Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure No. 1

(Comparison Photo With An Epi 2)

Name: Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure No. 1
Vitola: Corona Gorda
Size: 143mm (5 5/8 in)
Ring: 46
Weight: 11.41 gr.

Appearance: This was a beautiful cigar, as I expect Hoyo's to be. No visible veins or soft spots, just a pretty light cinnamon brown wrapper, that both looked and smelled amazing. A cigar that begs to be smoked.

Pre-Light: The wrapper on this cigar was wonderfully fragrant. Notes of earthiness and sweet, pungent spices wafted to my olfactory glands. Cinnamon and nutmeg. Delicious. When I finally got around to it, the clip was easy, and the pre light draw was perfect. The same notes that I smelled in the wrapper transferred through magnificently to the palate

Burn/Draw: Like most of the Hoyos I have smoked, the construction was generally spot on. The burn wandered just a little bit at the beginning, but after a simple self correction, there was never another issue again, burning straight and even. The draw offered just a bit of resistance while still allowing more than acceptable amounts of smoke. the ash was mottled and firm.

Flavors: This was a very pleasant cigar. On the light side of medium in body and strength, it offered flavors that compliment this level of power quite nicely. It has toned down notes similar to the Epicure No. 2 (tangy tobacco and earthyness, cinnamon and peppery spice), while adding some light floral notes playing around on top. This cigar was also sweeter, with earthy molasses notes playing out. This is a great counterpoint to the Epi 2 (probably my favorite Habano to date) and a great addition to the Hoyo line. Recommended for those who like their Hoyos with a more ethereal quality.

TomC