In the shifting landscape of Cuban tobacco, where trends often favor larger ring gauges and experimental blends, the H. Upmann Epicures stands as a defiant reminder of tradition. This petit corona is not merely a cigar; it is a historical artifact that has successfully navigated the turbulent waters of the industry for over half a century. Originating long before the revolutionary changes of the 1960s, this vitola has proven its staying power, evolving from a mass-market convenience into a handcrafted luxury. For the discerning smoker, it represents an accessible gateway into the storied H. Upmann marque, offering a compact yet surprisingly nuanced session that honors its heritage.
From Machine Assembly to Artisan Craft
The most fascinating chapter in the story of the Epicures is its dramatic production evolution. For decades, this cigar was relegated to the category of machine-made goods. During the mid-twentieth century, it was common practice for Cuban factories to utilize machinery for smaller formats to increase efficiency and reduce costs. Consequently, the Epicures was known primarily as a budget-friendly, utilitarian smoke. However, the landscape shifted dramatically in 2003 when Habanos S.A. made the pivotal decision to reclassify the cigar.
This transition transformed the Epicures into a fully handmade product, stripping away the mechanical efficiency in favor of artisanal precision. This was not a mere marketing adjustment; it fundamentally altered the smoking experience. By moving to handmade production, the cigar gained a new level of prestige, aligning it with the premium standards expected by modern aficionados. The move ensured that the delicate balance of tobaccos could be managed with greater care, allowing for a more consistent draw and burn than its machine-made predecessors could ever offer.
Technical Specifications and Presentation
Adhering to the classic definitions of its format, the Epicures maintains dimensions that favor concentration over duration. It measures 110 mm (4 3/8 inches) in length and features a slender ring gauge of 35. Weighing in at a modest 4.81 grams, it is designed for a smoking session that can be enjoyed in under an hour without sacrificing depth.
Packaging Evolution
Aesthetically, the cigar is presented in standard dress boxes of 25, adorned with the brand's recognized bands. Historically, observant collectors might recall that these cigars were once individually sheathed in cellophane. This protective layering was standard practice for the machine-made era but was phased out around 2002, just prior to the handmade transition. Today, the cigars sit naked in their boxes, allowing them to breathe and mature within the cedar environment, a feature appreciated by those who enjoy the aging process.
A Symphony of Classic Flavors
Upon lighting, the Epicures immediately establishes itself as a medium-bodied smoke, grounded in the earthy, herbal characteristics typical of the H. Upmann brand. It is a cigar that rewards the palate with a complex array of tasting notes that shift as the burn progresses.
- Earth and Wood: The foundation of the smoke rests on distinct notes of cedar and dried wood, intermingled with the pure taste of natural tobacco leaf.
- Savory Richness: Smokers will detect deep undertones of leather and roasted coffee, providing a savory backbone that keeps the flavor profile grounded.
- Subtle Sweetness: Unique to this blend are hints of shortbread and butter, offering a biscuit-like sweetness that balances the stronger savory elements.
- Bright Accents: The experience is lifted by surprising flashes of citrus and mint, cut through with a vegetal grassiness and a whisper of pepper spice on the retrohale.
The Verdict: Reliability Over Flash
How does the market view this enduring classic? Consumer ratings paint a picture of a reliable, "middle-of-the-road" performer that excels in consistency rather than extremes. Across categories such as elegance, balance, strength, complexity, and aftertaste, the Epicures consistently scores a 3 out of 5. These numbers suggest a smoke that is neither too bold nor too mild, striking a harmonious chord that is neither boring nor aggressive.
Interestingly, the overall rating tends to climb slightly higher than the individual attribute scores, resting at 3.67 out of 5. This discrepancy highlights a crucial aspect of the cigar: while it may not score a perfect five in any single metric, the sum of its parts creates a smoking experience that is greater than its individual components. It is a balanced, harmonious blend that delivers exactly what it promises—a high-quality, handmade Cuban cigar that respects its long history while satisfying the modern palate.
