Don Diego Cigars from the Dominican Republic
For over five decades, Don Diego cigars have been a staple in the premium longfiller market. No surprise, as they stand for top-notch quality and are crafted with the utmost precision by experienced experts. Exiled Cuban Pepe Garcia founded the brand in the 1960s – originally on the Canary Islands.
Following the U.S. embargo against Cuban cigars, Don Diego cigars found a new home in the Canaries before moving to the prestigious Tabacalera de Garcia in the Dominican Republic. There, master blender Jose Seijas ensured consistently high quality, earning the brand numerous awards.
The Don Diego Collection in Detail
The Don Diego Classic features an elegant Connecticut Shade wrapper that gives it a bright, silky appearance. Inside, it contains Dominican tobaccos along with filler leaves from Brazil. These provide a mild yet flavorful smoking experience with creamy smoke and notes of nuts, pepper, wood, and honey. It is particularly valued for its even burn and easy handling.
For true fans of the brand, there's also the stylish Don Diego ashtray – a refined accessory featuring the classic brand logo.
Design and Character of Don Diego Cigars
The cigar band is a real eye-catcher: A medieval-inspired crest with two horses, a shield – likely depicting a cigar – and a knight’s helmet, framed by stylized tobacco leaves. Subtle pastel tones and the "Don Diego" lettering make the design truly unique.
Finally, a look at Tabacalera de Garcia, which is regarded as the largest manufacturer of hand-rolled cigars. It is part of Altadis USA and produces not only Don Diego but also brands like Santa Damiana and Vega Fina. It is also home to Dominican versions of Montecristo, Romeo y Julieta, H. Upmann, and Trinidad.