Hoyo Epicure No 2 Review

The Hoyo Epicure No 2 is Cuba’s gentle robusto, and many smokers consider it the most elegant of them all. It is creamy and refined, and it is easy to smoke in the afternoon. This review checks the specifications of the Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure No. 2, sets out the profile most smokers report and asks whether delicacy is enough.

The Hoyo Epicure No 2 at a glance

Hoyo de Monterrey dates from 1865. That year, the Spanish-born José Gener registered a cigar brand named after his tobacco farm in Vuelta Abajo. Since then, the brand has built a reputation for lighter, aromatic Cuban cigars.

The Epicure No. 2 is a robusto of 4 7/8 inches by a 50 ring gauge, or 124 mm. Its factory name is Robustos. The size has been in the range for decades. In 2016, Cigar Aficionado placed it in its Top 25 with 93 points. It comes in boxes and in slide-lid cabinets, and it also appears in a tubed version. Our Cuban cigars guide gives the wider background.

Construction and draw

Expect a well-filled robusto with a smooth, light-brown wrapper and a neat triple cap. Most reports describe an easy, even draw and a sharp burn line.

Meanwhile, the ash is usually light grey and firm. As with every Cuban line, some variation exists. Even so, the Epicure No. 2 has a good reputation for consistent construction.

First third

Expect a soft, creamy opening. Most smokers report cedar, fresh cream and a light floral note. A gentle honey sweetness often follows. There is very little pepper, so the start feels calm and smooth.

Second third

Next, the flavour gains depth without much extra strength. Toasted nuts, light coffee and a touch of cocoa are common notes. In addition, some smokers describe a buttery texture. This middle section is where the cigar’s complexity shows best.

Final third

Finally, the cigar reaches a gentle medium. Wood, leather and a little earth come forward, while the cream fades. Because the profile is subtle, a hot, fast pace can flatten it. Smoked slowly, it keeps its sweetness to the end.

How it compares

The Partagás Serie D No. 4 is the same size but much fuller and spicier. Choose the Hoyo for nuance and the Partagás for punch. In fact, many smokers keep both for different moods.

The Cohiba Robusto is also the same size. It is richer and stronger, with grassy notes the Hoyo lacks. Still, the Hoyo is far gentler on the palate and usually much less costly.

Smoking it in Malaysia

A delicate cigar loses its subtlety fast when stored badly. Keep the Epicure No. 2 at about 65–69% RH and below 24°C. If it absorbs too much moisture on a humid terrace, the cream turns muddy. Our cigar humidity guide explains the target range.

For pairing, avoid drinks that overpower it. A lightly sweet teh tarik, a milky kopi or a gentle Speyside whisky all work. Also, check our guide on where to smoke cigars in Malaysia, because Act 852 limits smoking in many places.

Verdict

The Hoyo Epicure No 2 shows that a gentle cigar can still be complex. Its cream, cedar and nut notes are refined and well balanced. Moreover, its construction is usually reliable.

On the other hand, smokers who want strength or spice may find it too soft. Young boxes can also feel slightly muted. It suits smokers who value nuance, and it is a sensible Cuban robusto for newer smokers. As always, every cigar carries health risks.