De Nobili

De Nobili represents one of America's most authentic Italian-style cigar traditions, crafted with 100% dark fire-cured Kentucky and Tennessee tobaccos using time-honored European dry-curing methods. These distinctive cigars are made in the original European style and are similar to the Toscano-style smokes that Clint Eastwood made famous in his Spaghetti Westerns. Known for their rustic appearance and bold character, De Nobili cigars deliver a unique smoking experience characterized by hickory mesquite notes and earthy sweetness. The brand was notably a favorite of Frank Sinatra, who claimed that "He'd rather be around three De Nobili cigars blowing in my face all night" than take in fresh air. These machine-made cigars offer exceptional value while maintaining the authentic Italian-American heritage that has made them a staple in New York's Italian community for over a century.

Background

The De Nobili Cigar Company was incorporated in New York in 1912 and was based in Long Island City in Queens, founded by Prospero De Nobili to manufacture a variety of tobacco products, including cigars. The brand's cigar origins actually date back to 1896, close to the time when Italian immigrants were establishing their presence in America. Originally created by Italian immigrants to cater to their fellow countrymen who were yearning for a taste of home, these cigars quickly gained popularity among others, evolving into a mainstream favorite. During its peak, De Nobili was the biggest competitor to other Italian cigar brands and was accountable for over 90% of Italian cigar sales in the New York and surrounding area. The company was acquired by the Suraci brothers (Parodi Cigar Company) in 1952, who continued to produce De Nobili cigars after the acquisition. In 2015, the parent company was acquired by Manifatture Sigaro Toscano, part of the Maccaferri Group, bringing the brand full circle to its Italian roots.

History

De Nobili's origins trace back to 1895-1896, when the brand was established to serve the growing Italian-American population. Originally produced in Scranton, Pennsylvania since 1895, and later in Long Island City, New York until 1945. After 1945, production was consolidated with other Italian-style brands in the same Scranton, Pennsylvania factory. Today, these distinctive cigars are manufactured in the La Aurora Cigar Factory in Santiago de los Caballeros, Dominican Republic, while maintaining their traditional recipe and character.

Reputation

De Nobili cigars have been around for over 100 years and the De Nobili brand is recognized as the New York brand, famously referenced in "The Godfather" book and featured in many movies depicting Italian American culture, including "Mean Streets". The brand's classic little blue and yellow pack was featured in many Hollywood productions in the 1950's and 1960's. De Nobili cigars have been a favorite for decades, maintaining their reputation through consistent quality and time-tested formulation. They are praised for offering quality comparable to Caribbean cigars at an exceptional value, typically under $1 per stick.