Ramon Allones King of the North: A Regal Tribute to Cuban Craftsmanship

The Ramon Allones King of the North, a remarkable addition to Habanos S.A.’s Edición Regional programme, epitomises the enduring heritage and artisanal mastery of Cuban cigars. Released exclusively for the Nordic and Baltic regions, this limited-edition cigar is a testament to the brand’s unparalleled ability to combine tradition with innovation. With its bold flavour profile, exquisite construction, and exclusive availability, the King of the North is a collector’s dream and a tribute to aficionados seeking an extraordinary smoking experience.

The Inspiration Behind the Name

The name "King of the North" conjures an image of strength, majesty, and resilience—qualities intrinsically linked to the rugged yet breathtaking landscapes of the Nordic and Baltic regions. It serves as a tribute to the cultural heritage of these territories, where long, unforgiving winters and a deep-rooted appreciation for craftsmanship have nurtured a discerning audience for premium cigars. This regal title also reflects the illustrious history of the Ramón Allones brand, a cornerstone of Cuban cigars since 1837, and symbolises its enduring prestige. By dedicating this Edición Regional to the northern territories, Habanos S.A. celebrates the enduring bond between Cuba and its loyal aficionados in these markets.

Beyond its regional significance, the moniker "King of the North" carries profound cultural and historical weight. Biblically, the "King of the North" is mentioned in the Book of Daniel as a symbol of power and dominion. In modern popular culture, the title gained renown through George R.R. Martin's A Song of Ice and Fire series, later adapted into the acclaimed television show Game of Thrones, where it embodies leadership and resilience. By adopting this evocative name, the Ramón Allones King of the North honours the strength and majesty associated with northern realms, perfectly aligning with the robust and regal character of the cigar itself.

A Journey Through History

Founded in 1837, Ramon Allones holds the distinction of being one of the oldest Cuban cigar brands. Known for its trailblazing innovations, the brand introduced colourful lithographed box labels and decorative bands, setting new standards for cigar presentation. These advancements, combined with its reputation for bold and complex blends, established Ramon Allones as a pioneer in the industry.

The King of the North continues this legacy, representing the brand’s commitment to excellence while embracing modern tastes. Released in 2021, this exclusive cigar was distributed across eight countries in the Nordic and Baltic regions: Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Iceland, Latvia, Lithuania, Norway, and Sweden. Its release celebrated the rich cigar culture of these nations, where Ramon Allones has long been revered for its consistency and quality.

Vitola Details

Factory Name: Dobles

Dimensions: Ring gauge 50 x Length 155 mm (6.1 inches)

Construction: Hand-rolled in Cuba

Wrapper: Cuban, with a milk chocolate hue and a slightly textured finish

Binder & Filler: Cuban

Strength: Medium-bodied

Packaging: Limited to 6,000 numbered boxes, each containing 10 cigars

The Dobles vitola offers a balanced smoking experience, with dimensions that enhance the blend’s complexity. With a smoking time of approximately 90 minutes, it is perfect for savouring during special occasions or moments of reflection.

Flavour Profile

The King of the North delivers a medium-bodied experience, characterised by its nuanced and evolving flavour profile. Each third of the cigar reveals distinct notes, creating a harmonious journey from start to finish.

First Third

The cigar opens with inviting notes of toasted bread, leather, and a hint of mineral saltiness. These initial flavours are complemented by subtle undertones of cocoa and earth, creating a balanced and intriguing start. The creamy texture of the smoke and the flawless draw enhance the overall experience.

Second Third

As the cigar progresses, the flavour profile deepens, introducing layers of salted peanuts, cinnamon, and oatmeal. A touch of dried fruit adds a hint of sweetness, while freshly brewed coffee and oak provide a warm, rich base. The retrohale reveals a harmonious interplay of spice and sweetness, highlighting the cigar’s complexity.

Final Third

The final third brings a crescendo of bold and robust flavours. Dominant notes of espresso, dark cocoa, and cedar take centre stage, with a re-emergence of black pepper adding a touch of spice. The finish is long and satisfying, leaving lingering notes of roasted nuts, citrus peel, and creamy leather. This elegant conclusion reflects the cigar’s balanced construction and masterful blending.

Construction and Performance

The meticulous craftsmanship of the King of the North is evident in its flawless construction. The milk chocolate-hued wrapper features a slightly rough texture that enhances its rustic charm. The cigar’s draw is smooth and consistent, producing ample smoke with every puff.

The burn is razor-sharp, requiring minimal touch-ups, and the ash is firm and stable, holding impressively before falling. These attributes showcase the skill and dedication of Cuba’s master torcedores, ensuring that every cigar meets the highest standards of quality.

Ideal Pairings

To elevate the experience of the King of the North, consider pairing it with beverages that complement its complex flavour profile:

Aged Rum: The natural sweetness and depth of a premium rum enhance the cigar’s cocoa and nutty notes.
Sherry-Cask Aged Scotch: A lightly sherried single malt brings out the cigar’s fruity and spicy undertones, offering a harmonious pairing.
Espresso: The rich, roasted profile of espresso aligns perfectly with the cigar’s coffee and cocoa flavours.
Cognac: A high-quality Cognac adds a layer of sophistication, harmonising with the cigar’s creamy and earthy elements.
Port Wine: The rich, fruity notes of vintage port complement the cigar’s sweetness and spice.
Dark Beer: A robust stout or porter provides a delightful contrast, highlighting the cigar’s earthy and roasted characteristics.

The King of the North Experience

The Ramon Allones King of the North is more than just a cigar—it is a tribute to the heritage, artistry, and innovation that define Cuban cigar-making. Its limited production and regional exclusivity make it a coveted addition to any aficionado’s collection, while its rich and evolving flavour profile ensures an unforgettable smoking experience.

Whether enjoyed during a winter evening by the fire or shared among friends in celebration, the King of the North embodies the essence of luxury and refinement. It stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of Ramon Allones and the timeless appeal of Cuban cigars.

Rating for Ramon Allones King of the North

Here is how the King of the North scores based on my rating system:

Appearance: 10/10 – A flawless wrapper with impeccable presentation.
Aroma: 10/10 – Inviting notes of leather, toasted bread, and cocoa.
Flavour: 20/20 – Complex and evolving, with a seamless blend of spice, sweetness, and richness.
Draw: 10/10 – Smooth and consistent, producing dense, creamy smoke.
Burn: 9/10 – Sharp, even burn with firm ash.
Construction: 10/10 – Exemplary craftsmanship from Cuba’s finest torcedores.
Strength: 7/10 – Medium-bodied, offering a satisfying balance of boldness and approachability.
Finish: 10/10 – Long and satisfying, with lingering notes of coffee, nuts, and cedar.
Overall Experience: 10/10 – A luxurious and engaging cigar that pays homage to a classic brand.