Notes & évaluations
Note de la rédaction
Note des amateurs
Soyez le premier
Organoleptic profile
Strength
mild
Balance
good
Draw
slightly tight
Intensity
expressive
- Bouquet
- complex
- Finish
- medium
- Ash color
- gray
- Smoke output
- medium
Aroma profile
Secondary aromas
Tasting notes
The H. Upmann Epicures, a Cuban cigar in an elegant vitola of 111.1 mm (4⅜"), presents itself with a unique wrapper, a harmonious blend of brown hues and a rich texture under your fingers. Its well-crafted wrapper catches the eye and promises a refined smoking experience.
Upon first contact, its complex bouquet expresses itself powerfully. Pre-light aromas reveal notes of dried fruits, coffee, and a hint of leather. Upon lighting, these aromas intensify, giving way to a captivating aromatic richness that heralds an unforgettable experience. The first puffs unveil a subtle balance between sweetness and spicy warmth.
On the palate, this cigar is a true journey through flavors. The development unfolds elegantly: the aromas of coffee and leather evolve into deeper notes of nuts and wood as you progress. The draw is slightly challenging at times, which adds a sense of depth to the aromas but may pose a slight challenge during the most enjoyable puffs. The overall experience remains coherent, inviting you to savor each draw.
The finish is marked by a medium length and a warm texture that leaves a slight saltiness on the palate. While the balance between strength and sweetness is correct, it is the unique character of the H. Upmann Epicures that sets it apart. This is a cigar you could enjoy at any time, alone or paired with a full-bodied coffee to enhance its aromas.
To fully savor this cigar, a peaceful moment on the terrace, with a good book or in good company, is ideal. It pairs wonderfully with a cup of black coffee or a light spirit, highlighting the delicate notes of this perfect Cuban companion.
Community impressions
Cigar enthusiasts highlight its elegant appearance and complex aroma, while noting that it requires particular attention during smoking. Although the draw can sometimes be challenging, its rich and warm flavors make the H. Upmann Epicures an enticing choice for aficionados of Cuban cigars. In summary, this is a cigar to be savored slowly, to appreciate all its nuances.
How to taste: H. Upmann Epicures
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1.Visual Examination: A First Impression
The H. Upmann Epicures presents itself with a shiny, reddish-brown colorado wrapper that is slightly oily, typical of Habanos. Its construction is noted as mediocre, which may influence the quality of the burn. With a length of 111.1 mm (4⅜") and a ring gauge of 35, it fits well in the hand while promising an interesting tasting experience.
Observing the color and appearance of the wrapper provides a first indication of the origin and quality of the tobaccos. Poor construction may signal potential issues with the draw or burn, which is essential to anticipate.
2.Pre-light Aromas: Unveiling the Flavors
Before lighting, bring the cigar close to your nose to perceive the aromas it emits. The H. Upmann Epicures offers notes of nuts and coffee, accompanied by hints of leather. These aromas foreshadow a rich and flavorful experience.
This step allows for the identification of the aromatic potential of the tobacco in its raw state. The aromas perceived before any transformation by heat help to refine attention during the tasting.
3.The Cut: An Essential Gesture
Make a standard straight cut just below the cap to respect the shape and structure of the cigar. A well-executed cut helps to prepare the draw optimally, especially with a mediocre construction.
A careful cut is crucial to ensure an appropriate draw. A poorly executed cut could lead to draw difficulties or uneven combustion, thus affecting the tasting experience.
4.Cold Draw: Preparation Test
Gently draw on the cigar without lighting it to appreciate the airflow resistance. For the H. Upmann Epicures, the draw is a bit difficult, which may require special attention during the tasting.
This step allows for the identification of potential defects before lighting. A difficult draw may indicate issues to correct, such as a possible re-cut, thus ensuring a more enjoyable smoking experience.
5.Lighting: The Key to Good Combustion
Carefully light the cigar, ensuring to toast the foot evenly. Uniform combustion is particularly important here to avoid a canoeing effect during the tasting.
A correct lighting is fundamental to guarantee a homogeneous burn and avoid inconveniences that could detract from the tasting experience.
6.First Third: Discovering the Flavors
From the first puffs, the H. Upmann Epicures reveals a mild profile with dominant aromas of nuts and coffee. The smoke volume is medium, enhancing the feeling of comfort in the mouth.
This first third is crucial as it often sets the tone for the entire tasting. The mildness and initial aromatic impressions help to adjust the approach during subsequent draws.
7.Second Third: Maturation of Flavors
At this stage, the cigar begins to evolve with the emergence of secondary aromas such as dried fruits, wood, and light spices. The balance is maintained, providing a pleasant fluidity to the tasting.
Observing the evolution of aromas in this third allows for an understanding of the complexity of the blend. This phase is often where the nuances develop, enriching the overall experience.
8.The Finish: Lasting Sensations
At the end of the tasting, the gray ashes reveal a relatively clean burn. The mouthfeel is slightly salty, with a warm texture that satisfies the palate.
The color of the ashes and the finish provide clues about the quality of the tobaccos used. A well-crafted finish ensures a memorable experience, thus enhancing the appreciation of the cigar.