Description
There’s something almost ceremonial about sliding that cedar box open for the first time. The soft whisper of wood against wood, the gentle resistance of the gold ribbon, and then—there it is. The unmistakable silhouette of a perfectly crafted robusto, its colorado wrapper catching the light like burnished copper. I can still recall the weight of that first Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure No. 2 in my fingers, substantial yet elegant, the wrapper leaf so smooth it felt almost velvety to the touch.
That particular evening, I’d been looking forward to this smoke all week. The anticipation had been building since I’d heard the reviews from fellow enthusiasts who consistently ranked this among their top three Cuban cigars. As I lifted it from the box, the pre-light aroma hit me immediately—fresh cedar mingling with something floral and sweet, earthy undertones promising complexity ahead.
What struck me most wasn’t just the visual appeal, though the tasteful double band certainly adds to the presentation. It was that perfect balance of firmness and give when I rolled it between my fingers. This wasn’t just another cigar; this was craftsmanship from Cuba’s legendary Vuelta Abajo region, and you could feel the quality in every gram.
Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Length | 124mm (4.9 inches) |
| Ring Gauge | 50 (19.84mm diameter) |
| Vitola | Robustos |
| Strength | Light to Medium |
| Smoking Time | Approximately 90 minutes |
| Weight | 11.66 grams |
Construction and Appearance
The first thing that catches your eye is that gorgeous colorado wrapper leaf. It’s not just the color—though that rich, reddish-brown hue is certainly appealing—it’s the texture. Running your fingers along the surface reveals a velvety smooth wrapper that speaks to careful selection and expert handling. The leaf has minimal veins, and what few are visible seem to follow the natural contours of the cigar perfectly.
Construction-wise, this is where Cuban craftsmanship really shines. The Epicure No. 2 feels substantial in hand, measuring exactly what it should at 124mm with that classic 50 ring gauge that defines the robustos vitola. There’s no soft spots, no hard areas—just consistent, firm construction from head to foot. The seams are virtually invisible, wrapped with the kind of precision that only comes from years of experience.
What really sets this apart is the dual banding system. The standard Hoyo band sits proudly near the head, but it’s adorned with that special Epicure No. 2 second band that was added back in 2008. It’s not just decoration—it’s a mark of authenticity and quality that immediately identifies this as something special. When you’re holding one, you know you’ve got a nice robusto with serious pedigree.
Flavor Profile Journey
First Third: A Floral Opening
The initial draw starts with something unexpected—a delicate floral bouquet that immediately distinguishes this from earthier Cuban offerings. There’s gingerbread sweetness right off the bat, complemented by fresh cedar notes that seem to dance on your palate. The tobacco itself is bold but not overwhelming, with cocoa and vanilla undertones that create this incredibly creamy foundation.
What surprised me most was how quickly the cinnamon notes appeared. Not harsh or spicy, but warm and inviting, like the kind you’d find in a quality dessert. The earthiness is there too, but it’s light and sophisticated, more like rich soil after spring rain than anything heavy or muddy. The strength builds gradually from mild to medium, but it’s so smooth you barely notice the transition.
Middle Third: Sweet Complexity
This is where the Monterrey Epicure really starts to show its complex flavors. Those sweet woody notes from the opening intensify, but they’re joined by deeper floral elements that add layers of sophistication. The creaminess persists—honestly, it’s one of the most consistent aspects throughout the entire smoke—but now it’s balanced by light complex earthiness that keeps things interesting.
The cedar becomes more pronounced here, shifting from that fresh, bright character to something richer and more mature. It’s still sweet, but there’s depth now. The body transitions fully to medium at this point, though it never becomes overwhelming. Even beginners will find this approachable, though the complexity might surprise them.
Final Third: Elegant Intensity
The final third brings everything together in what I can only describe as a sweet woody finish that’s both smooth and fairly intense. The earthiness becomes more prominent without dominating, and there’s a subtle spice that adds just enough kick to keep you engaged. What’s remarkable is how all these flavors integrate—nothing feels disconnected or harsh.
For novice smokers, this section might feel stronger than expected, but that’s more about the concentration of flavors than actual nicotine strength. The complexity can be almost overwhelming in the best possible way. Those cream, cedar, cocoa, and vanilla notes that define user experiences with this cigar all come together in a finale that justifies every bit of anticipation.
Perfect Pairings
Given the Epicure No. 2’s floral and woody profile with those prominent cream and vanilla notes, I’ve found it pairs exceptionally well with lighter spirits and complementary beverages. A quality aged rum, particularly something from the Caribbean with natural sweetness, creates an almost perfect harmony with the cigar’s inherent complexity.
For whiskey lovers, I’d recommend a smooth bourbon with honey notes rather than anything too peated or aggressive. The vanilla and cocoa characteristics in the cigar complement similar flavors in the whiskey without competing. Coffee pairings work beautifully too—a medium roast with chocolate undertones enhances those cocoa notes without overwhelming the more delicate floral elements.
Wine enthusiasts should consider a light to medium-bodied red, perhaps a Spanish Tempranillo or a softer Merlot. The tannins won’t fight with the cigar’s creaminess, and the fruit notes can actually highlight some of the more subtle sweet elements. Honestly though, sometimes the best pairing is just fresh air during an outdoor stroll—this cigar has enough complexity to stand entirely on its own.
Who Should Smoke This
The Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure No. 2 occupies a sweet spot that makes it accessible to a wide range of enthusiasts. For beginners, it offers complexity without intimidation. The light to medium strength means you won’t get overwhelmed, but there’s enough going on flavor-wise to keep things interesting and educational.
Experienced smokers will appreciate the nuanced progression and the way different flavor elements emerge and interact throughout the smoke. It’s sophisticated enough for special occasions but approachable enough for regular enjoyment. I’ve found it works equally well as an afternoon smoke or an evening finale.
This is particularly well-suited for social smoking situations. The 90-minute smoking time gives you plenty of opportunity for conversation, and the pleasant aroma won’t offend nearby company. It’s also an excellent choice for those transitioning from milder cigars to more complex Cuban offerings—it bridges that gap beautifully without shocking your palate.
Cutting and Lighting Technique
With the Epicure No. 2’s excellent construction, a straight cut works perfectly. I prefer to cut just above the cap line, removing enough to ensure a clean draw without cutting too deep into the body. The pre-draw should be effortless—if you’re getting resistance, you might need to take a bit more off the top.
For lighting, take your time. The quality of construction means it will light evenly if you’re patient. I like to toast the foot slowly with a butane lighter, rotating the cigar to ensure even heat distribution. You’ll know you’re ready when you see that characteristic orange glow around the entire circumference.
Once lit, give it a few gentle draws to establish the burn. The Epicure No. 2 typically burns very evenly, but if you notice any issues early on, address them immediately. This cigar rewards careful attention to technique with a flawless smoking experience. For more detailed guidance, check out this comprehensive guide on mastering Cuban cigar smoking techniques.
Storage and Aging
Like all premium Cuban cigars, the Epicure No. 2 requires proper storage to maintain its character. I keep mine at exactly 70% relative humidity and 70°F temperature—the classic 70/70 rule that works perfectly for this blend. Any significant deviation from these numbers will affect the smoking experience, particularly those delicate floral and cream notes that make this cigar special.
The cedar-lined slide-lid boxes they come in are actually functional, not just presentation pieces. If you’re storing the original box in your humidor, that cedar helps regulate moisture while adding to the overall aroma profile. For individual storage, cedar sleeves work well to maintain that fresh cedar character you notice pre-light.
Aging potential is excellent. I’ve smoked Epicure No. 2s with several years on them, and the complexity only improves with time. The floral notes become more integrated, the creaminess deepens, and those woody elements develop incredible depth. If you can resist the temptation, setting a box aside for a few years will reward you with an even more sophisticated smoking experience. For more specific techniques on preservation, this article on proven cigar preservation methods offers valuable insights.
Authenticity and What to Look For
Given the popularity of the Epicure No. 2, fakes are unfortunately common. The genuine article has several distinctive features that are difficult to replicate. First, check the banding carefully. Authentic cigars feature both the standard Hoyo band and the special Epicure No. 2 secondary band that was added in 2008. Pre-2005 versions had no bands at all, so be suspicious of anything claiming to be vintage without documentation.
Construction quality is your next indicator. Real Epicure No. 2s have that consistently firm feel with no soft spots or overly hard areas. The wrapper should be smooth and oily, not dry or cracked. Dimensions should be exact—124mm length with a 50 ring gauge. Fakes often get the proportions wrong.
Packaging matters too. Genuine boxes feature that cedar slide-lid construction with gold ribbon and proper Habanos branding. The cigars should be arranged consistently, and there should be no spelling errors or design inconsistencies on the box or bands. Most importantly, purchase from trusted sources that can provide authenticity guarantees. Since 2004, authorized Habanos merchants have been the most reliable way to ensure you’re getting the genuine article.
The pre-light aroma is also telling. Authentic Epicure No. 2s have that distinctive combination of cedar, floral notes, and earthy undertones. Fakes often smell flat or have an artificial quality that’s immediately noticeable to experienced smokers.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the Epicure No. 2 compare to other Hoyo de Monterrey cigars?
The Epicure No. 2 is generally considered the flagship of the Hoyo line, offering more complexity and body than the classic Hoyo varieties. While traditional Hoyo cigars tend to be milder and more straightforward, the Epicure No. 2 brings that signature floral character with added depth and creaminess. It’s definitely a step up in sophistication while maintaining the brand’s approachable nature.
Is this a good cigar for beginners?
Absolutely. The light to medium strength makes it very approachable for new smokers, but there’s enough complexity to keep things interesting. The smooth, creamy character won’t overwhelm a developing palate, and the excellent construction means you’re unlikely to have technical issues that can frustrate beginners. It’s actually an ideal learning cigar.
What’s the best time of day to smoke an Epicure No. 2?
The 90-minute smoking time and medium body make this versatile for different occasions. I particularly enjoy them in late afternoon or early evening. The floral and creamy notes work well after a meal without being too heavy, but it’s also sophisticated enough for special evening occasions. The complexity rewards your full attention, so choose a time when you can really focus on the experience.
How long can I age these cigars?
Epicure No. 2s age beautifully for decades if stored properly. I’ve had excellent experiences with cigars aged 5-10 years, where the flavors become more integrated and sophisticated. The key is maintaining that 70% humidity and 70°F temperature consistently. Some enthusiasts report great results even after 15-20 years, though the floral notes may become more subtle with extended aging.
Are there any similar cigars you’d recommend?
If you enjoy the Epicure No. 2’s profile, you might also appreciate the Montecristo No. 2 for similar complexity in a different wrapper, or the Romeo y Julieta Churchill for comparable sophistication with a bit more strength. For something in the same family, the Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure Especial offers similar characteristics in a different vitola. Each has its own personality, but they share that refined Cuban complexity that makes the Epicure No. 2 so appealing.
To learn more about the rich history and craftsmanship behind cigars like the Epicure No. 2, explore this fascinating journey from plantation to perfection that explains what makes Cuban tobacco so special. The dedication to quality from the legendary Vuelta Abajo region is evident in every draw of this exceptional cigar.
