H Upmann No 2

H. Upmann No. 2: The Pyramid That Defined Cuban Excellence

Among the most celebrated torpedo-shaped cigars in the Cuban cigar lexicon, the H. Upmann No. 2 stands as a testament to traditional craftsmanship and refined smoking pleasure. This pyramid vitola has earned legendary status among aficionados, representing the perfect marriage between the H. Upmann brand’s characteristic elegance and the dynamic smoking experience that only a tapered format can deliver. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or exploring premium Cuban cigars for the first time, understanding what makes the No. 2 special reveals why this particular vitola has commanded respect in humidors worldwide for generations.

Product Overview: A Heritage of Refinement

The H. Upmann brand traces its roots to 1844, when German banker Hermann Upmann established his cigar house in Havana. What began as a side venture for marking quality cigars sent to European clients evolved into one of Cuba’s most distinguished marques. The No. 2 vitola emerged as the brand’s flagship pyramid, embodying the sophisticated character that H. Upmann built its reputation upon.

This cigar speaks to the discerning smoker who appreciates subtlety over power, complexity over one-dimensional strength. The torpedo shape concentrates the smoke through its tapered head, creating a focused delivery system that accentuates the nuanced flavors of premium Vuelta Abajo tobaccos. It’s not a cigar that shouts for attention—instead, it rewards patience with layers of creamy smoothness, gentle spice, and elegant aromatic transitions that evolve throughout the smoking experience.

The H. Upmann No. 2 represents the middle ground in the Cuban strength spectrum: assertive enough to satisfy experienced palates, yet refined enough to avoid overwhelming them. This balance makes it remarkably versatile, equally suited for afternoon contemplation or evening celebration.

Detailed Specifications

The Complete Tasting Journey

First Third: Elegant Introduction

The cold draw presents immediately with notes of sweet hay, cedar, and a delicate cocoa undertone. There’s a slight resistance—not too tight, not too loose—that seasoned smokers recognize as proper Cuban construction. Upon lighting the tapered foot, the first puffs deliver a creamy smoke with surprising volume, a hallmark of well-aged tobacco from the Vuelta Abajo region.

Initial flavors lean toward the elegant side: toasted almonds, light leather, and a buttery smoothness that coats the palate without heaviness. There’s a gentle white pepper note dancing on the retrohale, providing just enough stimulation to keep the profile interesting. The burn line establishes itself evenly, and the ash builds with a light gray color, holding firm for nearly an inch before requiring attention.

Second Third: Building Complexity

As the cigar opens up, the ring gauge’s fuller diameter begins contributing more substance to the smoke. This middle section introduces deeper earth tones—think fresh soil after rain rather than harsh dirt—complemented by evolving coffee notes that range from café con leche to darker espresso tones. The creamy texture remains constant, acting as a canvas for these developing flavors.

The pepper intensifies slightly, joined by subtle hints of cocoa that emerge more prominently than in the opening third. There’s a natural sweetness here, not cloying or artificial, but reminiscent of dried fruit or honey. The aroma becomes more pronounced, filling the immediate space with that distinctive Habanos character that’s impossible to replicate outside Cuba. Construction continues performing admirably, with the pyramid shape channeling smoke efficiently and the burn self-correcting any minor imperfections.

Final Third: Refined Finish

The conclusion of an H. Upmann No. 2 demonstrates why experienced smokers cherish this vitola. Rather than turning harsh or bitter—a common pitfall with lesser cigars—the No. 2 maintains its composure. The strength builds toward medium-full territory, but always remains controlled and refined. Earth notes deepen, the leather character becomes more prominent, and there’s a pleasant nuttiness that emerges alongside persistent cocoa undertones.

The retrohale in this final stretch reveals concentrated spice—black pepper now, with traces of cinnamon warmth. Yet that signature creaminess never completely disappears, tempering the stronger elements and ensuring a balanced finish. The cigar can be smoked down quite far without turning acrid, testament to quality tobacco selection and expert construction. The final puffs leave a satisfying impression: full-flavored without aggression, complex without confusion.

Comparative Analysis

Perfect Pairings for the No. 2

The H. Upmann No. 2’s refined character pairs beautifully with aged single malt Scotch whisky—think Glenlivet 18 or Glenfiddich 21, where the spirit’s complexity matches the cigar’s nuanced profile without overwhelming it. For coffee enthusiasts, a well-prepared cappuccino or café cortado creates harmonious interplay between the beverage’s creaminess and the cigar’s smooth smoke.

Consider this pyramid for late morning or early afternoon sessions when you have the full 90 minutes to dedicate. It shines during contemplative moments—perhaps while reading in a comfortable leather chair, or during unhurried conversation with fellow aficionados. The medium strength won’t overwhelm an empty stomach, yet it provides enough substance to stand alongside a light lunch.

For spirit alternatives, try a quality aged rum like Havana Club 15 Year or Ron Zacapa 23. The rum’s inherent sweetness complements the cigar’s cocoa and dried fruit notes, while the alcohol’s warmth enhances the tobacco’s natural spice. Even a well-crafted espresso martini can work surprisingly well, bridging the coffee notes found in both the cigar and cocktail.

Storage and Aging Considerations

Like all premium Habanos, the H. Upmann No. 2 benefits tremendously from proper humidification. Maintain these cigars at 65-68% relative humidity and around 65-68°F for optimal performance. The pyramid vitola, with its varying ring gauge from head to foot, can be particularly sensitive to humidity fluctuations—too dry and the wrapper may crack near the delicate tip; too moist and draw restriction becomes problematic.

These cigars respond exceptionally well to aging. Fresh boxes often show bright, forward flavors with more pronounced pepper. After 2-3 years of rest, the profile mellows considerably, allowing the creamy, cocoa-rich characteristics to emerge more fully. Well-stored examples from 5+ years back develop a refined smoothness that elevates the experience to another level entirely. The leather and earth tones deepen, the aroma becomes more complex, and that signature H. Upmann elegance truly shines.

Construction and Craftsmanship

The pyramid format demands exceptional rolling skill. Creating a cigar that maintains consistent draw from a 52 ring gauge body down to the pointed head requires years of torcedor training. The wrapper leaf must be applied with precision—too much tension and it tears at the delicate tip; too little and it loosens during smoking. H. Upmann’s torcedores demonstrate their mastery with the No. 2’s consistently excellent construction.

The wrapper itself typically displays an attractive medium-brown color with a slight oily sheen, evidence of quality Cuban leaf from the Vuelta Abajo region. Veins are minimal and well-integrated, and the overall appearance conveys craftsmanship. The cap application is particularly noteworthy—a perfectly formed flag that requires careful cutting to preserve the pyramid’s structural integrity. Use a sharp cutter and remove just the flag portion, leaving enough wrapper to prevent unraveling while opening the draw sufficiently.

Final Thoughts: A Pyramid Worth Seeking

The H. Upmann No. 2 represents everything a premium Cuban pyramid should be: impeccably constructed, elegantly balanced, and thoroughly satisfying from first puff to last. This isn’t a cigar that relies on strength or gimmicks—it succeeds through refinement, complexity, and that intangible quality that separates good cigars from genuinely memorable ones.

Whether you’re expanding your Cuban cigar knowledge or searching for a sophisticated smoke that pairs beautifully with fine spirits, the No. 2 deserves consideration. Its medium strength makes it versatile across different times of day, while the pyramid shape provides a dynamic smoking experience that keeps you engaged throughout the entire 90-minute journey.

Add a box to your humidor and experience why this particular vitola has maintained its legendary status across generations of aficionados. The H. Upmann No. 2 doesn’t just promise quality—it delivers it consistently, cigar after cigar.