E.P. Carrillo Encore Majestic

The E.P. Carrillo Encore Majestic is a box-pressed Robusto measuring 5⅜" × 52, hand-crafted at Tabacalera La Alianza in the Dominican Republic. A Nicaraguan puro dressed in a lustrous reddish-brown wrapper, it draws on meticulously aged tobaccos from Estelí, Condega and Jalapa, and is celebrated for its harmonious balance, flawless construction and medium-to-full-bodied refinement. Crowned Cigar Aficionado’s #1 Cigar of the Year in 2018, the Encore is master blender Ernesto Perez-Carrillo’s follow-up masterpiece — an “encore” performance in every sense, showcasing his unparalleled expertise in a cigar that delights connoisseurs and newcomers alike. Cigar Aficionado called it lively and zesty, with candied cashew and maple-glazed pecan against spicier notes — “interesting and delicious.”

Read next: the craft behind every cigar

About E.P. Carrillo

E.P. Carrillo is the signature brand of legendary master blender Ernesto Perez-Carrillo, one of the pivotal figures in modern cigar history. With roots in pre-revolution Cuba and decades of expertise honed in Miami and the Dominican Republic, the Carrillo family has built a reputation for innovation, quality and artistry. Since launching E.P. Carrillo in 2009, the brand has earned a remarkable run of accolades — multiple “Cigar of the Year” titles and a consistent stream of 90+ ratings. Every cigar reflects Ernesto’s commitment to tradition, meticulous blending and a passion for nuanced, memorable smoking experiences.

Tasting Notes of the E.P. Carrillo Encore Majestic

A creamy, elegant, medium-to-full Nicaraguan puro.

- Initial Third: Opens with smooth cedar, sweet cream and a gentle spice, over subtle caramel, earth and toasted almond; an easy draw with a creamy, slightly peppery character.

- Middle Third: Sweetness returns to balance cedar and baking spice, with oak, tea and a hint of candied orange peel; smooth and medium-bodied with a lingering, elegant finish.

- Final Third: Deepens with charred wood, pine and a touch of leather, as sea-salt caramel, cinnamon and black pepper intensify; a hint of buttered popcorn and citrus zest add complexity to a rich, satisfying close.

- Aroma: An inviting bouquet of cedar, earth and sweet cream, with a subtle citrus and spice undertone.

- Mouthfeel: Creamy and smooth with a velvet-like texture and an even burn; the box press enhances the draw and flavour delivery.

Sourced through TOR Imports, the UK distributor of E.P. Carrillo cigars — your assurance that these cigars reached the UK through the authorised channel and arrived in optimum condition.

Free UK delivery for purchases over £50.

Discover more award-winning E.P. Carrillo cigars: Allegiance Confidant | Pledge Prequel

Fun Facts About the E.P. Carrillo Encore Majestic

The Encore was named Cigar Aficionado’s #1 Cigar of the Year in 2018 — the top honour in the industry, and one of several such titles Ernesto Perez-Carrillo has collected across his career.

The name captures its purpose: as the second act in an extraordinary series, the Encore is Ernesto’s “encore” — the master returning for another standout performance after his earlier award-winners.

Despite being a Nicaraguan puro (all its tobacco is Nicaraguan), the Encore is rolled in the Dominican Republic at Carrillo’s Tabacalera La Alianza — a nod to the master’s cross-border command of the world’s great tobaccos.

FAQ About the E.P. Carrillo Encore Majestic

Why is the Encore so highly rated?
It was named Cigar Aficionado’s #1 Cigar of the Year in 2018, praised for its harmonious balance, flawless construction and complex, elegant flavour — a benchmark of Ernesto Perez-Carrillo’s blending.

Is it a strong cigar?
Medium-to-full-bodied — flavourful and complex, with cedar, cream, caramel and spice, but smooth and balanced rather than overpowering.

What’s the difference between the Encore and the Pledge?
Both are Carrillo Cigar of the Year winners (Encore #1 in 2018, Pledge #1 in 2020). The Encore is a Nicaraguan puro with a reddish-brown wrapper; the Pledge is a bolder, darker cigar with a US-grown Connecticut Habano wrapper.

Where are your E.P. Carrillo cigars sourced from?
Through TOR Imports, the UK distributor.