NEW UNDERCROWN GORDO SIZE INTRODUCED BY DREW ESTATE

Undercrown by Drew Estate is proud to announce the Undercrown 10 Gordo. This 6 x 60 vitola adds a new layer of richness and depth to the Undercrown 10 experience and answers the call from cigar lovers who prefer big ring gauge cigars.

Undercrown was born of the unknown heroes on our factory floor, crafted by the same hands that make Liga Privada, and captures the spirit of the Underdog that has driven the brand ever since. Originally crafted to commemorate a "Decade of Dedication," the Undercrown 10 Line celebrates the legacy of that Undercrown spirit. Released a decade after the original Undercrown was born on the factory floor, Undercrown 10 honors the original movement while delivering rich, undeniable flavor geared towards the seasoned connoisseur.

This masterpiece has been a mainstay since its inception and now proudly welcomes a new offering to the lineup.

The floor demanded Undercrown. The people demanded a Gordo — and we listened.

The Undercrown 10 Gordo is a stately 6 x 60 prince, offering a longer, leisurely smoking experience for those who want to maximize their enjoyment. The fifth vitola in the Undercrown 10 family, Undercrown 10 Gordo will be offered in limited production boxes of 10 for $168.00.

The Undercrown 10 Gordo utilizes the same recipe as the existing UC10 brandmark, showcasing a Mexican San Andres maduro wrapper overtop a Connecticut Broadleaf binder and hand-selected long-filler leaves from Honduras and Nicaragua.

La Gran Fabrica spokesperson Pedro Gomez: "Undercrown 10 is an incredible medium-to-full-bodied masterpiece at its core, and a blend we all celebrate every single day here at La Gran Fabrica Drew Estate. With this massive new Gordo size, it becomes the ultimate smoke for any big celebration. ¡No Jodas! It's a bigger bang for your buck, bringing out that fine, spicy Mexican hot chocolate profile like nothing else."

Undercrown 10 Gordo joins the Undercrown El Tigre as the latest releases in the Undercrown line, as Drew Estate continues to innovate and experiment with new options for Undercrown fans worldwide.

Undercrown 10 Gordo is shipping now to Drew Estate retailers.

Cigar Aficionado Names Perla Del Mar Maduro Corona Gorda Cigar of the Week

We are honored to share that the J.C. Newman Perla Del Mar Maduro Corona Gorda has been featured as Cigar Aficionado's Cigar of the Week, earning an outstanding 90-point rating.

Handcrafted at our J.C. Newman PENSA cigar factory in Estelí, Nicaragua, the Perla del Mar Maduro pairs a rich Connecticut Broadleaf Maduro wrapper with hearty Nicaraguan tobaccos. Pressed in the traditional Tampa style, the 5.5" x 46 Corona Gorda delivers the rich, full flavor and distinctive character of Perla del Mar Maduro in a classic size.

Cigar Aficionado writes, "Profound notes of espresso are conveyed with every puff, along with some black pepper and earth. Touches of leather and brown sugar appear on the finish. The draw is substantial while the burn stays sharp and even."

Read the full feature via the link below.

Read More

JOYA DE NICARAGUA INTRODUCES ROSALONES TO THE U.S. MARKET

Joya de Nicaragua announces the expansion of Rosalones to the United States, bringing one of its oldest brands — with origins dating back to 1968 — to the world’s largest premium cigar market.

Originally reintroduced in the late 2010s for Spain, Rosalones quickly gained recognition for delivering authentic Nicaraguan character at an accessible price point. Following its international success, the brand now makes its national debut.

The launch includes Rosalones Reserva and Rosalones CT, both crafted with long-filler, aged tobaccos, offering a premium experience with an approachable profile. The blends deliver rich notes of earth, cocoa, and coffee, making Rosalones a versatile, everyday smoke.

Rosalones CT features an Ecuadorian Connecticut Shade wrapper over Nicaraguan binder and fillers (2/5 strength), available in:

  Robusto 5 x 50 (RC550) — $6.99 per cigar / $139.80 per box (20ct)

  Toro 6 x 52 (RC652) — $7.99 per cigar / $159.80 per box (20ct)

Rosalones Reserva features a Nicaraguan Habano Criollo Colorado wrapper over Nicaraguan binder and fillers (3/5 strength), available in:

Robusto 5 x 50 (RR550) — $6.99 per cigar / $139.80 per box (20ct)

  Toro 6 x 50 (RR650) — $7.99 per cigar / $159.80 per box (20ct)

Rosalones will debut at the PCA Convention & Trade Show 2026 at the SAG Imports booth #3447, where orders will be taken and shipments to retailers are scheduled for late May 2026.

Rosalones offers a straightforward introduction to premium cigars — rooted in tradition, crafted with quality, and made for everyday enjoyment.

Joya de Nicaragua announces the release of Joya Red White and Blue

Joya de Nicaragua announces the release of Joya Red White and Blue, a limited-edition cigar created exclusively for the United States in celebration of the 250th anniversary of American independence.

"For decades, American cigar smokers have embraced Joya de Nicaragua and allowed us to grow alongside them,” said Joel Fernandez, SAG Imports National Sales Director, “This cigar is our way of saying thank you. As the United States celebrates 250 years of independence, we wanted to create something that could accompany our consumers during one of the most meaningful celebrations in their history. It also marks a special moment for us, as in 2026 we launch our independent distribution under SAG Imports in the United States — the world’s reference market for premium cigars.”

Joya Red White and Blue features an Ecuadorian H. wrapper over carefully selected binders and fillers from Jalapa & Esteli, crafted as part of the JOYA line alongside Joya Cabinetta, Red, Silver, and Black. True to the line’s signature approachability, it delivers a medium-bodied smoking experience, enhanced by extended aging to achieve a smoother, more refined expression that highlights the vibrant character of Joya.

The feel and look of the packaging was crafted in the same spirit as the occasion itself. Patriotic elements and quiet symbols of freedom, ambition, and the pursuit of new

horizons shape the band and the box in equal measure — honoring a country that has long inspired the world, and a cigar culture that has grown into one of its finest traditions.

“The packaging reflects the spirit of the celebration,” said Cristhian Lanzas, Marketing Director of SAG Imports. “It gently references American aviation, a symbol of freedom, ambition, and the pursuit of new horizons. The cigar band is also complemented by fifty stars encircling the design, representing the 50 states that form a nation that has long inspired the world.”

With a limited production of 500 boxes, Joya Red White and Blue will be presented in 10-count boxes in a traditional Toro (6 x 52) format, with an MSRP of $13.50 per cigar and $135 per box.

The cigar will make its official debut to retailers at the PCA Convention & Trade Show in New Orleans, at the SAG Imports Booth #3447, with shipments to U.S. cigar shops scheduled to begin in early June 2026, giving consumers time to enjoy it ahead of their Fourth of July celebrations.

JOYA DE NICARAGUA UNVEILS: CLÁSICO ORIGINAL GREEN ROOM SELECTION

In 1968, the first premium cigar factory in Estelí, Nicaragua opened its doors, founding Joya de Nicaragua and establishing the country as a serious cigar origin. The Joya de Nicaragua Clásico became the first premium cigar produced and exported from Nicaragua, winning the hearts of American cigar lovers through the 1970s and beginning the nation's ascent to  world-class status.

During that same era, Joya de Nicaragua was recognized as the foremost representative of New World cigars, offered to guests at The White House’s Green Room, where after formal dinners, politicians and diplomats would gather to relax, drink, and smoke. It is a moment that has become part of the brand's history: a cigar from Estelí earning its place on one of the most notable stages in the world.

But the meaning of the Green Room has long since traveled beyond Washington.

"The stories of the Green Room had been told through history and diplomacy many times, but for us the real meaning is much simpler," said Juan Martínez, Executive President of Joya de Nicaragua. "A cigar has the unique ability to bring people together and make everyone equal for a moment. It doesn't matter where you come from or what title you hold. Every smoker eventually creates his own Green Room, whether it's a quiet porch, a favorite chair, a local cigar shop, or a gathering with friends, a place where the ritual of a cigar becomes a moment of connection."

Joya de Nicaragua proudly introduces Clásico Original Green Room Selection, a tribute to the Clásico's enduring legacy, and to every Green Room the modern smoker calls his own.

Presented in one of the oldest formats hand-rolled at the Estelí factory since 1968, the 6x54 Diadema features an Ecuadorian Connecticut Shade wrapper over carefully aged Nicaraguan binder and fillers. The result is a balanced, refined smoke: mild, woody, and creamy, with a delicate structure and subtle pepper on the finish.

Clásico Original Green Room Selection will be released in 20-count boxes with an MSRP of $13.50 per cigar and $270 per box. A total of 1,200 boxes will be produced, with 700 allocated to the U.S. and 500 to international markets. The cigar will debut in New Orleans at the PCA Convention & Trade Show in April 2026 at the SAG Imports booth (#3447), with shipments to retailers scheduled shortly after the show.

CINCO DE CINCO CORONA DOBLE NOW AVAILABLE IN THE US

In 2023, as Joya de Nicaragua celebrated its 55th anniversary, the company introduced Cinco de Cinco. To develop this commemorative blend, our master blenders meticulously reviewed hundreds of blending sheets collected over the years at our factory tours. By analyzing the most frequently selected tobaccos, they created a blend that truly reflects the preferences of our global community of cigar lovers.

The cigar was named Cinco de Cinco — Spanish for “Five out of Five” — as it incorporates the tobaccos that visitors at our factory consistently rated as the very best. In other words, it is a true 5/5 recipe.

Today, Joya de Nicaragua is proud to announce the introduction in the US of Cinco de Cinco Corona Doble (7 x 54), originally a non-US exclusive vitola.

"Retailers and consumers continue to ask for formats that truly showcase the depth of a blend, and the Cinco de Cinco Corona Doble delivers exactly that. This vitola gives smokers the opportunity to experience the blend’s complexity over time, and we’re proud to bring another standout expression of the Cinco de Cinco line to the market." said Joel Fernandez, SAG Imports National Sales Director

Cinco de Cinco is crafted with ultra-vintage tobaccos, featuring a Mexican San Andrés wrapper over Nicaraguan binder and fillers, presented in a soft-pressed format. The result is a cigar that is truly a five out of five in profile and complexity: full-bodied with medium strength, delivering deep, rich, earthy character complemented by notes of cocoa and dark chocolate.

Named Cigar of the Year by Cigar Snob Magazine, this award-winning cigar will be available in 10-count boxes with an MSRP of $21.99 per cigar and $219.99 per box. The Cinco de Cinco Corona Doble will be unveiled to U.S. retailers this April at the PCA Convention & Trade Show in New Orleans, with shipments scheduled to begin immediately following the show.

Camacho Cigars launches the Limited Edition 2026

Camacho Cigars is proud to introduce the Camacho Limited Edition 2026, the second release in its Boldly Built by Masters series. This release pays tribute to Camacho's Master Blending Competence Center, a team of Master Blenders who contribute their unique skills to consistently delivering the highest standards. It is these uncompromising standards and relentless pursuit of quality that have shaped Camacho's bold character over the last few decades. Their passion and expertise are reflected in the cigar's very essence. Now, Camacho aficionados can experience the depth of their craft with every puff.

Handcrafted in Honduras, the Limited Edition 2026 is presented in a technically demanding perfecto format and showcases the full range of Camacho's bold character through a multi-origin cigar that evolves from start to finish. More than a celebration of craftsmanship, it is a recognition of the experience and discipline behind every Camacho cigar.

"The Camacho Limited Edition 2026 celebrates those whose work has shaped Camacho for decades," says Javier González, SVP Head Global Marketing & Innovation at Oettinger Davidoff. "The best tribute we could give them was to put that experience into the cigar itself. The perfecto format lets the blend unfold from the first draw to the last, delivering a layered, uncompromising smoking experience that captures everything Camacho stands for."

Taste experience

Wrapped in an Ecuadorian leaf over a Honduran binder and filler tobaccos from Honduras, Nicaragua and the Dominican Republic, the Camacho Limited Edition 2026 delivers an evolving, medium-intense smoking experience across its 60 to 80 minutes, with notes of spice, cream and herbs.

Dimensions perfecto: 56 x 6" | 2.2 x 15.2 cm

Intensity: 3.5 out of 5

Packaging

The Camacho Limited Edition 2026 is presented in a matte black wooden box containing 15 hand-rolled perfectos. White and gold branding, the iconic Camacho scorpion, and a black-and-gold tobacco leaf interior elevate the unboxing experience, while a Chaveta-shaped window reveals the cigars, paying homage to the craftsmanship that went into making them.

Launch & availability

The Camacho Limited Edition 2026 will be available as of 3 September 2026.*, with 4,000 boxes available worldwide.

*Launch date and availability may vary depending on country.

Valentino Siesto Cigars presents Orange Black and its private-label brand Velero at InterTabac 2026

From September 15 to 17, Valentino Siesto Cigars will return to InterTabac at Booth 4.C28, Hall 4, presenting the continued evolution of its Black Series alongside its private-label brand Velero.

Orange Black: The Star of InterTabac 2026

With Nero Black, Nero Black N.2, Yellow Black and now Orange Black, what began as a product line has evolved into a recognizable family of cigars, each with its own identity and character.

Orange Black will initially be presented as a Robusto 50 × 5 with a Maduro wrapper.

"Orange Black represents exactly where we want to take the Black family: recognizable cigars with a shared identity, but with each expression offering its own character and experience. It will take center stage at InterTabac 2026 and is a true expression of A Masterpiece for Every Day."

- Valentino Siesto, Founder

Velero: The Power of Pause, Inspired by the Adriatic

The idea behind Velero was born on the shores of the Adriatic. Its name evokes sailing and the special sense of pause found at sea: slowing down, being present and enjoying the moment.

Handmade in the Dominican Republic, Velero arrives at InterTabac in four expressions: Navegante

Maduro, Horizonte Robusto, Admiral Torpedo and Marinero Toro - created for those who, like us, appreciate The Power of Pause.

"A pause is not time lost; it is time fully experienced. The Adriatic and the rhythm of sailing provided the natural inspiration for Velero. We look forward to presenting its four expressions in Dortmund."

- Aleks Djuretic, Velero Brand Owner

J.C. Newman Cigar Co. begins shipping the all-new Quorum Double Gordo 5-Pack Sampler Bag

This week, J.C. Newman Cigar Co. begins shipping the all-new Quorum Double Gordo 5-Pack Sampler Bag to retailers.

This new package allows customers to experience all three Quorum blends, bundled into one convenient 5-pack. The sampler pack has a suggested retail price of $17.52 and includes:

•  Two Quorum Classic Double Gordo (6” x 60)

•  Two Quorum Shade Double Gordo (6” x 60)

•  One Quorum Maduro Double Gordo (6” x 60)

Quorum is the top-selling cigar brand from Nicaragua. Quorum is handmade at J.C. Newman’s PENSA factory in Estelí, Nicaragua, a country known for its rich soil and growing some of the world’s heartiest, full-bodied tobaccos. This new sampler provides a convenient new package for both retailers and consumers in addition to the existing Quorum Toro Sampler Bag.

Montecristo Espada Conquistador Guard (6 x 50)

Video review HERE.

(Description taken from Halfwheel.com website)

The newest installment in Altadis U.S.A.’s Montecristo Espada line has begun shipping.

The line is described as a medium to full-bodied, all-Nicaraguan blend, with a wrapper from Jalapa, a binder from the volcanic island of Ometepe, and fillers from Condega and Estelí. Plasencia is making the cigars at its factory in Estelí, with the line offered in four sizes:

Montecristo Espada Conquistador Ricasso (5 x 54) — $19.95 (Box of 10, $199.50)

Montecristo Espada Conquistador Guard (6 x 50) — $20.95 (Box of 10, $209.50) REVIEWED TODAY

Montecristo Espada Conquistador Quillon (7 x 56) — $21.95 (Box of 10, $219.50)

Montecristo Espada Conquistador Magnum Especial (6 x 60) — $22.50 (Box of 10, $225)

Plasencia has made the previous releases in the Espada by Montecristo line, which includes the original line that debuted in 2014 and was notable for being the first all-Nicaraguan Montecristo release. It was followed by the Estoque from 2015, the Oscuro from 2019, and the Signature from 2021.

The cigar is nicely made and has an average to good feel in the hand.

The test draw after cutting the cap was good. The initial flavors at light up were orange citrus with apricot, brown sugar, and a lot of leather and black coffee. There was black pepper rated at 7 1/2 to 8. Nice start.

At the first third (24 minutes) the leather and black coffee are up and there's a little earthiness. The sweet notes are there but they can't quite keep up with the elevated leather and black coffee. The cigar is full bodied. The finish is leather with very good lingering black pepper. The cigar is nice but there's a little too much leather and black coffee. I rated the first third 93.

Moving through the second third (52 minutes) the cigar kept going at a slow roll with a little more leather, black coffee, and earthiness. The cigar is quite full bodied. The finish is a syrupy citrus with light black coffee and very good lingering black pepper. You must go slow with this cigar. If you go fast you'll get nothing but leather and black coffee. The sweet notes can't keep up with a fast burn. I rated the second third 92.

The cigar lasted 1 hour 20 minutes. It is the best it's been at this point. There is a defined orange citrus note with a lot of brown sugar. The leather and black coffee pulled back. The cigar is still full bodied. The finish is citrus with a lot of brown sugar with just a touch of black coffee and very good lingering black pepper. I rated the final third 94. I wish the whole cigar was like the final third.

Overall Score: 93

Bishops Blend Robusto (2026) (5 x 48)

Video review HERE.

(Description provided by Black Label Trading Co.)

Black Label Trading Company is pleased to announce the shipment of Bishops Blend to select retailers beginning this week. Bishops Blend is handcrafted in Esteli, Nicaragua at Fabrica Oveja Negra.

BISHOPS BLEND is a limited release that was first released in 2016.

“It’s been ten years since we introduced Bishops Blend, and it has grown into one of our most sought-after releases. To celebrate this milestone, this year’s edition features a double-wrapper presentation, pairing the original Ecuadorian Maduro with Connecticut Broadleaf. The addition of Broadleaf in both the filler and wrapper further enhances the cigar’s rich, elegant, and complex character, taking it to an entirely new level. Smokers can expect the same bold profile that has defined Bishops Blend, highlighted by notes of anise, pepper, raisins, and a lingering sweet earthiness on the finish,” said James Brown, creator of Black Label Trading Co. and partner at Fabrica Oveja Negra.

Blend and Origin:

Country of Origin: Nicaragua

Wrapper: Ecuador Maduro and Connecticut Broadleaf

Binder: Ecuador Habano

Filler: Nicaragua, Connecticut & PA Broadleaf

Available vitolas:

Corona Larga – 6.25 x 46 (20 count) MSRP $13.50

Robusto – 5 x 48 (20 count) MSRP $13.00 REVIEWED TODAY

Lancero – 7 x 42 (12 count) MSRP $14.00

The cigar is dark and well made. It has an average feel in the hand.

The test draw after cutting the cap was good. But you have to cut the entire cap off to get a draw. The initial flavors at light up were orange citrus and lemon, brown sugar, and leathery black coffee. There was black pepper rated at 7 1/2. Nice start.

At the first third (18 minutes) there's a lot of black coffee in this cigar. Now there is also dark chocolate. The leather is gone. The sweet notes are not as intense as they could be. The cigar is medium bodied. The finish is black coffee and very good lingering black pepper. I rated the first third 93.

As I moved through the second third (33 minutes) the black coffee is pretty intense and has risen some. The dark chocolate is still there and the sweet notes have decreased. The cigar is medium to full bodied. The finish is dark chocolate and black coffee with very good lingering black pepper. The cigar has gotten darker with a little loss of sweetness. I rated the second third 92.

The cigar lasted 52 minutes. It stayed about the same through the final third. The cigar reached full bodied. The finish was unchanged. The dark notes are very nice but there needs to be more of the sweeter notes. I rated the final third 92.

Overall Score: 92.33

NESTOR MIRANDA PRIVATE RESERVE LANCERO NOW SHIPPING TO RETAILERS NATIONWIDE

Miami Cigar & Co. announces that the Nestor Miranda Private Reserve Lancero is now shipping to premium cigar retailers nationwide.

Originally reintroduced at the 2026 Premium Cigar Association (PCA) Trade Show in New Orleans, the Nestor Miranda Private Reserve Lancero is now making its way to tobacconists across the country. Following a strong reception from retailers and industry professionals at PCA 2026, the limited-production release offers cigar enthusiasts an opportunity to experience one of Nestor Miranda’s most beloved vitolas.

The reintroduction of the Lancero format continues that approach, bringing back a vitola long favored by experienced smokers. Often regarded as one of the purest expressions of a blend, the lancero demands precision in both construction and composition.

This release features a Dominican Corojo wrapper, Nicaraguan Criollo ‘98 binder, and a blend of Dominican, Nicaraguan, and Brazilian fillers, and is produced at La Aurora in the Dominican Republic, resulting in a smoking experience defined by nuance and balance.

Produced in limited quantities of 500 boxes, the Private Reserve Lancero remains true to its original concept, selective, measured, and rooted in personal preference.

“The lancero has always been my favorite, it’s an elegant cigar, simple as that,” said Nestor Miranda. “At the end of the day, I smoke what I enjoy, and this is exactly that.”

To mark the arrival of the Nestor Miranda Private Reserve Lancero, Nestor Miranda will host a private, invitation-only event at Sabor Havana Cigars & Cocktail Lounge in Doral, Florida, in conjunction with Long Ashes Cigar Club.

The packaging, defined by deep blue tones and a classic tile-inspired pattern, subtly reflects the intersection of Cuban heritage and Miami’s refined, coastal aesthetic.

Subtle in presentation yet grounded in tradition, the Private Reserve Lancero reflects that same duality, honoring heritage while embracing the spirit and evolution of Miami.

The Nestor Miranda Private Reserve Lancero is now shipping to premium cigar retailers nationwide.

Product Details:

Vitola: 6 3/4 x 40 Lancero

Wrapper: Dominican Corojo

Binder: Nicaraguan Criollo ‘98

Filler: Dominican, Nicaraguan & Brazilian

Factory: La Aurora, Dominican Republic

Packaging: 10 cigars per box

Production: 500 boxes

MSRP: $18 per cigar, $180 per box

Havana Q Double Toro 3-Pack Bags now available

Earlier this year, J.C. Newman Cigar Co. introduced the new Havana Q Double Toro 3-Pack at the Total Product Expo (TPE) in Las Vegas. This week, we will begin shipping these all-new 3-pack bags of cigars to retailers.

This new package is ideal for customers discovering Havana Q for the first time, as well as longtime fans seeking a convenient, grab-and-go option. The 3-pack has a suggested retail price of $9.95.

Handmade at J.C. Newman’s PENSA factory in Estelí, Nicaragua, Havana Q features a genuine Havana-seed wrapper grown by the Oliva family on the alluvial plains at the base of the Cotuguay Mountains in Ecuador’s renowned Guayas tobacco region. The unique soil and climate mirror those of Cuba’s famed Viñales Valley in the Pinar del Río province, contributing to the cigar’s distinctive character. Havana Q has earned a loyal following for its smooth, flavorful profile and exceptional value.

J.C. Newman Ships New Diamond Crown MAXIMUS

Today, J.C. Newman Cigar Co. begins shipping the reimagined Diamond Crown MAXIMUS cigars. The new Diamond Crown MAXIMUS will feature elegant new packaging and a bolder, yet still refined, blend of hearty tobaccos. Diamond Crown MAXIMUS will remain in boxes of 20 cigars and the suggested retail price will not change.

“Diamond Crown MAXIMUS is the final cigar that my grandfather Stanford J. Newman created,” said fourth-generation owner Drew Newman. “MAXIMUS is a collaboration between the three remaining cigar families in the ‘Cigar City’ of Tampa, Florida: Arturo Fuente, J.C. Newman and John Oliva. They came together in 2002 to create MAXIMUS to celebrate J.C. Newman’s 105th anniversary.”

The Fuente, Newman and Oliva families have been friends for more than 60 years. These three families represent half of the inaugural 1997 class of Cigar Aficionado’s Cigar Hall of Fame. To create Diamond Crown MAXIMUS, Carlos Fuente Jr. blended this special cigar with Stanford J. Newman using an exclusive El Bajo Sungrown wrapper grown by John Oliva Sr., in Ecuador.

El Bajo is a pristine valley in Ecuador where a mountain’s natural minerals and nutrients, washed down by centuries of rain, have made the soil exceptionally rich and perfect for growing tobacco. Only the richest, heartiest and darkest tobacco from the top priming ‘corona’ of the plant is used in Diamond Crown MAXIMUS. Its rich body allows the wrapper leaves to be refermented, further contributing to its full flavor and dark color. Matched with this incredible wrapper are the finest filler tobaccos grown in the Caribbean Basin, creating a complex and full-flavored blend.

For more than two decades, Diamond Crown MAXIMUS has been known for its distinctive box design. In 2002, Drew Newman created the unique royal blue “M” box with shoulders and feet. A decade ago, J.C. Newman removed the “M” and deepened the box’s color. Diamond Crown MAXIMUS will now be presented in a stunning handmade box that stands on columns and has capitals on the lid and top and bottom of the column feet.

This past weekend, third-generation owner Eric Newman officially relaunched Diamond Crown MAXIMUS on The Cigar Authority Podcast with 2 Guys Cigars.

Diamond Crown MAXIMUS cigars are flavorful with flawless construction and superb quality. Cigar Aficionado has recently rated Diamond Crown MAXIMUS a 92 and named it the No. 4 Cigar of 2009. Read more about the reimagined Diamond Crown MAXIMUS via Cigar Aficionado's "Stronger Blend And Bold New Look For Diamond Crown Maximus".

Don Emmanuel Moon (6 1/2 x 50)

Video review HERE.

(Description provided by Don Emmanuel Cigars)

Following a successful debut at the 2026 Premium Cigar Association (PCA) Trade Show, where the release generated strong interest from retailers and media alike, Don Emmanuel Cigars is now shipping its Sun & Moon Limited Edition to retailers nationwide.

Created through a collaboration between Don Emmanuel and legendary master blender Eladio Díaz, Sun & Moon brings together Emmanuel's vision and philosophy with Díaz's world-renowned blending expertise in a unique dual-blend concept presented within a single box.

Inspired by the natural relationship between light and time, energy and reflection, Sun & Moon was created to offer smokers two complementary interpretations of the same philosophy. The Sun blend captures brightness, vitality, and balance intended for daytime enjoyment, while the Moon blend reveals a deeper, richer, and more contemplative character suited for the evening.

Both cigars are crafted in a 6½ x 50 format and feature a blend of tobaccos aged up to 10 years, including select tobaccos aged in rum barrels, a rare process that contributes additional layers of aroma, complexity, and depth to the smoking experience.

Blend Details

Moon

Wrapper: Ecuador Habano

Binder: Mexico

Filler: Dominican Republic

Production is limited to 777 numbered boxes, each containing 14 cigars — seven Sun and seven Moon — allowing smokers to experience both interpretations of the concept within a single presentation.

The suggested retail price is $350 per box, with individual cigars priced at $25 each.

The cigar is dark and well made. It has a nice feel in the hand.

The test draw after cutting the cap was good with a touch of firmness. The initial flavors at light up were apricot, brown sugar, a touch of cinnamon, a little nougat, and earthy black coffee. There was black pepper rated at 7 1/2. Pretty good start.

At the first third (29 minutes) I'm noticing there is a substantial amount of black coffee in this blend. I still had the apricot, brown sugar, some of the nougat, very light cinnamon, and quite a bit of earthy black coffee. The cigar is medium bodied. The finish is apricot with light black coffee and very good lingering black pepper. The cigar is nice. I rated the first third 94.

Moving through the second third (1 hour) the black coffee is elevated and there is some bitterness. The apricot is there but it has some bitterness. The black coffee is up and there is more earthiness. The cigar is medium to full bodied. The finish is a lot of black coffee with minor hints of apricot and very good lingering black pepper. The black coffee is getting in the way and bitterness is never a good thing. I rated the second third 92.

The cigar lasted 1 hour 27 minutes. The bitterness subsided and the black coffee seemed to pull back a little. The cigar is full bodied. The finish has a little apricot and black coffee with very good lingering black pepper. The cigar seemed to move between the first and second thirds so I rated the final third 93. This cigar is good but has some issues with bitterness and elevated black coffee.

Overall Score: 93