Description
The terrace overlooked the harbor, where the last fishing boats were making their way back as golden hour settled over the water. I’d been looking forward to this moment all week – a rare evening with nowhere to be, nothing demanding my attention except the conversation with an old friend and the anticipation of something truly special waiting in my humidor. The Hoyo de Monterrey Serie Le Hoyo had been calling my name since I’d picked it up from the shop, its hefty ring gauge promising a substantial session ahead.
There’s something deeply satisfying about selecting a Cuban cigar that demands your time and attention. This particular vitola from the Le Hoyo series carries itself with quiet confidence – not the flashiest smoke in my collection, but one that I’ve learned delivers consistent satisfaction when you’re in the mood for something medium-bodied with real character.
Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Length | 150mm (5 7/8 inches) |
| Ring Gauge | 54 (21.43mm diameter) |
| Vitola | Geniales |
| Strength | Medium to Full-bodied |
| Smoking Time | 70-100+ minutes |
| Origin | Cuba |
| Status | Current Production (Released 2014) |
Construction and Appearance
The construction of this heavy ring gauge cigar immediately catches your attention. The wrapper has that characteristic Cuban sheen – not quite maduro dark, but rich enough to hint at the complexity waiting inside. I’ve noticed the three-seam cap is expertly applied, showing the kind of attention to detail you expect from Cuban cigars crafted from plantation to perfection.
What strikes me most about the Serie Le Hoyo is its substantial feel in hand. This isn’t a delicate morning smoke. The band carries the traditional Hoyo de Monterrey design elements, and the overall presentation speaks to serious tobacco craftsmanship. The wrapper feels smooth to the touch, with minimal veins and an even color distribution that suggests proper fermentation and aging.
The pre-light aroma offers hints of what’s coming – earthy undertones with just a touch of sweetness that makes your mouth water in anticipation.
Flavor Profile
First Third
The opening draws are where this cigar announces its intentions. You’re immediately greeted with thick, dark, oily smoke that coats the palate beautifully. The initial flavors lean heavily into cedar notes, but there’s something more complex happening underneath – hints of sweet oaky rum barrel qualities that remind me why I fell in love with Cuban cigars in the first place.
The aromatic smoke carries floral undertones that balance nicely against the earthier elements. It’s clear from these first few puffs that this isn’t going to be a one-dimensional experience. The creamy texture starts developing early, setting the stage for what’s to come.
Second Third
This is where the Serie Le Hoyo really finds its stride. The wood and cream flavours become more pronounced, creating this luxurious mouthfeel that makes you want to slow down and savor every draw. I’ve found that rushing through this section robs you of the cigar’s best qualities – it really demands patience to show you what it’s capable of.
Leather notes start emerging during this phase, adding depth and sophistication to the overall profile. The aromatic flavor becomes more concentrated, and you can taste the quality of the tobacco leaf selection. There’s a natural sweetness that develops, probably from the careful fermentation process these cigars undergo.
Final Third
The conclusion brings some interesting developments. That burnt charcoal finish I mentioned earlier becomes more apparent, but it’s not harsh or unpleasant – it adds character and complexity. The woody taste intensifies, and there’s often a hint of liquorice that appears in the final draws.
What I appreciate about this cigar’s finish is that it doesn’t fall apart or become bitter like some heavy ring gauge cigars can. The construction holds firm, and the flavors remain balanced right to the nub. It’s the kind of ending that leaves you satisfied but already thinking about when you’ll enjoy another.
Drink Pairings
I’ve experimented with various pairings for the Serie Le Hoyo, and honestly, the timing matters as much as the beverage choice. For morning sessions, I’ll often reach for a strong espresso – the coffee’s boldness complements the cigar’s earthier notes beautifully, creating this sophisticated breakfast ritual that feels wonderfully indulgent.
Evening pairings call for something different entirely. A sweet dessert wine, particularly a good Port or Madeira, brings out those rum barrel qualities I mentioned earlier. The wine’s sweetness plays against the tobacco’s natural characteristics in a way that enhances both.
For spirits enthusiasts, I’d recommend a quality aged rum – something like Diplomatico Reserva Exclusiva or even a good Cuban rum if you can find it. The woody, oaky notes in both the cigar and rum create this harmonious experience that feels authentically Cuban. A peated Scotch whisky works surprisingly well too, though that’s more about contrast than complement.
Who This Cigar Is For
The Serie Le Hoyo isn’t for everyone, and that’s perfectly fine. This is a cigar for someone who appreciates the nuanced complexity that comes with proper Cuban tobacco craftsmanship. If you’re new to cigars, you might want to work your way up to this one – it’s not intimidatingly strong, but it does demand your attention and time.
I’d particularly recommend this to experienced smokers who enjoy the Hoyo series but want something with more presence than some of the lighter offerings. It’s perfect for those long evening conversations, special occasions, or when you simply want to treat yourself to something substantial.
Business professionals who enjoy cigars will find this fits well into that after-dinner category – sophisticated enough for client entertainment, complex enough to hold interest during lengthy discussions. It’s also ideal for anyone building a serious humidor collection, as these cigars age beautifully over time.
Cutting and Lighting
With a 54 ring gauge, you have some flexibility in your cutting approach, but I prefer a straight cut positioned just above the cap line. The substantial diameter means you can afford to be generous with your cut without compromising the structure. A sharp cutter is essential – don’t try to muscle through this with a dull blade, as you’ll risk damaging that expertly applied three-seam cap.
For lighting, take your time. This heavy ring gauge cigar needs even heat distribution to perform at its best. I use a butane torch in a circular motion, keeping the flame just close enough to char the foot without directly touching it. Mastering the lighting technique is crucial for cigars of this caliber.
The initial draws should come easily – if you’re having to work too hard, your cut might be too conservative. The beauty of a well-constructed Cuban cigar is that once properly lit, it should burn evenly with minimal maintenance. Just remember to smoke slowly to fully appreciate the complexity these cigars offer.
Storage and Aging
Proper storage is absolutely critical for Cuban cigars, and the Serie Le Hoyo is no exception. I keep mine at 65-68% humidity and around 65-68°F, which seems to maintain their optimal smoking condition. Too much humidity and you’ll get draw issues; too little and they’ll burn hot and lose their complexity.
These cigars have excellent aging potential. I’ve smoked fresh boxes and others that have been resting for 2-3 years, and the difference is remarkable. The wood and cream flavours become more integrated over time, and that sometimes sharp edge you might detect in younger cigars mellows into something truly special.
For long-term storage, using proven preservation techniques will ensure your investment remains in peak condition. I’d recommend buying a box and setting aside at least half for aging – you’ll thank yourself later when you taste how beautifully these develop.
A quality humidor setup is essential. If you’re serious about Cuban cigars, investing in proper humidor setup will pay dividends in the long run. The Serie Le Hoyo deserves proper care, and the packaging in a standard box of 10 makes it easy to track your aging progress.
Authenticity and What to Look For
Unfortunately, the popularity of Cuban cigars means counterfeits are a real concern. With Serie Le Hoyo, there are several key indicators to help you identify authentic cigars. The standard band should have crisp, clear printing with no smudging or misaligned text. The colors should be vibrant, and the band should feel substantial, not flimsy like many fakes.
The packaging is another critical checkpoint. Authentic boxes come with proper Habanos seals, date codes, and serial numbers. The bands should be consistently applied, and the cigars themselves should show uniform construction quality. If you’re seeing significant variations in size, color, or band placement within the same box, that’s a red flag.
Your best protection is buying from reputable sources. Working with established dealers who understand Cuban cigar authentication can save you from costly mistakes. LCDH (La Casa del Habano) shops are typically reliable, though they’re not available everywhere.
The tobacco itself should have that distinctive Cuban aroma and feel. Fake cigars often use inferior tobacco that feels dry or artificial. Trust your instincts – if something seems off about the price, packaging, or the cigars themselves, it’s better to pass and find another source.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does Serie Le Hoyo compare to other Hoyo de Monterrey offerings?
The Serie Le Hoyo sits in the medium to full-bodied range, making it stronger than classics like the Epicure No. 2 but not as intense as some of the brand’s premium releases. It’s got more presence than the delightfully light-bodied options in the regular Hoyo lineup, but maintains that characteristic smoothness the brand is known for. If you enjoy other cigars in the Le Hoyo series, this one should fit right into your preferences.
Is this cigar worth the premium price over non-Cuban alternatives?
In my experience, yes, but with caveats. The complexity and construction quality you get from authentic Cuban tobacco, particularly from the renowned Vuelta Abajo region, is difficult to replicate. However, you’re paying for authenticity, terroir, and craftsmanship – if those factors aren’t important to you, there are excellent non-Cuban alternatives at lower prices. For collectors and Cuban cigar enthusiasts, the Serie Le Hoyo justifies its cost.
How long should I age these cigars before smoking?
While they’re perfectly enjoyable fresh, I’ve found that 6-12 months of proper storage really allows the flavors to integrate and smooth out. If you can be patient enough to wait 2-3 years, you’ll be rewarded with even greater complexity. That said, don’t feel you have to age them – I’ve enjoyed many straight from a fresh box, and they’re excellent cigars regardless of age.
What’s the best time of day to smoke a Serie Le Hoyo?
Given the 70-100+ minute smoking time and medium to full-bodied strength, these work best as evening cigars or weekend afternoon smokes when you have time to properly appreciate them. The substantial ring gauge and complex flavor profile make this more of a destination smoke than a quick break cigar. I rarely reach for one in the morning unless I have several hours free and am pairing it with strong coffee.
Are these cigars still in production or have they been discontinued?
The Serie Le Hoyo remains in current production as of this writing, having been released in 2014 and continuing to be available through authorized Cuban cigar dealers. However, Cuban cigar production can be unpredictable, and availability may vary by region and season. The status can change, so if you find authentic boxes at good prices, it’s worth considering stocking up for your humidor.
