The Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure No. 1 is a cigar that has been in production since before the Castro revolution. For decades, together with the Epicure No. 2, it has given prestige to the brand, even if the global market preferred the smaller brother more. Starting from 2008, Habanos SA extended the line with the production of the Epicure Especial and the Epicure De Luxe (exclusively for the LCDH circuit). Epicure No. 1 has remained, within the Cuban portfolio, one of the few representatives of the vitola de galera Corona Gorda. It is sold in a 25-ct Slid Lid Box and a 3-piece pack containing three aluminum tubes.
Usually, the cigar is rolled with bright Colorado leaves with red reflections, but it is also possible to find slightly lighter ones. To the touch, the band is almost always smooth, with small veins. The overall quality is good, as is the filling.
- Country of Origin: Cuba
- Size: 46 x 143 mm (6.63″)
- Wrapper: Cuba
- Binder: Cuba
- Filler: Cuba
- Price: $ N.A. – € 12.60
Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure No. 1: only a few aromas are perceived in the cold draw, which strongly recall wood and dried fruit.
Once lit, the opening is rather sweet, with a sapid nuance. Balsamic and woody notes are released immediately, enriched by a latent earthiness. Strength is medium-light (2/5).
In the central section, the sweetness loses its intensity. The balsamic and wood aromas remain unchanged, while a note of hazelnut is added. Strength remains medium – light (2/5).
In the last third, the aromas evolve, with the balsamic note, which becomes very pronounced, followed by nuts and wood, with a hint of cocoa. Strength increases, becoming medium (3/5).
In conclusion, this Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure No. 1 amazes and captivates with its refined simplicity. Although the evolution between the first two thirds is not particularly broad, it increases in the last third. The balance makes it an exquisite product, in a definitely not fashionable format. It is an “old-style” Cuban but always contemporary, suitable for those looking for refinement and elegance.