Experience the Essence of Turkish Heritage with Dalay Istanbul Cigar. Prepare to be captivated by a truly exceptional cigar that embodies the rich cultural heritage of Turkey. Luciano Cigars and Dalay Zigarren proudly present the Dalay Istanbul Cigar, a masterpiece that pays homage to Salih Dalay’s Turkish roots and his unwavering passion for tobacco. With over a decade in the making, this cigar is the culmination of Salih Dalay’s vision to create a truly unique and remarkable smoking experience featuring Turkish tobacco as a vital component of the blend.
Turkish tobacco is renowned for its distinct and captivating flavor profile, as well as its aromatic qualities that set it apart from all others. The Dalay Istanbul showcases the very best of Turkish tobacco, carefully selected and masterfully blended to deliver an unparalleled smoking journey. Witnessing the creation of the Dalay Istanbul is a testament to the exceptional collaboration between Salih Dalay, Michael Grossklos, and the skilled artisans at the Zauberberg factory. This endeavor has resulted in a cigar that stands as a true testament to their passion, expertise, and dedication to their craft. The Dalay Istanbul is a unique masterpiece that commands attention and reverence.
Not only does the Dalay Istanbul captivate with its extraordinary blend, but it also mesmerizes with its stunning artwork. The cigar ring showcases an original work of art created by the internationally acclaimed Turkish artist, Hasan Kale, known as the “Turkish Microangelo.” His intricate miniature art, featuring exquisite images of Istanbul itself, adorns the cigar ring, making it a true collector’s item. The original painting will be on display at the Luciano Cigars booth during this year’s PCA, offering a glimpse into the profound artistic journey that has brought the Dalay Istanbul to life.
Every aspect of the Dalay Istanbul has been meticulously crafted, including the design of the ring and box, which features original calligraphy art created by Salih’s daughter. This cigar truly represents a collaboration of love, dedication, and familial bonds. Salih’s son, who gained valuable experience during his internship at the Zauberberg factory, has also made significant contributions to the blending process, adding another layer of passion and expertise to this extraordinary creation.
As a PCA exclusive, the Dalay Istanbul will make its debut in the American market with a limited production cap of 1,000 boxes produced, inviting cigar enthusiasts and connoisseurs to embark on a journey that celebrates Turkish heritage and the artistry of tobacco. Prepare to be transported to the vibrant streets of Istanbul, as each draw entices your senses with its complex flavors and aromatic allure.
Strength: Medium-Full Bodied
Country: Nicaragua
Binder: Pennsylvania broadleaf
Filler: Dominican
Wrapper Origin: Ecuador
Wrapper Leaf: Corojo ’99
Box Count: 10
Daniel O’Connell (verified owner) –
A shame that these were both limited release and not available in great numbers – I will start by stating that if you do not want to try a cigar that is certainly unusual in flavour, then I would avoid these. This cigar is full of exotic smoky spices (the Turkish tobacco) that gives an impression more of a pipe (unsurprisingly) than a cigar. There’s a creme brulee (burnt caramel) sweetness that lasts most of the cigar, and plentiful smoke production. Cocoa and coffee are the undertones, but not in the ‘dark’ sense you would typically find in a Nicaraguan cigar – the notes here are far gentler in nature. Despite the small size, I found the burn time to be quite significant as well, lasting me most of an hour.
It’s a comment I’ve used before, but I would call this a European breakfast cigar, and given who it was rolled for (the owner of a German cigar shop that I’ve visited several times), I am not surprised. I just wish I could get more of these – these cigars were clearly blended with the intent of creating something truly unique, and not just a slightly different take on yet another Dominican or Nicaraguan blend.
Buy this if you want something truly unique; skip it if unorthodox cigar flavours aren’t your thing.
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Alexander S (verified owner) –
I really enjoyed this one. The Dalay Istanbul is the first time I have enjoyed a cigar with Turkish tobacco in it. It had a distinct sweetness to it that differentiates from any other sweet tobacco I have had before. The sweetness was more of a fruity sweetness. Plan to get more of these.
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Lou Cross (verified owner) –
The DALAY Istanbul cigar, while not without its merits, left me yearning for more. The initial draw promised a promising blend, yet it failed to deliver the complexity I anticipated. The flavor profile leaned towards a milder spectrum, lacking the depth and nuance I typically seek in a cigar.
Construction-wise, the burn was somewhat uneven in the last half, requiring occasional touch-ups to maintain a steady ember. Additionally, the ash tended to flake after the first inch or so, which can be a minor inconvenience.
While the Istanbul cigar may find its audience among those favoring a milder smoke, it left me wanting a bit more intensity and character. It’s a serviceable choice for a casual smoke, but for those seeking a more robust and intricate experience, there may be better options available. They can’t all be winners… 😃
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