Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure No.1

The Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure No.1 is a classic Cuban Corona Gorda, renowned for its refined balance, aromatic complexity and lighter, elegant style. Measuring 5⅝ inches (143 mm) with a 46 ring gauge, this cigar is totally handmade with long‑filler tobaccos from the famed Vuelta Abajo region and offers around 45–60 minutes of smooth, medium‑bodied smoking. The Epicure No.1 is celebrated for its consistently even burn, effortless draw and fragrant profile – a long‑standing favourite among fans of this format, and notably lighter tasting than Punch Punch or Cohiba Siglo IV while still delivering plenty of flavour.

About Hoyo de Monterrey Cigars

Founded in the 19th century by Don José Gener y Batet, Hoyo de Monterrey is one of Cuba’s most historic and cherished cigar brands. The name, meaning “the Hole of Monterrey”, refers to the low‑lying, fertile land along the San Juan y Martínez river in the heart of the Vuelta Abajo – terrain prized by growers for producing some of Cuba’s finest tobacco. Gener, a Spanish immigrant, invested decades into developing his plantation and factory, and his cigars quickly became favourites among British and European smokers who appreciated their elegance and aromatic complexity. Today, Hoyo de Monterrey is known for its lighter, refined flavour profile across lines such as the Epicure series, making it a top choice for aficionados seeking sophistication without overwhelming strength.

Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure No.1 – Tasting Notes

The Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure No.1 offers a nuanced, medium‑bodied profile with a creamy texture and plenty of fragrant detail.

Initial third:
Opens with creamy notes of coffee and toasted nuts, backed by a gentle sweetness reminiscent of sugarcane and vanilla. Subtle cedar and floral aromas are present from the start, supported by a touch of earth and light spice that adds structure without heaviness.

Middle third:
The profile develops with richer woodiness, brown toast and a hint of leather. Hazelnut, cocoa and a mild maple‑like sweetness emerge, all wrapped in a refined, buttery texture that keeps the smoke smooth and accessible.

Final third:
Flavours deepen with more pronounced earth, leather and a mild peppery spice on the palate and retrohale. The finish remains clean and elegant, with lingering cedar, roasted nuts and a touch of citrus zest that lifts the aftertaste without upsetting the cigar’s balance.

Aroma & mouthfeel:
Expect a bouquet of sweet cedar, floral notes, vanilla and light cocoa, underpinned by a mellow, creamy sweetness. The smoke is smooth and velvety, with a consistently easy draw and a steady burn that keeps the body firmly in the medium range – never overwhelming, always poised.

All our Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure No.1 cigars are genuine English Market Selection (EMS) stock for the UK, ensuring authenticity and proper handling from Cuba to your humidor.

Free UK delivery on orders over £50.

Other H. Upmann Cigars We Recommend

If you enjoy the elegant, medium‑bodied style of the Epicure No.1 and want to explore more classic Cubans, two H. Upmann cigars make excellent companions. The H. Upmann Connoisseur No.2 offers a slightly richer, creamier profile with notes of honey, roasted nuts and gentle spice in a modern robusto‑like format, ideal if you want a bit more body while staying firmly in the refined camp. For a more traditional, smaller format, the H. Upmann Regalias delivers classic Upmann flavours – cedar, toast, light coffee and soft sweetness – in a handy petit corona size that’s perfect for shorter UK smoking windows.

You can explore these and many more Habanos vitolas in our curated Cuban selection here: Buy Cuban Cigars Online | Fine Cigars Club.