Notes & évaluations
Note de la rédaction
Note des amateurs
Soyez le premier
Organoleptic profile
Strength
mild
Balance
very good
Draw
perfect
Intensity
expressive
- Bouquet
- complex
- Finish
- medium
- Ash color
- gray
- Smoke output
- medium
Aroma profile
Secondary aromas
Tasting notes
You will be immediately charmed by the alluring appearance of the Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure No. 2. With dimensions of 123.8 mm in length and 19.8 mm in diameter, its Cuban wrapper showcases a beautiful texture, shiny and perfectly oiled. The presentation is impeccable, and each cigar is a true tribute to Cuban craftsmanship.
Upon lighting, the first olfactory contact proves to be very promising. You will be enveloped by pre-light aromas of roasted coffee, enriched with notes of leather and wood. These scents, both sweet and rich, will become more defined as you smoke, revealing themselves even more harmoniously, making your experience absolutely fascinating.
On the palate, the complexity of this vitola unfolds in three stages. In the first third, woody and earthy flavors gently settle in, followed by an evolution towards creamier notes, and gradually, a subtle hint of hazelnut. The final third brings a slight spice, never disturbing the balance, perfect for savoring each puff with delight.
In the finish, you will feel a pleasant persistence accompanied by a smooth texture that invites contemplation. The balance between strength and sweetness is idyllic, and the whole constitutes an aromatic surge that is far from ordinary. This Hoyo will make you understand why so many enthusiasts consider it an essential in their humidor.
For an exceptional moment, enjoy this cigar during a quiet afternoon, ideally paired with a good chilled Chablis or, for the more adventurous, a Sancerre. This setting will enhance your tasting experience while highlighting the subtle nuances of the Epicure No. 2.
Community impressions
Cigar enthusiasts highlight this cigar's balance between sweetness and strength, with a pleasant aromatic complexity and an easy draw. Its creamy texture and notes of coffee, wood, and leather make it a preferred choice. However, some note that the smoke volume can sometimes be limited. Nevertheless, it remains an excellent companion for moments of relaxation.
How to taste: Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure No. 2
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1.Visual Examination
The Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure No. 2 features a colorful colorado wrapper, with a bright reddish-brown hue and a slightly oily texture. Its construction is very beautiful, reflecting meticulous care in its crafting. With dimensions of 123.8 mm and a ring gauge of 50, this cigar showcases a robust format that catches the eye.
The visual aspect of the cigar is a primary indicator of its craftsmanship quality — a smooth and uniform wrapper often signifies a good draw and an even burn.
2.Pre-light Aromas
Before lighting, the aromas released by the Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure No. 2 are dominated by notes of coffee and leather, accompanied by a woody touch. These complex and enticing scents offer a promising preview of the tasting to come.
This step allows for the identification of the natural tobacco aromas before they are altered by heat — it helps to set expectations for the flavor profile that will develop during the smoke.
3.The Cut
The standard cut below the cap is essential for this cigar, ensuring optimal access to the filler. The edges of the cut should be clean and sharp, so as not to compromise the integrity of the smoke.
A well-executed cut ensures a consistent draw — a poor cut can lead to draw difficulties and an imbalance in the tasting experience.
4.Cold Draw
At this stage, the cold draw of the Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure No. 2 is perfect, allowing for a smooth and pleasant inhalation. This preliminary sensation is a good omen for the unfolding of the tasting.
Testing the cold draw reveals any potential construction flaws before lighting, thus avoiding unpleasant surprises during the smoke.
5.Lighting
During lighting, it is crucial to ensure an even burn at the foot. This cigar benefits from a beautiful combustion due to its careful construction, contributing to a balanced first impression.
An even lighting is fundamental to avoid canoes — a good start minimizes the corrections needed during the tasting and allows for full enjoyment of the aromas.
6.First Third
The first third of the Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure No. 2 is characterized by its smoothness, with dominant aromas of coffee and leather. The smoke volume is medium, creating a beautiful aromatic envelope.
Evaluating the strength and aromas during this phase allows for an understanding of the cigar's potential evolution — it is a key moment to appreciate the initial nuances and adjust one's smoking pace.
7.Second Third
At this stage, the cigar begins to reveal its secondary aromas of hazelnut and damp earth, while maintaining a very good balance. The complexity gently asserts itself, offering a rich and nuanced experience.
Observing this evolution is essential to appreciate the depth of the blend — this is where the mastery of smoking time can enhance the tasting pleasures.
8.The Finish
At the end of the tasting, the ashes of the Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure No. 2 are gray, indicating a good burn. The finish presents a light persistence in the mouth, accompanied by a pleasant salivation.
The color of the ashes and the finish are key indicators of the quality of the tobacco used — a beautiful finish and good salivation confirm a successful tasting.