Ratings & reviews
Editorial score
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Organoleptic profile
Strength
medium
Balance
good
Draw
easy
Intensity
expressive
- Bouquet
- complex
- Finish
- long
- Ash color
- gray
- Smoke output
- medium
Aroma profile
Dominant aromas
Tasting notes
The Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure Especial Tubos, an iconic cigar from Cuba, comes in a generous format with a length of 139.7 mm (5½") and a diameter of 19.8 mm (¾"). Its packaging exudes a particular elegance, showcasing its Cuban wrapper and binder in light brown hues, featuring a smooth and uniform texture that will captivate enthusiasts at first glance.
Upon lighting, this cigar releases subtle aromas of cocoa and coffee, accompanied by notes of hazelnut and a hint of spices. The complexity of its bouquet reveals interesting nuances from the outset, leaning towards woody and vanilla tones, thus offering an enticing first olfactory contact. Once the initial puffs are taken, you will experience an initial sweetness that gradually intensifies.
On the palate, the development of flavors is distinguished across three well-defined thirds. As you progress, the richness of the experience deepens with notes of dark chocolate and roasted coffee blending with woody essences. The emphasis on creamy and sweet aromas provides this cigar with a captivating aromatic harmony despite some variations in intensity. It leaves a pleasant sensation while maintaining a beautiful coherence in its structure.
The finish is a true revelation: a subtle blend of sweetness and spices that lingers in the mouth. The enjoyable sensation continues with a beautiful length and a well-balanced interplay between strength and sweetness. This cigar stands out for its ability to transport you with its rich flavors while respecting Cuban authenticity.
Ideal for an evening tasting or during a friendly gathering, the Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure Especial Tubos pairs wonderfully with a glass of whisky or an intense coffee, thereby enhancing its character while providing a moment of conviviality and escape.
Community impressions
Enthusiasts of this cigar highlight its balance between sweetness and complexity, making it perfect for moments of relaxation. Its beautiful aromatic evolution and notes of cocoa and coffee make it a favored choice. However, some note a slight monotony in the flavors, but the majority agree that its quality-to-price ratio is satisfactory.
How to taste: Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure Especial Tubos
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1.The Visual Examination
The Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure Especial Tubos showcases a beautiful colorado wrapper, a shiny reddish-brown that is slightly oily. Its construction is of very high quality, and with a length of 139.7 mm (5½") and a ring gauge of 50, this gordito format is both attractive and promising.
This initial visual impression provides insight into the craftsmanship and upcoming organoleptic characteristics — a well-made wrapper can often indicate a richness in pre-light aromas.
2.Pre-light Aromas
Before lighting, the cold draw reveals rich aromas of chocolate, coffee, and hazelnut, subtly mingling with woody and spicy notes. This step allows one to grasp the aromatic nuances that will develop subsequently.
These initial aromas are a testament to the quality of the raw tobacco — they prepare you to better appreciate the transformations that will occur during the burn.
3.The Cut
Opt for a standard straight cut just below the cap to optimize the draw. Ensure that the cut is clean to avoid any tearing of the wrapper that could compromise the tasting experience.
A good cut is essential to ensure a consistent draw — this directly influences the smoking experience, allowing for a harmonious burn.
4.Cold Draw
The draw is easy, indicating good airflow through the cigar. This anticipates a smooth and enjoyable smoking experience, free from obstruction.
Checking the ease of the cold draw prevents discomfort during lighting — a blocked draw could lead to combustion difficulties, detracting from the tasting experience.
5.Lighting
Lighting should be done evenly to ensure a homogeneous burn. Take the time to properly toast the foot of the cigar.
A careful lighting prevents the occurrence of canoeing, where one part of the cigar burns faster than the other — this conditions the quality of the draw from the very first puffs.
6.First Third
In the first third, the cigar reveals a medium strength with dominant aromas of chocolate, coffee, and hazelnut. The smoke volume is also medium, providing a pleasant mouthfeel.
This first third is often the most intense — it allows for an assessment of the aromatic impact and the richness of flavors that will be present throughout the tasting.
7.Second Third
As you progress into the second third, secondary aromas of wood, spices, and vanilla begin to emerge, enriching the flavor profile of the cigar. The balance remains good, making the tasting enjoyable.
This key moment is where the complexity of the blend reveals itself — these aromatic evolutions testify to the richness of the tobacco and the Cuban craftsmanship.
8.The Finish
The color of the ash is gray, indicating a good burn. The finish leaves a soft and slightly spicy sensation with a nice persistence, creating a memorable experience.
The way the ash forms and the finish are indicators of the quality of the blend — a pleasant finish confirms the definition of balance and the excellence of the tobaccos used.