Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure No. 2 Review: A Smoke Worth Savoring

Brand: Hoyo de Monterrey

Line: Epicure

Size: Length 4.9 inches, Ring Gauge 50

Wrapper: Cuban

Binder: Cuban

Filler: Cuban

Strength: Medium

Price: £641 for a box of 25 cigars

The Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure No. 2 is my go-to when I’m in the mood for a balanced and smooth smoke. Its medium strength and rich Cuban flavors make it an easy favorite. Let’s explore it together!

Look & Feel: 18/20

When I first picked up the Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure No. 2, I immediately noticed the smoothness of the wrapper, with its light brown color and minimal veins. 

The construction felt solid in my hand, with no soft spots and a classic look that made me eager to light it up.

Pre-Light: 19/20

The pre-light aroma hit me with an earthy, sweet scent, hinting at a rich smoking experience ahead. The draw was just right—not too tight or too loose—letting me taste subtle notes of wood and cream even before lighting it. It was a great start and got me excited for what was to come.

Burn: 17/20

The burn was one of the best I’ve had in a while—razor-sharp and even throughout the entire smoke. I barely had to touch it up, and the ash held on impressively, adding to the overall enjoyment. A well-constructed cigar like this one makes the whole experience so much smoother.

Flavor: 20/20

Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure No. 2 brings an exquisite and captivating flavor journey, delivering a harmonious balance from start to finish.

1. First Third (0-20 minutes):

The cigar opens smoothly with a delightful blend of creamy cedar and a subtle hint of toasted almonds. Each puff unveils a gentle spice, warming the palate without overpowering the creamy undertones. As the smoke fills the mouth, a trace of sweet vanilla emerges, lending a refined softness to the experience. The retrohale introduces a faint, grassy freshness that enhances the overall profile.

2. Second Third (20-40 minutes):

In the middle section, the flavors deepen, bringing forward warm notes of buttery caramel and mild roasted coffee. The spice mellows here, allowing a delicate nuttiness to shine. There's a newfound complexity with whispers of baking spices, like cinnamon and clove, which pair elegantly with the cigar's inherently creamy body. This section feels richer and more layered, creating an experience that coats the palate beautifully.

3. Final Third (40-60 minutes):

The final stretch reveals a pleasingly smooth and rounded profile. Hints of dark cocoa begin to surface, intertwined with earthy notes and a mild sweetness that evokes dried fruit. The cedar and spice return with subtle prominence, providing a balanced finish with just the right amount of warmth and depth. Through the retrohale, the cigar leaves a lingering touch of spice and wood, closing the experience with an unforgettable, complex finish.

Overall Experience: 19/20

The Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure No. 2 delivered everything I hoped for—smooth, balanced flavors, excellent construction, and a relaxing smoking experience. 

Whether I’m enjoying it with coffee or on its own, this cigar consistently impresses me. It’s definitely one I’ll be coming back to time and time again.

Comparative Analysis

Here’s a side-by-side comparison of cigars I’ve tried and loved. I’ve focused on the key elements—strength, flavor, and construction—that matter most to me when choosing the right smoke.

As you can see, each cigar offers something unique, whether it’s the creamy richness of a Montecristo or the bold intensity of a Cohiba. Whether you prefer a rich, full-bodied cigar or something a bit lighter and smoother, this table breaks down what makes each one special and should help you find the perfect choice for any occasion.

Pairings

I’ve found that the Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure No. 2 pairs exceptionally well with a few classic choices.

• Milk Chocolate: The light, creamy notes of milk chocolate perfectly enhance the cigar's smooth, floral flavors.
• Aged Cognac: The richness of aged cognac pairs well with the cigar’s medium strength, balancing its subtle spice and floral notes. 
• Espresso: A strong espresso brings out the cigar’s woody and creamy undertones, adding a layer of depth to the experience.

My Verdict

I’d give the Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure No. 2 a 93/100. Its balance of light sweetness, floral notes, and impeccable construction makes it a cigar that consistently impresses. The draw is smooth from start to finish, with each puff revealing subtle layers of flavor that never overpower the palate. 

I love how the cigar develops as I smoke, starting with creamy, light notes and gradually offering hints of spice and woodiness. It’s the kind of cigar I turn to when I want something reliable yet full of character.

For me, it’s perfect for any time of day, whether I’m enjoying it with my morning coffee or winding down in the evening with a glass of cognac. If you’re looking for a medium-bodied smoke that offers complexity without being too bold, this is one you’ll definitely want to keep in your humidor. It’s a cigar I’ll come back to time and time again.

James Peasley

James started out in the cigar industry in 2009, working for the leading cigar specialist in the UK for nearly a decade, slowly crafting his deep knowledge of cigars and developing a very refined palate. There's not many Cuban cigars he hasn't tasted, including Limited Edition Habanos and pre-embargo Davidoffs, as well as a large section of the New World offerings. When away from his desk he's usually found out walking in the countryside, or following other hot pursuits.