When it comes to premium cigars, few manufacturers carry the legacy and reputation that J.C. Newman Cigar Co. has cultivated over more than a century of craftsmanship. Among their most iconic creations is Diamond Crown, a brand that has not only stood the test of time but has continuously evolved. With the recent redesign of the Diamond Crown Classic (Shade) and Diamond Crown Maduro, J.C. Newman has once again proven its commitment to delivering exceptional cigars, appealing to both seasoned connoisseurs and new enthusiasts alike.
The Diamond Crown Legacy: A Rich History of Excellence
The Diamond Crown line was originally an American brand from the 1930s but was reimagined and reintroduced as a Dominican cigar in 1995 by J.C. Newman. It quickly became a cornerstone of the J.C. Newman portfolio, establishing itself as the company’s first super-premium cigar. The Diamond Crown brand has since expanded into several spinoffs, including Diamond Crown Cigar Lounges and Diamond Crown Humidors, offering cigar lovers premier ways to enjoy their smokes both publicly and privately.
The redesign of the Diamond Crown Classic and Maduro reflects the brand’s ongoing evolution while staying true to its heritage. Known for its premium quality, luxurious craftsmanship, and smooth, refined flavors, Diamond Crown has become synonymous with sophistication and elegance in the cigar world. The packaging update, which now features sleek white boxes with navy and gold fileteado, elevates the brand’s premium status while maintaining the classic, timeless appeal that Diamond Crown has always embodied.
New Packaging, Same Legendary Cigar
The redesign of Diamond Crown’s packaging marks a new era for the brand. The updated boxes now feature a refined, modern design with elegant navy and gold accents, adding a sense of sophistication to the cigar’s visual presentation. The new box count has also increased to 20 cigars per box, responding to consumer demand for greater value without sacrificing the brand’s luxurious feel.
The new packaging enhances the premium nature of Diamond Crown cigars while remaining rooted in its historical legacy. The original vista, which depicted Queen Victoria flanked by Edward VII and Prince Albert, reflects the dedication of Eric, Bobby, and Drew Newman to uphold the company’s history while delivering exceptional products to consumers. The bold design elements continue to reinforce Diamond Crown’s status as a luxury item in the world of cigars.
Crafting the Diamond Crown Blend: A Commitment to Perfection
The inspiration behind the creation of Diamond Crown came from Stanford Newman, who sought to make a larger ring-gauge cigar with bolder flavor while still catering to the American palate, which at the time favored milder tobaccos like Connecticut Shade and Candela. Having previously achieved success with La Unica and Cuesta-Rey, Stanford turned to his old friends, Carlito Fuente and Don Carlos, to bring this vision to life. The result was a cigar unlike any other.
The Diamond Crown blend features a Connecticut Shade wrapper that has been fermented to a rich, Rosado hue. This wrapper, along with the aged Dominican fillers sourced from the fertile tobacco-growing region of Villa Gonzalez in the Dominican Republic, creates a smooth and complex flavor profile. The cigars are aged for five years in cedar vaults, ensuring a deep and balanced taste.
The larger ring gauge of the Diamond Crown cigars allows the complex flavors of the aged Dominican fillers to shine through, creating a cigar that is rich in flavor yet incredibly smooth. The blend of mild Connecticut wrapper and rich Dominican filler offers a harmonious balance that appeals to a wide range of tastes. Whether you prefer a mild cigar or one with more body and complexity, Diamond Crown delivers in every puff.
Comparing the Taste: Diamond Crown Classic vs. Diamond Crown Maduro
The Diamond Crown Classic is known for its smooth and refined flavor profile. Featuring a Connecticut Shade wrapper, this cigar offers a creamy texture with subtle notes of cedar, nuts, and a hint of sweetness. The expertly aged Dominican fillers provide a balanced complexity that ensures a consistent and elegant smoking experience. Ideal for those who prefer milder cigars, the Classic series is perfect for pairing with a light coffee or champagne.
In contrast, the Diamond Crown Maduro boasts a richer and bolder taste profile, thanks to its dark, oily Connecticut Broadleaf wrapper. This cigar delivers deep flavors of cocoa, espresso, and a touch of spice, underpinned by the same aged Dominican fillers found in the Classic. The Maduro’s slightly fuller body makes it a great choice for those seeking a more robust experience, especially when paired with a glass of aged bourbon or a robust red wine.
While both cigars share the same meticulous craftsmanship and commitment to quality, the difference lies in their flavor profiles. The Classic caters to those who appreciate a milder, creamy smoke, while the Maduro offers a richer, more intense experience. Together, they provide a versatile range of options for every palate.
The Influence of Carlito Fuente: A Tribute to a Master Cigar Maker
One of the key elements that sets Diamond Crown apart from other premium cigars is the collaboration between J.C. Newman and the legendary Fuente family. Carlito Fuente and Don Carlos, both grandmasters of the cigar industry, played a pivotal role in the creation of the Diamond Crown blend. Carlito Fuente has often said, “There is no better cigar I make than a Diamond Crown,” a testament to the care and expertise that went into crafting the cigar.
Carlito’s respect for Stanford Newman and his dedication to creating a premium cigar resulted in a product that is cherished by cigar lovers around the world. At Diamond Crown cigar dinners, Carlito Fuente has been quoted as saying, “This is a cigar for the man I love,” reflecting the deep bond between the Fuente and Newman families.
The Smoking Experience: A Journey in Every Puff
Smoking a Diamond Crown is more than just an act of enjoyment; it’s an experience. The smoothness of the Connecticut wrapper and the rich complexity of the Dominican fillers create a sensory journey that captivates the smoker from the first draw to the last puff. Diamond Crown cigars are meticulously constructed, with a draw that is effortless and a burn that is even and consistent.
The Diamond Crown Maduro, with its dark and fermented Broadleaf wrapper, offers a slightly bolder experience. Despite its dark appearance, the Maduro version maintains a smooth and pleasant flavor profile, making it ideal for those who enjoy a slightly more robust smoking experience.
A Wide Range of Sizes: The Perfect Fit for Every Smoker
One of the defining features of the Diamond Crown series is its versatility in size. Whether you prefer a smaller cigar or a larger, more robust smoke, Diamond Crown offers a range of sizes, from torpedo to toro and double robusto, to suit every taste and occasion. The different sizes allow smokers to enjoy the same premium blend with varying smoking times, making it easier to find the perfect fit for any situation.
Diamond Crown: A Cigar for the Ages
With its rich history, exceptional craftsmanship, and renewed packaging, Diamond Crown continues to be one of the finest premium handmade cigars on the market. Whether you’re a seasoned aficionado or a newcomer to the world of cigars, the Diamond Crown experience is one that should not be missed. The updated packaging and continued commitment to quality and craftsmanship ensure that Diamond Crown will remain a favorite for years to come.
Conclusion: Timeless Craftsmanship, Modern Elegance
Diamond Crown cigars represent the pinnacle of handmade cigar craftsmanship. With their rich flavor profile, luxurious construction, and storied history, they offer an unparalleled smoking experience. The recent packaging redesign reflects the brand’s continued dedication to quality and excellence, ensuring that Diamond Crown will remain a beloved choice for cigar aficionados for years to come. Whether you’re new to the world of cigars or a seasoned enthusiast, Diamond Crown delivers a premium smoking experience that is unmatched in the industry.