Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure Especial
There is a reason the Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure Especial sits at the top of every seasoned smoker's shortlist when the conversation turns to robusto-format Cuban cigars. Measuring 141mm in length with a 52 ring gauge, this Robusto Extra vitola takes everything the Hoyo de Monterrey marque is celebrated for — that trademark delicacy, the creamy cedar sweetness, the approachability — and amplifies it across a broader, more generous canvas. The result is a cigar that delivers the refinement of a classic Hoyo with enough body and smoking time to satisfy those who want a proper sit-down experience. For anyone stepping up from the Epicure No. 2 to something with a thicker gauge and longer burn, the Epicure Especial is the natural next step.
Verified Specifications
Tasting Notes
The Epicure Especial opens with a soft, welcoming sweetness that is quintessential Hoyo de Monterrey. The first third introduces toasted cedar and dry hay on the palate, underpinned by a faint floral note that lingers on the retrohale. The draw is generous thanks to the 52 ring gauge, producing voluminous smoke that coats the mouth with a creamy texture. There is no harshness here — the cigar establishes its medium-bodied credentials early and never wavers from that lane.
Into the second third, the profile deepens without losing its composure. Nutty characteristics emerge — toasted almond in particular — alongside a gentle spiced note that brings warmth rather than bite. The cedar remains the backbone, but a subtle honeyed quality develops, giving the smoke a rounded, almost dessert-like quality at times. This is where the extra ring gauge pays dividends: the blend has room to breathe, and the flavour transitions are gradual and unhurried.
The final third brings a gentle uptick in intensity. Earthy notes join the cedar, and a white pepper finish makes its first real appearance on the retrohale. Even so, the cigar never crosses into full-bodied territory. The burn remains razor-sharp throughout, and the ash holds firm in pale grey stacks. This is a cigar that finishes the way it started — elegant, balanced, and thoroughly satisfying.
Construction
Hoyo de Monterrey's rolling standards are on full display here. The Epicure Especial is hand-rolled using long-filler tobacco from the Vuelta Abajo region, the premier tobacco-growing zone in Cuba. The wrapper is typically a shade-grown leaf with a silky, slightly oily sheen and minimal veining. The roll is firm but not tight, and the cigar is capped with a well-constructed triple cap that holds up to a clean punch or cut. Draw resistance is ideal — just enough pull to slow the smoker down without effort. Burn line consistency is one of this cigar's strong suits, rarely requiring touch-ups even in outdoor conditions.
Pairing
The Epicure Especial pairs beautifully with aged rum — something along the lines of 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-spirits drinkers, a lightly sweetened espresso or a cup of darjeeling tea complements the floral and cedar elements. Avoid heavily peated or smoky pairings, which will bulldoze 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 serious humidor.
About the Brand
Hoyo de Monterrey traces its origins to 1865, when José Gener established the brand in the fertile 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, a counterpoint to the heavier, more robust cigars that dominated the era. Today, Hoyo de Monterrey is distributed worldwide by Habanos S.A. and remains one of the most recognisable Cuban cigar brands on the market. You can learn more about the full range on our Hoyo de Monterrey category page.
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 or travel tubes with proper humidity management are ideal. For guidance on preserving your investment, 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 with the 141mm length and 52 ring gauge, depending on your smoking pace. The Robusto Extra format is 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, which 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*
