Description
Indulge in the sophisticated allure of the **Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure Especial**, a distinguished Robusto Extra that embodies Cuban elegance. This meticulously crafted cigar offers a refined, medium-bodied experience, celebrated for its exceptional balance and nuanced complexity. A harmonious blend of woody and tobacco notes, accented by hints of coffee, earth, and cocoa, makes this a truly exceptional smoke. Perfect for the discerning aficionado seeking a luxurious, everyday indulgence.
Box Features and Packaging Options
| Feature | Box of 25 | Box of 10 |
|---|---|---|
| Cigars per Box | 25 | 10 |
| Packaging Type | SLB (Slide Lid Box) | SLB (Slide Lid Box) |
| Ideal For | Sharing, Aging, Regular Enjoyment | Sampling, Gifting, Occasional Indulgence |
| Humidity Protection | Excellent (Cedar Lining) | Excellent (Cedar Lining) |
Cigar Specifications
| Vitola | Robusto Extra / Gordito |
| Length | 141 mm (5.6″ / 5½”) |
| Ring Gauge | 50 |
| Wrapper | Cuban Colorado |
| Binder | Cuban |
| Filler | Cuban |
| Strength | Medium |
| Body | Medium |
| Smoking Time | 80-90 minutes |
| Factory | Hoyo de Monterrey |
| Brand Owner | Habanos S.A. |
Brand Heritage
Hoyo de Monterrey, a name synonymous with Cuban cigar excellence, traces its roots back to 1865. Founded in the heart of the Vuelta Abajo region, the brand pays homage to the legendary Hoyo de Monterrey estate, a land renowned for its fertile soil and ideal microclimate. This unique terroir yields tobaccos that are characterized by their milder, more aromatic profile, a signature trait that defines the Hoyo de Monterrey experience.
From its inception, Hoyo de Monterrey has been dedicated to crafting cigars that embody elegance and refinement. The brand’s commitment to quality and consistency has earned it a devoted following among cigar aficionados worldwide. The Epicure line, in particular, stands as a testament to Hoyo de Monterrey’s mastery, offering a range of vitolas that showcase the brand’s signature balance and complexity.
The Epicure Especial, a proud addition to this esteemed lineage, builds upon the success of the Epicure No. 2, offering a slightly longer and more substantial smoking experience. Launched at the 2008 Festival del Habano, the Epicure Especial quickly garnered acclaim for its exceptional flavor profile and approachable character, solidifying its place as a cornerstone of the Hoyo de Monterrey portfolio and a favorite among those who appreciate a medium-bodied Cuban cigar.
Tasting Profile
First Third – The Opening
The initial draw of the Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure Especial delivers a welcoming introduction of woody tobacco notes, complemented by a subtle sweetness that teases the palate. The smoke is smooth and approachable, setting the stage for the complexities to come. Hints of spice linger in the background, adding a touch of intrigue to the opening act.
Second Third – The Heart
As the cigar progresses into its second third, the flavor profile deepens and evolves. Notes of rich coffee and earthy undertones emerge, adding a layer of depth and complexity. The sweetness from the first third remains present, now joined by subtle hints of cocoa powder and graham cracker, creating a harmonious blend of flavors that dance on the palate.
Final Third – The Crescendo
In the final third, the Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure Especial maintains its balanced character, offering a sustained richness without becoming overpowering. The woody tobacco notes remain prominent, now accompanied by a creamy earthiness that adds to the overall satisfaction. While the flavor variations may be less pronounced in this final stage, the cigar continues to deliver a rewarding and enjoyable smoking experience.
Finish
The finish of the Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure Especial is clean and lingering, leaving a pleasant aftertaste of woody tobacco and creamy earthiness on the palate. The cigar’s balanced profile ensures a smooth and satisfying conclusion, making it a truly memorable smoke.
Flavor Wheel
| Primary Notes | Wood, Tobacco |
| Secondary Notes | Coffee, Earth, Cocoa |
| Tertiary Notes | Graham Cracker, Nuts, Subtle Spice |
| Finish | Clean, Woody-Tobacco, Creamy Earth |
| Aroma | Wood, Nuts, Spice |
Aging and Collector Value
The Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure Especial possesses excellent aging potential, transforming from its approachable character to a profoundly complex and nuanced smoke over time. As the years pass, the cigar develops deeper notes of cocoa, earth, and creaminess, resulting in a richer and more satisfying experience. Many aficionados consider aged Epicure Especial cigars to surpass even the 2004 Limited Edition in terms of flavor and complexity.
For optimal aging, store your Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure Especial cigars in a cedar-lined humidor at a consistent humidity level of 65-72% and a temperature of 65-70°F. The cedar lining helps to maintain the cigar’s flavor and aroma, while the controlled environment prevents it from drying out or becoming too moist. Aluminum tubes can provide short-term protection, but for long-term aging, a properly maintained humidor is essential.
With 2-5+ years of aging, the Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure Especial will reach its peak, delivering a symphony of flavors that will delight even the most discerning palate. Whether you choose to enjoy them now or cellar them for future enjoyment, these cigars are a valuable addition to any collector’s humidor.
Perfect Pairings
| Beverage | Why It Works |
|---|---|
| Coffee | The earthy and cocoa notes in the cigar are beautifully amplified by the rich, roasted flavors of coffee. A classic pairing that enhances the overall smoking experience. |
| Aged Rum | The sweetness and spice of aged rum complement the cigar’s subtle sweetness and woody notes, creating a harmonious and indulgent pairing. |
| Cognac | The complex flavors of cognac, with its hints of fruit, spice, and oak, pair perfectly with the cigar’s nuanced profile, adding depth and sophistication to the experience. |
| Medium-Bodied Whiskey | A well-balanced whiskey with notes of caramel, vanilla, and spice complements the cigar’s woody and tobacco flavors, creating a satisfying and complementary pairing. |
| Dark Chocolate | The rich and bittersweet notes of dark chocolate enhance the cigar’s cocoa and earthy undertones, creating a decadent and indulgent experience. |
| Sparkling Water | For a palate cleanser between puffs, the crisp and refreshing nature of sparkling water helps to keep the flavors bright and allows you to fully appreciate the cigar’s nuances. |
Authenticity Verification
We understand the importance of authenticity when purchasing premium Cuban cigars. That’s why we guarantee that every Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure Especial we offer is 100% genuine. To ensure your peace of mind, we provide the following methods for verifying the authenticity of your cigars:
- Habanos Holographic Seal – Each box of authentic Habanos cigars is sealed with a holographic seal featuring a unique serial number. This seal is virtually impossible to replicate and serves as a primary indicator of authenticity.
- Box Code Verification – Every box of Habanos cigars is stamped with a unique box code, which can be verified on the Habanos S.A. website. This code provides information about the factory of origin and the date of production.
- Factory Stamp – Authentic Habanos cigars bear a factory stamp, indicating the specific factory where they were produced. This stamp is a subtle but important detail that can help to identify genuine cigars.
- Triple Cap – Cuban cigars are known for their distinctive triple cap construction. This intricate design requires skill and precision to create and is a hallmark of authentic Habanos cigars.
Our Guarantee: If any cigar fails Habanos verification, we provide a full refund. Trusted by collectors since 2015.
Explore More Cuban Cigars
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the difference between the Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure No. 2 and the Epicure Especial?
The primary difference lies in the size. Both cigars share the same ring gauge (50), but the Epicure Especial is longer, measuring 5.6 inches compared to the Epicure No. 2’s 4.9 inches. This longer length translates to a slightly longer smoking time and a more complex evolution of flavors.
How long does the Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure Especial typically take to smoke?
On average, the Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure Especial provides a smoking time of approximately 80-90 minutes. This can vary depending on your smoking pace and the environmental conditions.
Is the Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure Especial a mild or medium-bodied cigar?
The Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure Especial is generally considered to be a medium-bodied cigar. It offers a balanced and approachable smoking experience with enough complexity to satisfy experienced smokers, but without being overpowering for those who prefer a milder profile.
Are there any differences in quality between the cigars sold in boxes versus those sold in aluminum tubes (tubos)?
In terms of the cigar’s quality itself, there should be no discernible difference between those sold in boxes and those in tubes. The aluminum tubes provide an added layer of protection, making them ideal for travel or short-term storage. However, for long-term aging, proper storage in a humidor is recommended, regardless of whether the cigars are tubed or not.
