Description
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Indulge in the timeless elegance of the H. Upmann No. 2, a distinguished Piramides vitola that embodies Cuban cigar mastery. This medium-bodied treasure offers a symphony of refined flavors, where notes of cedar, leather, coffee, and subtle spice intertwine to create an unforgettable smoking experience. A true testament to Habanos tradition, the No. 2 is a must-have for the discerning aficionado seeking complexity, nuance, and unparalleled sophistication.
Box Features and Packaging Options
| Feature | Box of 25 | Box of 10 |
|---|---|---|
| Cigars per Box | 25 | 10 |
| Packaging Type | Varnished Wooden Box | Varnished Wooden Box |
| Ideal For | Stocking your humidor, sharing with friends, extended aging | Sampling the blend, gifting, travel |
| Humidity Protection | Excellent (when properly stored) | Excellent (when properly stored) |
Cigar Specifications
| Vitola | Piramides (Torpedo, Figurado) |
| Length | 156 mm (6 1/8 inches) |
| Ring Gauge | 52 |
| Wrapper | Cuban |
| Binder | Cuban |
| Filler | Cuban |
| Strength | Medium |
| Body | Medium |
| Smoking Time | 90-120 minutes |
| Factory | Handmade in Cuba by Habanos S.A. |
| Brand Owner | Habanos S.A. |
Brand Heritage
Founded in 1844 by the visionary German banker Hermann Dietrich Upmann, the H. Upmann brand stands as a pillar of Cuban cigar history. Upmann, initially establishing himself in Havana as a banker and financier, recognized the potential of Cuban tobacco and began producing cigars as a complimentary business, quickly gaining recognition for exceptional quality. His bank eventually closed, but the cigar brand endured, becoming synonymous with refined taste and unwavering dedication to craftsmanship.
Over the past 178 years, the H. Upmann brand has weathered countless storms, including ownership changes, economic hardships, and the profound impact of the 1959 Cuban Revolution. Despite these challenges, the brand not only survived but thrived under state ownership by Habanos S.A., continuing to produce exceptional cigars that are cherished by aficionados worldwide. The H. Upmann marque represents resilience and an unwavering commitment to tradition.
The brand’s enduring appeal is further cemented by its historical associations with figures like Winston Churchill, a renowned devotee of Cuban cigars. This connection adds another layer of prestige to the H. Upmann name, evoking an era of timeless sophistication and unwavering appreciation for the finer things in life. Consistently ranked on Cigar Aficionado’s Top 25, H. Upmann remains a testament to the enduring legacy of Cuban cigar making.
Tasting Profile
First Third – The Opening
The H. Upmann No. 2 commences its journey with a welcoming introduction of cedar and subtle woody notes, immediately establishing its signature elegance. Delicate hints of floral undertones and a touch of chocolate emerge, creating a balanced and medium-intensity start that captivates the senses.
Second Third – The Heart
As the cigar progresses, the profile gracefully evolves, revealing a captivating core of roasted cashew and nutty richness. A creamy texture begins to develop, further enhancing the cigar’s luxurious character. The complexity subtly builds, maintaining the overall elegance while introducing new layers of flavor.
Final Third – The Crescendo
The final third marks a flavorful crescendo, as the H. Upmann No. 2 intensifies its profile with the emergence of leather, robust coffee, a dash of pepper, and a hint of exotic spice. This invigorating combination provides a satisfying and memorable conclusion to the smoking experience.
Finish
The finish is remarkably clean and lingering, leaving a pleasant impression of creamy, nutty persistence on the palate. Minimal bitterness ensures a smooth and enjoyable aftertaste, earning high marks in reviews for its exceptional quality.
Flavor Wheel
| Primary Notes | Cedar, Leather, Coffee |
| Secondary Notes | Chocolate, Nuts, Cream |
| Tertiary Notes | Pepper, Spice, Wood |
| Finish | Clean, Creamy, Nutty |
| Aroma | Rich Cuban Tobacco, Earthy, Woody |
Aging and Collector Value
The H. Upmann No. 2 possesses remarkable aging potential, rewarding patient collectors with a dynamic evolution of flavors over time. Cigars aged for 5-25+ years in a humidor can exhibit a transformation from initial cedar dominance to milder cashew nuances, culminating in a robust and complex finish. This vitola is known for its exceptional evolution and dynamic flavor shifts. Even when enjoyed fresh, the No. 2 offers a refined and elegant smoking experience, but cellaring allows for the development of secondary and tertiary flavors that elevate the cigar to new heights.
Optimal storage conditions are crucial for preserving the cigar’s oils and promoting the development of desirable flavors. Maintain a relative humidity of 65-72% and a temperature of 65-70°F in a cedar-lined humidor. Regularly monitor and adjust these conditions to ensure the cigars remain in pristine condition. Vintages from exceptional years, such as 1997, or special releases like the Reserva (using tobacco from the 2010 harvest), are particularly prized by collectors and offer exceptional returns on patience.
Perfect Pairings
| Beverage | Why It Works |
|---|---|
| Single Malt Whiskey (e.g., Lagavulin or Bowmore Port Wood Finish) | The smoky peat and rich character of a single malt amplify the cigar’s cedar, leather, and cashew notes, creating a harmonious and complex pairing. |
| Dark Rum | The sweetness and spice of dark rum complement the cigar’s chocolate and coffee notes, resulting in a decadent and satisfying combination. |
| Cognac | The oaky and fruity notes of cognac enhance the cigar’s overall complexity, creating a luxurious and refined pairing. |
| Strong Coffee | The bold flavors of strong coffee cut through the cigar’s richness and complement its spicy finish, providing a balanced and invigorating experience. |
| Smoky Cocktails (e.g., Penicillin) | The smoky and spicy elements of cocktails like the Penicillin mirror the cigar’s final-third flavors, creating a cohesive and adventurous pairing. |
| Espresso Martini | The coffee and slight sweetness of this martini blend well with the H. Upmann No. 2’s creaminess and coffee notes, providing a balanced and sophisticated experience. |
Authenticity Verification
We understand the importance of authenticity when purchasing premium Cuban cigars. We guarantee that all H. Upmann No. 2 cigars offered are 100% authentic, sourced directly from Habanos S.A. and their authorized distributors. To ensure your peace of mind, we provide the following guidelines for verifying the authenticity of your cigars:
- Habanos Holographic Seal – Each box of H. Upmann No. 2 cigars features the official Habanos holographic seal on the upper right-hand corner. This seal contains a unique serial number and intricate holographic patterns that are difficult to replicate.
- Box Code Verification – The bottom of each box is stamped with a unique factory code, indicating the date and location of production. You can use this code to verify the authenticity of your cigars through online Habanos S.A. resources.
- Factory Stamp – Authentic H. Upmann No. 2 cigars will have the factory code heat-stamped into the wood, indicating the cigar origin and production date.
- Triple Cap – Authentic H. Upmann No. 2 cigars feature a meticulously applied triple cap, a hallmark of Cuban craftsmanship. The cap should be perfectly aligned and seamlessly integrated into the cigar’s head.
Our Guarantee: If any cigar purchased from us fails Habanos verification, we provide a full refund. Trusted by collectors since 2015.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What does H. Upmann No. 2 taste like?
The H. Upmann No. 2 offers a complex and elegant flavor profile. Expect prominent notes of cedar, leather, and coffee, complemented by subtle hints of chocolate, nuts, and spice. The overall experience is medium-bodied and refined, making it a favorite among discerning cigar smokers.
How long does it take to smoke an H. Upmann No. 2?
The estimated smoking time for an H. Upmann No. 2 is approximately 90-120 minutes. This allows ample time to savor the cigar’s evolving flavors and enjoy a leisurely smoking experience. Factors such as your smoking pace and environmental conditions may influence the actual smoking time.
Is H. Upmann No. 2 a good cigar to age?
Yes, the H. Upmann No. 2 is an excellent cigar for aging. Over time, the flavors will evolve and mellow, creating a more nuanced and complex smoking experience. Aging allows the cigar to develop secondary and tertiary flavors, enhancing its overall character. Proper storage in a humidor is essential for optimal aging.
What’s the best pairing for H. Upmann No. 2?
The H. Upmann No. 2 pairs well with a variety of beverages, including single malt whiskey, dark rum, cognac, strong coffee, and smoky cocktails. The best pairing depends on your personal preferences, but the goal is to choose a beverage that complements the cigar’s flavors and enhances the overall experience.
