Diplomáticos El Emisario: A Unique Swiss Regional Edition

Konstantin Denishev
Dec 9, 2024
4 min read

Updated: Mar 13

The Diplomáticos El Emisario is a standout addition to the Regional Edition series, created exclusively for Switzerland in 2021. This cigar represents the Diplomáticos brand's commitment to refined craftsmanship and distinct flavour profiles. Its bold and evolving character makes it a unique offering for aficionados seeking a cigar with an intriguing progression. Notably, the El Emisario features a dynamic blend that starts with an assertive, slightly harsh first third but transforms beautifully into a smooth and complex finale, with an exceptional retrohale in the last third.

Flavour Profile

The Diplomáticos El Emisario is a medium to full-bodied cigar with a flavour journey that evolves significantly across its thirds.

First Third: The cigar begins with an intense start, dominated by strong peppery and earthy notes. The spice is bold on the palate, delivering a sharp kick that some may find harsh. Beneath the pepper, subtle hints of leather and wood emerge, though they take a backseat to the assertiveness of the spice. While the first third may feel overpowering for some, it sets the stage for the cigar’s transformative journey.
Second Third: As the cigar progresses, the boldness mellows, and the flavours start to harmonise. The pepper softens, allowing cedar and toasted nuts to come to the forefront. A light caramel sweetness emerges, balancing the remaining spice with a creamier texture. The smoke becomes more velvety, and a hint of cocoa begins to develop, introducing complexity without overwhelming the palate. This transition is where the cigar starts to shine, revealing the depth of its blend.
Final Third: The last third is a revelation. The harshness from the opening is completely gone, replaced by a smooth and balanced profile. Notes of espresso, dark chocolate, and toasted almonds dominate, with a subtle molasses sweetness rounding out the flavours. The retrohale in this third is exceptional, offering a refined mix of spice, cedar, and cocoa that elevates the overall experience. The finish is long and satisfying, with lingering notes of coffee and a touch of oak, leaving the smoker with a sense of completion and satisfaction.

This dramatic progression from bold and sharp to smooth and luxurious makes the Diplomáticos El Emisario a compelling and memorable cigar.

Vitola Details

Here are the specifications for the Diplomáticos El Emisario:

Factory Name: Gordito con cabeza tumbada
Dimensions: Ring gauge 50 x Length 141 mm (5 11/20 inches)
Construction: Handmade in Cuba
Wrapper: Cuban, specially aged for this Regional Edition
Binder & Filler: Cuban
Strength: Medium to Full-bodied
Packaging: Limited to 15,000 numbered boxes of 10 cigars

The Gordito con cabeza tumbada vitola, featuring a unique 109-style cap, adds a distinctive aesthetic and functional appeal, allowing for a comfortable cut and an optimal draw.

Construction and Craftsmanship

The Diplomáticos El Emisario is a testament to Cuban craftsmanship. Its wrapper is smooth and slightly oily, with minimal veins, giving it a refined and elegant appearance. The construction is impeccable, with a firm roll that ensures a consistent draw and even burn throughout the smoking session. The cigar produces a solid ash that holds well, reflecting the quality of the tobaccos used and the expertise of the torcedores.

While the first third may present an intensity that requires a deliberate approach, the smooth draw allows the smoker to appreciate the gradual evolution of flavours. The construction supports the transition beautifully, ensuring a seamless shift from boldness to balance.

Ideal Pairings

To fully enjoy the complexity of the Diplomáticos El Emisario, consider pairing it with beverages that complement its robust yet refined profile:

Aged Rum: The caramel and vanilla notes in an aged rum harmonise with the cigar’s cocoa and nutty elements, enhancing the creamy finish.
Sherry-Cask Aged Scotch: The dried fruit and oak notes of a sherry-aged single malt align perfectly with the cigar’s mid-point sweetness and woody base.
Cognac: A well-aged Cognac balances the bold opening and complements the smoothness of the final third with its warm, fruity undertones.
Espresso: The bold, roasted flavours of espresso highlight the coffee and chocolate notes in the cigar’s final third, creating a luxurious pairing.

My pairing of choice for the evening:

A Cigar of Transformation

The Diplomáticos El Emisario is not just a cigar; it’s a journey. From its bold and peppery opening to its smooth, creamy finish, this Regional Edition offers a dynamic experience that keeps the smoker engaged throughout. The exceptional retrohale in the last third is a highlight, elevating the experience to one of sophistication and satisfaction. For those who appreciate cigars with a narrative, the El Emisario is a must-try.

Rating for Diplomáticos El Emisario

Here’s how the Diplomáticos El Emisario scores based on my rating system:

Appearance: 9/10 – A refined presentation with a smooth, slightly oily wrapper and a distinctive 109-style cap.
Aroma: 7/10 – Rich and earthy, with a bold spice on the first light.
Flavour: 17/20 – Complex and evolving, with a unique transformation from boldness to balance.
Draw: 9/10 – Consistently smooth, allowing for full appreciation of the cigar’s flavours.
Burn: 8/10 – Even burn with a firm ash that reflects expert construction.
Construction: 10/10 – Impeccable craftsmanship, showcasing the expertise of Cuban torcedores.
Strength: 7/10 – Medium to full-bodied, offering a dynamic and rewarding experience.
Finish: 9/10 – Smooth and satisfying, with a long-lasting aftertaste and an exceptional retrohale in the final third.
Overall Experience: 8/10 – A memorable and unique cigar that stands out for its progression and craftsmanship.

Total Score: 84/100

Watch My Full Video Review!

For a detailed look at the Diplomáticos El Emisario, don’t miss my full video review! I explore its bold opening, complex transition, and smooth finish, highlighting the exceptional retrohale and discussing ideal pairings. See why this Regional Edition for Switzerland is a cigar worth experiencing.

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