Description
The Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure Especial stands as a monumental achievement in the world of Habanos, representing the pinnacle of the refined, aromatic style for which this historic brand is celebrated. Introduced as a regular production cigar in 2008 following the overwhelming success of its 2004 Edición Limitada predecessor, the Epicure Especial is a Robusto Extra (factory name: Gordito) that offers a sophisticated extension to the legendary Epicure line. This cigar is meticulously crafted for the discerning aficionado who demands the elegance of a medium-bodied profile without sacrificing complexity or duration. With its 141mm length and 50 ring gauge, it provides an expansive canvas for a flavor journey defined by creamy cocoa, toasted nuts, aged cedar, and subtle floral sweetness. Whether enjoyed as a daily luxury or reserved for moments of quiet contemplation, the Epicure Especial remains one of the most balanced and approachable masterpieces ever to emerge from the Vuelta Abajo region of Cuba.
Box Features and Packaging Options
| Feature | Box of 25 | Box of 10 |
|---|---|---|
| Cigars per Box | 25 Hand-Rolled Habanos | 10 Hand-Rolled Habanos |
| Packaging Type | Slide Lid Box (SLB) / Cabinet | Semi Boîte Nature (SBN) |
| Ideal For | Long-term aging and daily rotation | Sampling or gifting to connoisseurs |
| Humidity Protection | Cedar-lined for optimal maturation | Compact storage for humidor efficiency |
Cigar Specifications
| Vitola | Robusto Extra / Gordito |
| Length | 141 mm (5.6 inches) |
| Ring Gauge | 50 |
| Wrapper | Cuban Colorado (Reddish-Tan) |
| Binder | Cuba (Vuelta Abajo) |
| Filler | Cuba (Vuelta Abajo) |
| Strength | Medium |
| Body | Light-Medium to Medium |
| Smoking Time | 80-90 Minutes |
| Factory | Hoyo de Monterrey, Havana, Cuba |
| Brand Owner | Habanos S.A. |
Brand Heritage
The story of Hoyo de Monterrey is inextricably linked to the fertile soils of the Vuelta Abajo, the premier tobacco-growing region in the world. Founded in 1865 by José Gener, a Spanish immigrant who arrived in Cuba at the age of thirteen, the brand takes its name from the “Hole of Monterrey,” a particularly low-lying and fertile plantation located in the heart of San Juan y Martínez. This unique microclimate, characterized by its nutrient-rich earth and ideal humidity, allows for the cultivation of tobacco leaves that are notably softer, more aromatic, and less aggressive than those found in other parts of the island.
For over 150 years, Hoyo de Monterrey has built a reputation as the “elegant” choice among Cuban heritage brands. While Bolivar is known for its power and Partagás for its earthy spice, Hoyo de Monterrey focuses on nuance, aroma, and a light-to-medium strength profile that appeals to both novices and seasoned veterans. The Epicure line, specifically the Epicure No. 1 and No. 2, became global icons in the 20th century. The Epicure Especial was born from a desire to modernize this classic lineage, providing a larger “Gordito” vitola that caters to the contemporary preference for longer smoking times and thicker ring gauges, all while maintaining the brand’s signature floral and woody DNA.
Today, the Hoyo de Monterrey factory continues to employ the most skilled torcedores (rollers) to ensure that every Epicure Especial meets the rigorous standards of Habanos S.A. The brand remains a symbol of Cuban luxury, favored by those who appreciate the finer, more delicate complexities of premium tobacco. Its legacy is not just one of longevity, but of consistent excellence, making it a cornerstone of any serious cigar collection.
Tasting Profile
First Third – The Opening
Upon ignition, the Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure Especial greets the palate with a sophisticated and gentle introduction. The initial draws are characterized by a bright, woody tobacco core, immediately accompanied by a distinct cedar aroma that is both crisp and inviting. Unlike bolder Cubans that may start with a pepper blast, the Especial offers a mild spicy nuance, more akin to white pepper or cinnamon, which tickles the back of the throat without overwhelming the senses. As the burn progresses through the first inch, notes of toasted nuts and graham cracker begin to emerge, providing a creamy texture to the smoke. The draw is typically effortless, producing voluminous clouds of aromatic, pale white smoke that carry a subtle floral undertone, a hallmark of the Gener legacy.
Second Third – The Heart
As the cigar enters its second act, the complexity deepens significantly. The body transitions firmly into the medium range, and the flavors become more integrated and lush. The dominant woody notes evolve into a richer earthiness, while a delightful cocoa powder sweetness begins to take center stage. This is the “sweet spot” of the Epicure Especial, where the interplay between roasted coffee beans and creamy vanilla creates a decadent mouthfeel. The 50 ring gauge allows the smoke to remain cool, preserving the delicate citrus and floral notes that dance in the background. It is during this phase that the cigar’s balance is most evident; no single note dominates, but rather they harmonize to create a profile that is both elegant and profoundly satisfying.
Final Third – The Crescendo
In the final third, the Epicure Especial maintains its poise, refusing to become harsh or overly hot. The strength increases slightly, bringing a more pronounced leather and dark chocolate character to the forefront. The sweetness of the earlier thirds transforms into a rich molasses or dark honey, providing a heavy, lingering finish. The woody tobacco remains the backbone of the experience, but it is now joined by a more robust earthy spice. Even as the cigar burns down to the nub, the flavors remain clean and well-defined, showcasing the quality of the aged long-filler tobacco. The evolution is gradual and masterful, ensuring that the final 20 minutes are just as engaging as the first.
Finish
The finish of the Epicure Especial is exceptionally clean, leaving a lingering aftertaste of cream, cedar, and light espresso. It does not coat the palate with heavy oils, making it an ideal choice for those who enjoy multiple cigars in a day or wish to pair it with a delicate beverage. The 94-point rating often associated with this vitola is a testament to this long, refined finish that invites the smoker to reflect on the complexity of the journey just completed.
Flavor Wheel
| Primary Notes | Aged Cedar, Spanish Oak, Raw Tobacco |
| Secondary Notes | Cocoa Powder, Roasted Coffee, Graham Cracker |
| Tertiary Notes | Dried Flowers, White Pepper, Vanilla Cream |
| Finish | Clean, Creamy Earth, Lingering Nutty Sweetness |
| Aroma | Floral, Toasted Wood, Sweet Spice |
Aging and Collector Value
The Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure Especial is widely regarded by collectors as a cigar that possesses extraordinary aging potential. While it is “smoking beautifully” right off the shelf due to the high quality of the base tobacco, time in a temperature-controlled humidor allows its various elements to meld into a seamless tapestry of flavor. During the first 2 to 3 years of aging, the initial spicy nuances tend to mellow, giving way to a more pronounced creaminess and increased floral complexity. The oils within the Colorado wrapper continue to mature, often developing a slight sheen that signals a peak smoking window.
For the long-term collector, the Epicure Especial reaches its zenith between 5 and 8 years. In this stage, the cedar and earth notes deepen, and the cocoa characteristics can take on a more “vintage” chocolate truffle quality. Because this is a regular production cigar that performs with the consistency of a Limited Edition, it offers exceptional value for money for those looking to build a vertical collection. We recommend storing these in their original cedar Slide Lid Boxes (SLB) at a steady 65-68% relative humidity and 65-70°F. This environment ensures the tobacco ferments slowly, preserving the delicate aromatics that define the Hoyo de Monterrey brand. Whether you are a “box-press” enthusiast or a fan of the round, traditional Gordito shape, the Especial is a blue-chip investment for any Cuban humidor.
Perfect Pairings
| Beverage | Why It Works |
|---|---|
| Cappuccino or Latte | The milk fats and espresso enhance the cigar’s natural cocoa and cream notes. |
| Aged Cuban Rum (7+ Years) | The molasses sweetness of the rum perfectly complements the woody tobacco profile. |
| Speyside Single Malt Scotch | Lighter, honeyed malts match the floral and citrus undertones without overpowering. |
| Vintage Champagne | The effervescence cleanses the palate, highlighting the cigar’s refined elegance. |
| Cognac (VSOP or XO) | The grape-based sweetness and oak aging mirror the cedar and fruit notes of the Habano. |
| Iced White Tea | A non-alcoholic option that respects the delicate floral aromatics of the blend. |
Authenticity Verification
In the world of luxury Cuban cigars, authenticity is paramount. We ensure that every box of Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure Especial we provide is 100% genuine, sourced directly through official Habanos S.A. channels. You can verify the pedigree of your purchase through several key indicators:
- Habanos Holographic Seal – Located on the top right of the box, this seal features a high-tech hologram that is virtually impossible to forge, ensuring the box has passed through official Cuban customs.
- Box Code Verification – Each box features a unique barcode on the warranty seal. You can enter this code directly into the official Habanos website to confirm the factory of origin and date of production.
- Factory Stamp – The bottom of the box is hot-stamped with “Totalmente a Mano” (Totally by Hand) and “Tripa Larga” (Long Filler), along with the specific factory code and date.
- Triple Cap – The Epicure Especial features the traditional Cuban triple cap, a sign of expert craftsmanship that ensures a clean cut and structural integrity during the smoke.
Our Guarantee: If any cigar fails Habanos verification or does not meet our stringent quality control standards, we provide a full refund. Trusted by collectors since 2015, we pride ourselves on delivering only the finest, authenticated Cuban tobacco.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between the Hoyo Epicure No. 2 and the Epicure Especial?
While both cigars share the same 50 ring gauge and belong to the same flavor family, the Epicure Especial is longer (141mm vs 124mm). This “Robusto Extra” vitola allows for a longer smoking time (80-90 minutes) and a more complex flavor evolution. The Especial often feels slightly more “refined” and creamy, whereas the No. 2 is known for its punchy, straightforward cedar and spice profile.
Is the Epicure Especial suitable for a beginner?
Absolutely. Because of its medium-bodied strength and lack of aggressive spice, it is one of the best “gateway” cigars into the world of premium Cubans. It provides all the complexity of a high-end Habano without the nicotine strength that can sometimes overwhelm newer smokers. Its approachable nature makes it a favorite for those transitioning from New World cigars to Cuban tobacco.
How long should I smoke an Epicure Especial?
To fully appreciate the nuances of this Gordito vitola, you should set aside 80 to 90 minutes. Smoking it too quickly will cause the tobacco to overheat, which can lead to bitterness and mask the delicate floral and cocoa notes. This is a cigar designed for unhurried luxury—take a puff every 60 seconds to maintain the ideal temperature.
Do the aluminum tubes (Tubos) affect the flavor?
The cigars inside the tubes are identical in blend and quality to those in the cedar boxes. However, Tubos are excellent for portability and offer extra protection against physical damage or short-term humidity fluctuations. For long-term aging (5+ years), many collectors prefer the Slide Lid Boxes (SLB) as the direct contact with cedar can enhance the maturation process, though the tubes are perfectly fine if stored in a humidor with the caps slightly loosened.
