identifying it as an Edición Regional specifically crafted for the Asia Pacific market. This dual-banding approach is a hallmark of the program, instantly signaling to collectors that the cigar is a special production run not intended for global distribution.
Flavor Profile and Tasting Notes
When it comes to the sensory experience, the Rafael González 88 has garnered a reputation for elegance rather than brute strength. Reviews consistently highlight cocoa as the dominant flavor note, providing a rich, chocolatey foundation that permeates the smoke. This core characteristic is beautifully supported by floral aromatics, which add a layer of sophistication and lift to the profile. Beneath these top notes lies an earthy base that grounds the cigar, providing structure and depth throughout the burn.
- Primary Notes: A distinct cocoa richness defines the opening, accompanied by delicate floral accents.
- Secondary Nuances: As the smoke progresses, smokers can detect subtle hints of honey sweetness and nutty undertones, particularly emerging during the second third of the cigar.
- Spice and Finish: While not a spice bomb, the profile features occasional flecks of baking spices and black pepper, rounded out by the taste of pure, quality tobacco.
In terms of potency, this offering leans toward the milder end of the spectrum. With a strength rating hovering around a 2 out of 5, it is an approachable smoke for novices yet complex enough to hold the interest of seasoned connoisseurs. The aftertaste is frequently praised for its lingering quality, leaving a pleasant reminder of the cocoa and earth interplay. Critics have scored the cigar highly in areas of balance and elegance, marking it as a refined choice for those who prefer nuance over power. For collectors in the Asia Pacific region, the Rafael González 88 remains a standout example of how regional exclusives can offer unique dimensions to a historic brand.
