Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure Especial
The Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure Especial represents the pinnacle of the standard Epicure line — a Robusto Extra vitola that takes the brand's trademark delicacy and translates it onto a broader, more generous canvas. Measuring 141mm in length with a 52 ring gauge, this cigar offers the refinement of a classic Hoyo with the smoke volume and leisurely pace that experienced smokers appreciate. It is the natural progression for anyone who has enjoyed the Epicure No. 2 and wants something with a thicker gauge and a longer, more contemplative burn. The Epicure Especial is Hoyo de Monterrey at its most expansive within the standard range.
Verified Specifications
Tasting Notes
The Epicure Especial opens with the soft, welcoming sweetness that is the Hoyo de Monterrey hallmark. Toasted cedar and dry hay lead, underpinned by a faint floral note on the retrohale. The 52 ring gauge produces a generous, cool draw, and the smoke is voluminous and creamy. The first third establishes the cigar's medium-bodied credentials with quiet confidence — no aggression, no bitterness, just a composed, elegant opening that invites the smoker to settle in.
The second third deepens the profile with the unhurried pace that the 52 ring gauge allows. Nutty characteristics emerge — toasted almond in particular — alongside a gentle spiced warmth. The cedar remains the backbone, but a honeyed quality develops, giving the smoke a rounded, satisfying character. The floral note on the retrohale becomes more defined, and the texture of the smoke is velvety and luxurious. This is where the thicker gauge pays dividends — the blend has room to breathe, and the flavour transitions are gradual and absorbing.
The final third brings a gentle increase in intensity. Earthy notes join the cedar, and a white pepper finish makes its appearance on the retrohale. The cigar never crosses into full-bodied territory, maintaining its essential Hoyo refinement throughout. The burn remains sharp, and the ash holds firm in pale grey stacks. The Epicure Especial finishes the way it started — elegant, balanced, and thoroughly satisfying.
Construction
The Epicure Especial is hand-rolled in the Robusto Extra format using long-filler tobacco from the Vuelta Abajo region. The wrapper is a shade-grown Cuban leaf with a silky, lightly oily sheen and minimal veining. The roll is firm but not tight, and the triple cap is well-constructed and holds up to a clean cut or punch. Draw resistance is ideal — enough pull to regulate the pace without effort. Burn line consistency is excellent, rarely requiring touch-ups. The 52 ring gauge is evenly packed along the full 141mm length, ensuring a consistent draw from start to finish.
Pairing
The Epicure Especial pairs beautifully with aged rum — a 15-year Dominican or Cuban reserve brings out the cigar's sweeter notes without overpowering its delicacy. A single malt whisky with honeyed, low-peat characteristics also works well, particularly in the second third where the nutty notes develop. For non-spirit drinkers, a lightly sweetened espresso or a cup of darjeeling tea complements the floral and cedar elements. Avoid heavily peated or aggressively smoky pairings, which will overwhelm the cigar's refined character.
Value
The Epicure Especial occupies a sweet spot in the Hoyo de Monterrey lineup. It offers more smoking time and a richer draw experience than the Epicure No. 2, yet remains firmly in the medium-bodied camp where Hoyo built its reputation. For cigar enthusiasts who want a daily-rotation robusto that never disappoints, the Epicure Especial delivers consistent quality at a sensible position within the Cuban cigar landscape. Its reliability makes it a cornerstone of any well-stocked humidor.
About the Brand
Hoyo de Monterrey traces its origins to 1865, when José Gener established the brand in the San Juan y Martínez area of the Vuelta Abajo. The name — "hole of Monterrey" — refers to the valley where Gener first cultivated his tobacco. From its inception, the brand built its identity around mildness and elegance. Today, Hoyo de Monterrey is distributed worldwide by Habanos S.A. and remains one of the most recognisable Cuban cigar brands. See our Hoyo de Monterrey category page for the full range.
Storage
Store the Epicure Especial at 65-70% relative humidity and 18-20°C in a well-maintained humidor. Like all Cuban cigars, it benefits from ageing — six months to a year of additional rest will round out the edges and allow the blend to marry further. Avoid storing in overly humid conditions (above 72%), which can swell the 52 ring gauge and cause draw issues. Cedar-lined humidors with proper humidity management are ideal. See our shipping and handling information.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure Especial a good cigar for beginners?
Yes. Its medium strength and gentle, approachable flavour profile make it an excellent choice for those new to Cuban cigars. The 52 ring gauge provides a cool, smooth draw that is forgiving even for inexperienced smokers. Many consider it an ideal step up from the Epicure No. 2.
How long does the Epicure Especial take to smoke?
Expect approximately 70 to 90 minutes, depending on your smoking pace. The 141mm length and 52 ring gauge are designed for a relaxed, unhurried session.
What is the difference between the Epicure Especial and the Epicure No. 2?
The Epicure Especial is longer (141mm vs 140mm) and thicker (52 ring gauge vs 46), giving it a cooler smoke, more volume, and a slightly richer flavour development. The Epicure No. 2 is a Coronas Gordas format that runs a touch warmer and delivers a more concentrated profile. See our Epicure No. 2 page for a direct comparison.
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*Brand reference: Hoyo de Monterrey — Wikipedia*
