Ratings & reviews
Editorial score
Community score
Be the first
Organoleptic profile
Strength
medium
Balance
very good
Draw
perfect
Intensity
expressive
- Bouquet
- complex
- Finish
- medium
- Ash color
- gray
- Smoke output
- medium
Aroma profile
Dominant aromas
Secondary aromas
Tasting notes
The Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure No. 1, a true ambassador of Cuban tradition, presents itself with a lush wrapper in ash-colored hues and a slightly oily texture. Upon cutting, you are welcomed by a perfect shape that promises a pleasant tasting experience. Its Coronas Gordas format, measuring 142.9 mm (5⅝") in length and 18.3 mm (¾") in diameter, immediately captures your attention and invites you to explore.
From the very first puff, an olfactory feat unfolds. Pre-light, subtle notes of cedar wood and a creamy lightness announce themselves, while upon lighting, these aromas take on a more pronounced character, with hints of coffee and a gentle presence of earth. As the draws progress, the aromatic evolution confirms itself, revealing a rich and well-balanced palette.
On the palate, the complexity unfolds harmoniously across the three thirds. In the first third, the flavors are moderately present, highlighting the sweetness of the tobacco. Midway through the tasting, coffee and leather begin to assert themselves with a certain elegance. The final third reveals an additional depth, enriched by notes of sweet spices, creating a beautiful coherence and an enhanced sense of satisfaction.
The finish is marked by a beautiful persistence on the palate, with a slightly sweet sensation that invites you to prolong the pleasure. The balance between strength and sweetness makes the Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure No. 1 a centerpiece for cigar enthusiasts. What makes it unique? Its ability to be enjoyed both solo and in excellent company.
To fully appreciate this marvel, choose a moment of tranquility, perhaps on a summer evening, accompanied by a smooth whisky or a white beer, which will enhance the delicate aromas and elevate the tasting experience.
Community impressions
Enthusiasts of this cigar highlight its balance and smoothness, making it perfect for an introduction to the world of Cuban cigars. Its aromatic complexity and easy draw make it a favored choice, despite some fluctuations in consistency. The finish and harmony of the pre-light aromas contribute to a pleasant and memorable tasting experience.
How to taste: Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure No. 1
▼
1.The Visual Examination
The Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure No. 1 features a colorado wrapper, a shiny reddish-brown that is slightly oily, attesting to the quality of its Cuban origin. Its Coronas Gordas format, with a length of 142.9 mm (5⅝") and a ring gauge of 46, offers a pleasant grip, while its beautiful construction promises a satisfying smoking experience.
This initial observation allows for an assessment of the overall quality of the cigar, an essential indicator for anticipating the aromas and richness of the tasting.
2.Pre-light Aromas
Before lighting, inhaling the aromas reveals notes of cedar, coffee, and damp earth emanating from the cigar. These scents, enriched with a hint of leather, cream, and sweet spices, testify to the complexity of the tobaccos used.
This olfactory step allows you to anticipate the aromatic palette you will explore and prepares your senses for a more attentive tasting.
3.The Cut
By making a standard straight cut under the cap, you ensure optimal access to the aromas and ideal airflow. Ensure that the cut is clean to avoid discomfort during the tasting.
A well-executed cut is crucial for an easy draw, thereby minimizing the risks of uneven burn that could detract from the experience.
4.Cold Draw
The cold draw of the Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure No. 1 is perfect, offering pleasant resistance without blockage. This indicates that the construction is meticulous and the tobaccos are well-balanced.
This step allows for the detection of any potential manufacturing defects before lighting, ensuring a smooth and surprise-free tasting.
5.Lighting
During lighting, be sure to toast the foot well to ensure an even burn. A careful lighting highlights the richness of the aromas that will develop as you progress through your tasting.
A good lighting prevents canoes, combustion issues that can disrupt the balance of flavors during the tasting.
6.First Third
In the first third, the strength is medium, accompanied by dominant notes of cedar, coffee, and a medium volume of smoke. These characteristics provide a seductive introduction to the complexity of the cigar.
This initial contact with the aromas helps to establish your expectations and appreciate the evolution of flavors throughout your experience.
7.Second Third
As you progress, secondary aromas of leather, cream, and sweet spices emerge, enriching the tasting experience in a very good balance. These nuances add depth to the tasting.
Observing this evolution is essential for appreciating the complexity and harmony of the different tobaccos present in the cigar, which could enhance your overall appreciation.
8.The Finish
The gray color of the ash, combined with a beautiful finish and a slight residual sweetness, attests to the quality of the blend. The finish being medium allows you to savor the aromas until the last puff.
This final step allows you to conclude on the overall experience and evaluate the complexity of the blend, while highlighting the importance of the drying of the leaves.