Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure No.2

The Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure No. 2 is the flagship Robusto of the celebrated Epicure series and a genuine benchmark for the Cuban Robusto format. Hand-made from select long-filler tobaccos of the Vuelta Abajo region, it is renowned for its approachability, balance and refined, aromatic character — the Robusto of choice for many cigar epicureans. Once presented entirely without a band, it now wears two, so there’s no mistaking its pedigree. Medium-bodied and elegantly complex, it offers everything the Robusto shape does best in around forty-five minutes of smooth, satisfying smoking.

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About Hoyo de Monterrey

Founded in 1865 by Don José Gener y Batet, Hoyo de Monterrey is one of Cuba’s most historic and cherished cigar brands. Its name — “the Hole of Monterrey” — refers to the low-lying, exceptionally fertile land along the San Juan y Martínez river in the heart of the Vuelta Abajo, Cuba’s premier tobacco-growing region. Gener, a Spanish immigrant, spent decades perfecting his plantation and his craft, and his cigars quickly became favourites among British and European smokers. To this day Hoyo de Monterrey is synonymous with elegance, aromatic complexity and a lighter, refined flavour profile — the connoisseur’s choice for sophistication without overwhelming strength.

Tasting Notes of the Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure No. 2

A refined, evolving, medium-bodied Robusto.

- Pre-Light: Intense aroma of nuts, wood and subtle spice.

- First Third: Creamy cedar and toasted almond with gentle spice and a touch of sweet vanilla; the retrohale brings grassy freshness and floral undertones.

- Mid-Smoke: Deepens into honey, brown sugar, cocoa and earth, with a mellow nuttiness and a hint of lemon zest; cedar and musk form a complex backbone.

- Final Third: Intensifies with earth, coffee and a toasty finish; pepper and minerality emerge, balanced by lingering sweetness and a creamy texture.

- Aroma: Inviting, with wood, chocolate and a nutty, floral bouquet.

English Market Selection — sourced through Hunters & Frankau, the sole official UK distributor of Cuban cigars, confirming these Havanas reached the UK through the authorised channel and passed additional authenticity and condition checks.

Free UK delivery for purchases over £50.

Explore more Hoyo de Monterrey: Le Hoyo de San Juan | Epicure No. 1 | Hoyo de Monterrey Collection

Fun Facts About the Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure No. 2

The Epicure No. 2 was for years a “no-band” cigar — famously sold plain — before Habanos gave it its now-familiar double band. Longtime aficionados still associate it with that understated, purist heritage.

The name Hoyo de Monterrey — “the Hole of Monterrey” — refers to a real sunken parcel of prime land in the Vuelta Abajo, so fertile that Gener singled it out on his plantation; the brand literally takes its name from the ground its tobacco grows in.

The Epicure No. 2 is widely regarded as one of the definitive Cuban Robustos — a reference point against which many other Havana robustos are judged.

FAQ About the Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure No. 2

Is the Epicure No. 2 good for beginners?
Yes — Hoyo de Monterrey’s lighter, elegant style and this cigar’s balance make it one of the most approachable premium Cuban Robustos, while still offering plenty for experienced palates.

What does “English Market Selection” (EMS) mean?
EMS confirms the cigars were selected for the UK market and arrived via the official importer, Hunters & Frankau, passing additional authenticity and condition checks.

How long does it take to smoke?
Around forty-five minutes — a classic Robusto length for a relaxed smoke.

Where are your Cuban cigars sourced from?
Through Hunters & Frankau, the sole official UK distributor of Cuban cigars.