E.P. Carrillo Pledge Lonsdale Review: A New World Masterclass
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Overview
The E.P. Carrillo Pledge Lonsdale is one of the most talked-about New World cigars to emerge in recent years. Crafted by the legendary Ernesto Perez-Carrillo — the man behind the iconic La Gloria Cubana — the Pledge line represents a bold statement of intent: a cigar built entirely from non-Cuban tobaccos that punches well above its weight class. We spent time with the Lonsdale vitola to bring you this in-depth review.
Vital Statistics
- Brand: E.P. Carrillo
- Line: Pledge
- Vitola: Lonsdale
- Size: 6½ × 44
- Wrapper: Ecuadorian Habano
- Binder: Dominican
- Filler: Dominican & Nicaraguan
- Strength: Medium to Full
- Origin: Dominican Republic
- Estimated Smoke Time: 75–90 minutes
Construction & Appearance — 9.5/10
Out of the cellophane, the Pledge Lonsdale immediately impresses. The Ecuadorian Habano wrapper is a rich Colorado Maduro in hue — oily, silky to the touch, and virtually seamless. Veins are minimal and the triple cap is applied with surgical precision. This is a cigar that looks the part of a premium smoke before you've even lit it. The pre-light draw is slightly firm but within acceptable range, offering notes of cedar and dried fruit.
First Third — 9/10
The cold draw hints at what's to come: a rich, complex opening act. Once lit, the Pledge Lonsdale wastes no time. The first third delivers a creamy, full-bodied smoke with dominant notes of dark espresso, roasted cedar, and white pepper. There's an underlying sweetness — almost like dark chocolate — that balances the pepper beautifully. The burn line is razor sharp from the outset, and the ash holds firm past the one-inch mark. Smoke production is generous and billowing.
Second Third — 9.5/10
This is where the Pledge truly earns its reputation. The transition into the second third brings a noticeable evolution: the pepper softens, and a wave of leather, toasted almonds, and dried cherry emerges. The creaminess intensifies, coating the palate in a luxurious, almost velvety texture. Retrohaling reveals a subtle floral note — a hallmark of quality Dominican leaf. Strength sits comfortably at medium-full, never overwhelming but always present. This is the kind of complexity that keeps you reaching for your notes.
Final Third — 8.5/10
The final third maintains the quality but introduces a touch more heat and intensity as the cigar approaches its conclusion. The espresso and leather notes return with authority, joined by a pleasant earthiness. There's a slight uptick in strength here — those sensitive to nicotine may want to pace themselves. The burn remains impeccable throughout, and the draw never falters. The finish is long and satisfying, with lingering notes of dark chocolate and spice.
Scores at a Glance
| Category | Score |
|---|---|
| 🏗️ Construction & Appearance | 9.5 / 10 |
| 🔥 First Third | 9.0 / 10 |
| 🎯 Second Third | 9.5 / 10 |
| 🏁 Final Third | 8.5 / 10 |
| 💨 Draw & Burn | 9.5 / 10 |
| 🌿 Complexity & Flavour | 9.5 / 10 |
| 💰 Value for Money | 9.0 / 10 |
| ⭐ Overall Score | 9.2 / 10 |
Pairing Suggestions
The Pledge Lonsdale is a natural companion for a well-aged Kentucky Straight Bourbon — the vanilla and caramel notes in the spirit complement the cigar's dark chocolate and espresso profile beautifully -Try Stagg Jr Bourbon for a perfect match. For something lighter, a single malt Scotch with sherry cask influence (think Glenfarclas or Aberlour) works wonderfully. Coffee drinkers will find a double espresso or a flat white pairs seamlessly with the first third.
Final Verdict
The E.P. Carrillo Pledge Lonsdale is a benchmark New World cigar that deserves a place in any serious aficionado's rotation. Ernesto Perez-Carrillo has crafted something genuinely special here — a cigar that delivers Cuban-level complexity from non-Cuban leaf, with impeccable construction and a flavour journey that rewards patience. At its price point, it represents exceptional value. Whether you're a seasoned smoker or exploring premium New World cigars for the first time, the Pledge Lonsdale is an essential smoke.
Reviewed by the team at Bourbon & Cigars Blackpool.