Don Emmanuel Cigars, the boutique brand founded by Brazilian Master Cigar Sommelier Don Emmanuel, has announced the addition of Carlos Escalona, a veteran of Davidoff of Geneva, to its growing team. The move signals a new phase of expansion for the emerging brand—one built on artistry, collaboration, and a shared dedication to excellence.
The connection between Escalona and Don Emmanuel was forged through legendary master blender Eladio Díaz, who spent more than 30 years shaping Davidoff’s most iconic blends before founding Tabacalera Díaz Cabrera in the Dominican Republic. It was there that Díaz partnered with Don Emmanuel to create the company’s debut line, Anunnaki—a series inspired by ancient Sumerian mythology and composed of seven distinct tobaccos, including a rare Dominican wrapper and a Mexican San Andrés Negro binder.
“When Eladio told me about Don Emmanuel’s project, I was immediately intrigued,” said Escalona. “It represents the kind of creative and spiritual approach to cigar making that truly stands apart. I believe this brand has the potential to make a lasting mark on the industry.”
For Don Emmanuel, the collaboration represents a fusion of cultures, expertise, and vision. “To see someone like Carlos Escalona believe in what we’re creating is deeply meaningful,” he said. “Eladio and I built these cigars with soul and precision. Carlos brings the same dedication and understanding of what true luxury represents.”
Born in São Paulo, Brazil, Don Emmanuel has built a global reputation as one of the cigar world’s most dynamic new voices. A top-ranked Master Cigar Sommelier, he has led pairing events and masterclasses around the world, including at InterTabac, the largest tobacco fair in the world.
The Anunnaki Line
Crafted at Tabacalera Díaz Cabrera in the Dominican Republic, the Anunnaki is a seven-tobacco blend that balances power and refinement. The cigar opens with subtle sweetness and floral tones before deepening into layers of cedar, cocoa, coffee, and mineral spice.
- Wrapper: Dominican Republic
- Binder: Mexican San Andrés Negro
- Filler: Dominican Republic (five-region blend)
- Vitolas:
- Anu (6 × 52 Toro) – MSRP $18
- Ki (5 × 50 Robusto) – MSRP $17
- Corona Fina (4 × 38, Tin of 5) – MSRP $34.99
- Availability: Select premium tobacconists in the U.S., Latin America, and Europe
“Cigars are born of the elements—earth, air, fire, and water,” said Don Emmanuel. “Each carries history, emotion, and connection. The Anunnaki is my tribute to that timeless balance.”
With Díaz’s blending mastery, Escalona’s market expertise, and Emmanuel’s creative vision, Don Emmanuel Cigars represents a rare synthesis of heritage and innovation—proof that even in an age of icons, new legends continue to rise.