Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure No. 2
For smokers seeking an entry point into Cuban cigars — or for experienced hands who want a refined, approachable smoke that does not demand a heavy palate — the Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure No. 2 is one of the most rewarding choices in the Habanos S.A. catalog. Where many Cuban cigars lead with power and intensity, the Epicure No. 2 leads with flavor: a creamy, cedar-tinged profile that is gentle enough for a morning smoke yet complex enough to hold the attention of a seasoned smoker over its full 70-minute burn. This is the cigar that demonstrates that "Cuban" does not automatically mean "strong," and it serves as an ideal gateway for anyone building a foundation in Cuban cigar appreciation.
Tasting Notes
First Third
The Epicure No. 2 opens with a gentle, creamy cedar note that immediately distinguishes it from the pepper-forward opening of stronger Cuban cigars. There is a mild grassy quality — not the sharp, herbal grassiness of a young Cohiba, but a softer, hay-like character that provides a delicate aromatic base. A faint sweetness, reminiscent of raw honey or lightly toasted grain, sits beneath the cedar. The 46 ring gauge produces smoke that is substantial but not overwhelming, and the draw is open and easy from the first light. The retrohale is smooth and cool, carrying a light woody aroma without pepper heat. This is an inviting, unhurried opening.
Second Third
The profile deepens without gaining aggression. The creamy cedar remains the foundation, but a nutty quality develops — toasted almond and a mild walnut note that adds textural richness. A subtle leather undertone appears, giving the flavor more dimension without increasing the body. The sweetness moderates, replaced by a drier, more savory character that balances the creaminess. The strength remains squarely in the medium range, making this a cigar that can be smoked comfortably at any time of day. The retrohale picks up a mild spice — not pepper, but something closer to nutmeg — that adds warmth without heat.
Final Third
The final third brings a quiet intensification. The cedar note becomes more pronounced, and a mild earthiness develops that was absent earlier. The nuttiness persists, now joined by a light coffee note — not the dark espresso of a full-strength cigar, but a gentle, milk-coffee character. The creaminess holds throughout, preventing the cigar from turning bitter even as flavors concentrate. The finish is clean, smooth, and slightly woody, with a pleasant aftertaste that lingers gently. The Epicure No. 2 ends as it began — approachable and balanced.
Construction
The wrapper is a light Colorado shade — noticeably lighter than Partagás or Bolívar wrappers — with a fine, dry sheen of oil that reflects Hoyo de Monterrey's preference for thinner, more delicate wrapper leaf. Veins are fine and unobtrusive. The cap is applied with care, and the head clips cleanly. The roll is medium in density — less firm than a Partagás or Bolívar, consistent with the marca's more approachable blend style. Draw resistance is open and easy, one of the Epicure No. 2's most appealing characteristics. The burn line is even and typically self-correcting. Ash is light grey, slightly less dense than that of fuller-strength cigars, but holds adequately in stacked rings. Smoke production is moderate-to-full, with a lighter, more aromatic room note than heavier Cuban cigars.
Pairing Recommendations
The Epicure No. 2's mild-to-medium profile makes it one of the most versatile Cuban cigars for pairing. A light, aged rum complements the creamy cedar notes without overpowering them. A younger, fruit-forward single malt Scotch works well, as does a smooth Irish whiskey. White wine — particularly a lightly oaked Chardonnay — is an unusual but effective pairing that echoes the cigar's creamy, nutty character. For non-alcoholic options, the Epicure No. 2 pairs beautifully with a medium-roast coffee or a milky tea. Avoid heavily peated, high-proof, or aggressively spiced pairings — these will mask the subtleties that make the Epicure No. 2 distinctive.
Value and Experience
The Epicure No. 2 is positioned as an accessible regular production cigar and offers outstanding value for the quality and consistency it delivers. This is a cigar you can smoke daily without palate fatigue, buy in quantity for aging, and recommend to friends who are new to Cuban cigars without worrying that the strength will put them off. The experience is a 60-to-70-minute smoke of quiet complexity — a steady, evolving progression of cedar, cream, and nut flavors that holds attention through restraint rather than force. For smokers whose collections lean toward full-strength cigars, the Epicure No. 2 serves as a palate reset — a cigar that reminds you what delicacy and balance taste like in Cuban tobacco.
Brand Background
Hoyo de Monterrey was founded in 1860 by Don José Gener, who named the brand after the Hoyo (hollow) in the Monterrey plantation where he first cultivated tobacco. The brand has built its reputation on lighter, more delicate blends that contrast with the full-strength character of marcas like Partagás and Bolívar. Hoyo de Monterrey tobacco is grown in the Vuelta Abajo region, and all cigars are produced totalmente a mano. Under the Habanos S.A. portfolio, Hoyo de Monterrey occupies the medium-strength position, making it the go-to marca for smokers who want Cuban character without overwhelming intensity. Learn more on Wikipedia's Hoyo de Monterrey article, and explore our Hoyo de Monterrey collection.
Storage
Store the Epicure No. 2 at 65–70% relative humidity and 18–20°C (64–68°F). Hoyo de Monterrey's lighter wrapper leaf is more sensitive to humidity fluctuations than the heavier wrappers used by full-strength marcas, so consistent conditions are particularly important. A calibrated digital hygrometer is essential. The Epicure No. 2 benefits from moderate aging — 6 months to 2 years softens the grassy opening notes and allows the nutty, creamy character to develop. Spanish cedar-lined storage is ideal. Avoid storing alongside strongly aromatic cigars in the same humidor compartment, as cross-contamination of aromas can affect the subtler profile.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure No. 2 a good cigar for beginners?
Yes — the Epicure No. 2 is one of the best Cuban cigars for smokers new to the category. Its medium strength is approachable without being flavorless, and its creamy, cedar-forward profile avoids the aggressive pepper that can overwhelm inexperienced palates. The 46 ring gauge is comfortable to hold and draw, and the open construction makes smoking effortless. It serves as an excellent introduction to Cuban tobacco character while remaining enjoyable for experienced smokers who want a lighter option.
How does the Epicure No. 2 compare to the Montecristo No. 2?
The two cigars appeal to different preferences. The Epicure No. 2 is medium-strength with a creamy, cedar-and-nut profile, while the Montecristo No. 2 is a torpedo-format cigar with fuller body and more pronounced spice. The Montecristo is more intense and complex, while the Epicure No. 2 is smoother and more approachable. Smokers who find the Montecristo too strong will likely prefer the Epicure No. 2, while those who want more power may prefer the Montecristo.
What time of day is best for smoking the Epicure No. 2?
The Epicure No. 2's medium strength and gentle profile make it one of the few Cuban cigars well suited to morning or early afternoon smoking. Its creamy, nutty character pairs naturally with coffee, making it an ideal companion for a leisurely weekend morning. It is also light enough to enjoy after lunch without inducing the drowsiness that full-strength cigars can cause. Experienced smokers often keep the Epicure No. 2 as their "first cigar of the day" option.
Related Cigars
The Epicure No. 2 is an essential vitola for any balanced cigar collection. For a contrast in style, the Romeo y Julieta Churchills offers another medium-to-full approachable Cuban classic in a larger format, while the Montecristo No. 2 provides a more intense comparison point. Browse our complete Hoyo de Monterrey range for additional vitolas. Before purchasing, read our guide to authentic Cuban cigars. All orders require age verification. For shipping and international delivery, visit our shipping information page.
