Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure #2 (2008 Vintage) Review

• Brand: Hoyo de Monterrey
• Length: 4 7/8 inches
• Ring Gauge: 50
• Score: 3.25/5

Origin and Format

The Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure #2 (2008 Vintage) is from Cuba and has a Robusto format. It's hand - made with a box code of EPP OCT 08. A box of 25 costs about $400.

Appearance

Typical of HDM, the cigar is presented pleasingly. There were minimal spines, and the end clipped easily without wrapper separation. An earthy aroma came from the box, and no loose tobacco was in it. The 8 - year - old cigars were ready to enjoy.

Construction

Lighting was easy, producing white smoke. However, many cigars in the box had uneven burning issues that were hard to correct. There was no gopher holing, but a 1 - 2 centimeter differential in burn was common.

Flavor

• One third: Earthy and woody notes start strongly.
• Two thirds: The earthy and woody flavors persist.
• Three thirds: The same earthy and woody taste continues.

The lack of a tight draw makes it easy to experience the robusto effect.

Value

The price is a bit high at around $15 per cigar, but the taste almost justifies it.

Among all the Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure #2 releases, the 2008 is the most consistently enjoyable. It's not too hard, not too green, and has few burn issues.