Description
Experience the legacy of Cuban cigar craftsmanship with the Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure No. 1, a distinguished Corona Gorda that embodies elegance in every puff. This light to medium-bodied cigar is a symphony of subtle yet complex flavors, offering a refined smoking experience characterized by its signature notes of cedar, spice, honey, and a hint of vanilla. A true classic from one of Cuba’s most revered brands, the Epicure No. 1 is a testament to the art of blending and a perfect choice for aficionados seeking a nuanced and approachable smoke.
Box Features and Packaging Options
| Feature | Box of 25 | Box of 3 |
|---|---|---|
| Cigars per Box | 25 | 3 |
| Packaging Type | Varnished Wooden Box | Cardboard Package |
| Ideal For | Long-term storage, sharing with friends, stocking your humidor | Sampling the blend, gifting, travel |
| Humidity Protection | Excellent (when stored properly) | Moderate (short-term storage recommended) |
Cigar Specifications
| Vitola | Corona Gorda |
| Length | 143mm / 5⅝ inches |
| Ring Gauge | 46 |
| Wrapper | Colorado |
| Binder | Cuban |
| Filler | Cuban |
| Strength | Mild to Medium |
| Body | Medium |
| Smoking Time | Approximately 45-60 minutes |
| Factory | Cuban |
| Brand Owner | Habanos S.A. |
Brand Heritage
Hoyo de Monterrey, meaning “Valley of Monterrey,” owes its name to the fertile lands of San Juan y Martínez in the heart of the Vuelta Abajo region of Cuba. Founded in 1865 by José Gener y Batet, a Spaniard who had previously worked on his uncle’s tobacco plantations, the brand quickly gained renown for its smooth, aromatic cigars.
Gener’s vision was to create cigars that were both elegant and accessible, appealing to a wide range of palates. He meticulously selected the finest tobacco leaves from his own plantations, ensuring consistent quality and flavor. This dedication to excellence cemented Hoyo de Monterrey’s position as one of Cuba’s premier cigar brands.
Today, Hoyo de Monterrey remains a symbol of Cuban cigar tradition, celebrated for its commitment to craftsmanship and its consistently smooth and flavorful blends. The Epicure No. 1 is a shining example of this legacy, offering a glimpse into the rich history and unwavering dedication that defines the Hoyo de Monterrey name.
Tasting Profile
First Third – The Opening
The initial draws of the Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure No. 1 present a welcoming introduction, dominated by cedar and hay. Earthy undertones provide a grounding base, complemented by subtle hints of nuts. A gentle spice adds a touch of intrigue, while notes of leather begin to emerge, creating a balanced and harmonious start. The overall strength is mild, allowing the flavors to gently unfold on the palate.
Second Third – The Heart
As the cigar progresses into the second third, the complexity deepens. The core flavors of cedar and leather remain prominent, joined by the richness of cocoa. A noticeable increase in pepper adds a pleasant warmth, while notes of herbal tea introduce a subtle dryness. A mineral note emerges on the retrohale, accompanied by a slight charred flavor, adding another layer of sophistication to the experience. Hints of citrus, grain, and spices like white pepper and clove further enhance the evolving flavor profile.
Final Third – The Crescendo
The final third sees the Epicure No. 1 build to a satisfying crescendo. Tobacco, leather, cedar, and earth remain the foundational flavors, with the spice intensifying on both the draw and the finish. Rich coffee flavors join the mix, accompanied by subtle sour fruit notes. As the cigar nears its end, notes of cream, nuts, and hay become more pronounced, providing a smooth and balanced conclusion. The strength increases to a solid medium, providing a satisfying culmination to the smoking experience.
Finish
The finish of the Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure No. 1 is clean and lingering, leaving a pleasant aftertaste of cedar and spice. The subtle sweetness of honey remains on the palate, accompanied by a touch of earthiness. The overall impression is one of balance and sophistication, a testament to the cigar’s well-crafted blend.
Flavor Wheel
| Primary Notes | Cedar, Leather, Earth |
| Secondary Notes | Cocoa, Spice, Hay |
| Tertiary Notes | Nuts, Herbal Tea, Citrus |
| Finish | Cedar, Spice, Honey |
| Aroma | Leather, Hay, Earthy |
Aging and Collector Value
The Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure No. 1, while enjoyable when fresh, possesses the potential to evolve beautifully with age. When properly stored in a humidor maintained at 65-72% relative humidity and 65-70°F, this cigar can develop additional complexity and nuance over time. While individual preferences vary, many aficionados find that 2-5 years of aging allows the flavors to meld and deepen, resulting in a smoother and more refined smoking experience.
With aging, the initial cedar and spice notes may become more pronounced, while the subtle sweetness of honey and vanilla intensifies. The earthy undertones can also become more refined, adding depth and complexity to the overall flavor profile. Collectors often seek out aged boxes of Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure No. 1 for their enhanced flavor and collectability, as these cigars represent a piece of Cuban cigar history and craftsmanship.
Perfect Pairings
| Beverage | Why It Works |
|---|---|
| Creamy Cappuccino | The smooth, milky texture of a cappuccino complements the cigar’s light-to-medium body and enhances its subtle sweetness. |
| Light Lager | A crisp, refreshing lager provides a clean counterpoint to the cigar’s earthy and spicy notes, making it an ideal pairing for a sunny afternoon smoke. |
| Creamy Coffee | The coffee’s rich, bold flavor complements the cigar’s cocoa and coffee notes, creating a harmonious and satisfying pairing. |
| Aged Rum | The sweet spice and vanilla notes of a good aged rum harmonize beautifully with the cigar’s similar flavor profile, creating a decadent and flavorful experience. |
| VSOP Cognac | The woody and earthy characteristics of a VSOP Cognac complement the cigar’s cedar and leather notes, adding depth and complexity to the pairing. |
| Sparkling Water with Lemon | For a non-alcoholic option, the clean, crisp taste of sparkling water with a twist of lemon cleanses the palate between puffs, allowing you to fully appreciate the cigar’s nuances. |
Authenticity Verification
We understand the importance of authenticity when purchasing premium Cuban cigars. We guarantee that all our Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure No. 1 cigars are 100% authentic, sourced directly from Habanos S.A. To ensure your peace of mind, here are some key indicators to look for:
- Habanos Holographic Seal – This seal is affixed to the box and features a unique holographic design that is difficult to replicate. It’s a primary indicator of authenticity.
- Box Code Verification – Each box of authentic Cuban cigars is stamped with a unique factory code. This code can be verified through the Habanos S.A. website or through authorized retailers.
- Factory Stamp – Authentic Cuban cigars are stamped with the factory code and date of production. This stamp provides valuable information about the cigar’s origin and production timeline.
- Triple Cap – Cuban cigars are known for their meticulous construction, including a triple cap at the head of the cigar. This intricate detail is a hallmark of genuine Cuban craftsmanship.
Our Guarantee: If any cigar fails Habanos verification, we provide a full refund. Trusted by collectors since 2015.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the ideal humidity level for storing Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure No. 1 cigars?
The ideal humidity level for storing your Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure No. 1 cigars is between 65% and 72%. Maintaining this humidity range will help to preserve the cigar’s flavors and prevent it from drying out or becoming moldy.
How long can I expect the Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure No. 1 to last in my humidor?
When properly stored in a humidor, your Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure No. 1 cigars can last for several years. The key is to maintain a consistent humidity level and temperature to prevent the cigars from deteriorating.
Is the Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure No. 1 a good cigar for beginners?
While the Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure No. 1 offers a complex and nuanced flavor profile, its mild-to-medium body makes it a relatively approachable cigar for beginners. However, those new to cigar smoking may want to start with a smaller vitola or a milder blend before trying the Epicure No. 1.
What is the difference between the Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure No. 1 and the Epicure No. 2?
The main difference between the Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure No. 1 and the Epicure No. 2 is the vitola. The Epicure No. 1 is a Corona Gorda (5 ⅝ inches long with a 46 ring gauge), while the Epicure No. 2 is a Robusto (4 ⅞ inches long with a 50 ring gauge). Both cigars offer a similar flavor profile, but the different vitolas provide slightly different smoking experiences.
