One of the most rewarding aspects of the premium cigar world has always been the people behind it. While exceptional craftsmanship, heritage and fine tobacco remain at the heart of the industry, it is often the relationships built along the way that leave the strongest impression.
That sense of connection was evident throughout Emily Sahakian’s recent UK tour, as the co-founder of Chateau Diadem travelled across the country meeting retailers, lounge owners and cigar enthusiasts for a memorable week filled with conversation, hospitality and a shared passion for premium cigars.
The tour offered a fantastic opportunity for cigar lovers across the UK to spend time with one of the most exciting names in modern premium cigars, while also highlighting just how vibrant and welcoming the UK cigar community has become.
The journey began in Liverpool with a visit to Dominique London Group, where Emily was warmly welcomed by Chris, Raluca and Alex. The stop immediately set the tone for the tour, showcasing the kind of hospitality and enthusiasm that makes the cigar industry feel so uniquely personal. Great conversation, fantastic company and, by all accounts, an unforgettable mezcal margarita made for a memorable opening stop.
From there, the tour headed north to Harrogate for another standout gathering. Surrounded by passionate cigar enthusiasts, Emily spent time with Rosalie and James, whose warmth, generosity and genuine love for the industry helped create one of the highlights of the trip. James brought generations of tobacco heritage and knowledge to the conversation, while Rosalie’s incredible energy brought together a fantastic group of people united by their appreciation for premium cigars and the culture surrounding them.
Another memorable evening followed at Sam’s Aroma House, where guests were treated to an informal and intimate gathering in one of the UK’s finest luxury cigar lounges. Hosted by Sahar and Sanaz, the evening perfectly captured what makes cigar culture so special, exceptional cigars, relaxed surroundings and the kind of conversations that naturally flow when people share a passion for the leaf.
The tour continued at Havana House Cigar Emporium in Windsor, where cigar enthusiasts gathered for another fantastic evening centred around fine cigars and engaging discussion. Guests had the opportunity to learn more about Chateau Diadem directly from Emily herself, gaining valuable insight into the passion, philosophy and craftsmanship behind a brand that continues to grow rapidly within the premium cigar market.
To round off the visit, Emily spent a day immersed in London’s historic cigar scene, beginning in the iconic St James’s district with a tour of James J. Fox, one of the world’s most respected cigar merchants. The day continued with visits to Dominique London’s impressive Pall Mall location before heading to the renowned James J. Fox Cigar Room on Oxford Street.
The perfect finale came at Davidoff of London, where Emily joined Edward and Eddie Sahakian for an exclusive filmed interview, bringing together three highly respected names within the global cigar industry. It was a fitting conclusion to a week built around heritage, craftsmanship and a shared passion for premium cigars.
One particularly encouraging theme throughout the entire tour was seeing how the cigar industry continues to evolve. More women are finding their place within the world of premium cigars, bringing fresh perspectives, diversity and new energy into what has traditionally been seen as a male-dominated space. The industry is becoming stronger because of it.
Emily Sahakian’s UK visit served as a reminder that premium cigars have always represented more than simply tobacco. At their heart, cigars bring people together, creating conversations, friendships and shared experiences that often last far longer than the cigar itself.
And the Chateau Diadem story in the UK is far from over.
Looking ahead, cigar enthusiasts attending Summertime Smoke 2026 will have the opportunity to meet Thierry Patrick, the other half of Chateau Diadem, continuing the brand’s growing relationship with the UK cigar community.
If Emily’s visit proved anything, it is that Chateau Diadem is not simply producing exceptional cigars, it is building genuine connections with cigar lovers around the world, one conversation at a time.
A great cigar deserves a great light. While much attention is often given to selecting the perfect cigar, many smokers overlook the importance of the lighter itself. The truth is that the way a cigar is lit can have a significant impact on its burn, flavour, and overall smoking experience.
The first week of June saw PDR Cigars founder Abe Flores visit the UK as part of a memorable tour with the BLD team, bringing together retailers, cigar enthusiasts, and industry professionals across the country.
