Hoyo de Monterrey · Epicure
CubanEverydayHoyo de Monterrey Epicure Especial
A longer, richer take on the Epicure robusto — a 5.5 x 50 Robusto Extra with heavier cocoa and espresso notes than its smaller siblings.
The short answer
The Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure Especial is a balanced, medium-bodied smoke — a Cuban robusto extra with a Cuban wrapper. Expect cedar, cocoa, and espresso.
The verdict
The Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure Especial is a balanced, medium-bodied smoke from Hoyo de Monterrey's Epicure line. It's a Cuban robusto extra wrapped in Cuban at 5.5 in × 50.
On the palate, expect cedar, cocoa, and espresso, leaning earthy. Plan on roughly 60 minutes from light to nub.
It pairs naturally with espresso, aged rum, and dark chocolate. If you're newer to cigars, this is a safe, enjoyable pick.
Added to the Epicure family in 2008, the Epicure Especial is essentially a stretched, beefier robusto — a Robusto Extra at 5.5 x 50. Same line, more cigar: the extra length lets the blend develop, and it leans a touch richer and darker than the No. 2 while still being recognizably Hoyo.
What it tastes like
You get the creamy Hoyo backbone, but with more weight behind it — cocoa, espresso, cedar, and a refined floral-spice edge that emerges as it burns. It's a well-balanced medium that delivers plenty of smoke over roughly 80 to 90 minutes, with the brand's typical excellent construction and toothy wrapper.
Who it's for
The Especial is a great pick when you want the Epicure character but with a longer, more indulgent smoke. It suits everyday smokers who like a fuller robusto. Curious how Cuba's restrained richness compares to Nicaragua's punch? See Cuban vs Nicaraguan.
Buy from a trusted source — the Epicure line is heavily counterfeited — and give it humidor time. Rate the boxes you love in the Casa DNC app.
Curious how it stacks up? See Cuban vs Nicaraguan cigars.
Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure Especial — frequently asked
- Is the Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure Especial a good cigar for beginners?
- It's a good next step. Medium-bodied cigars are fine once you've enjoyed a few milder ones and want more flavor and depth.
- How strong is the Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure Especial?
- The Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure Especial is Medium-bodied. Strength is about body and nicotine rather than flavor, so eat something first and take it slow if you're sensitive.
- What does the Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure Especial taste like?
- Expect cedar, cocoa, and espresso, leaning earthy. Tasting notes are a guide — your palate may pick up more or less.
- What pairs well with the Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure Especial?
- It pairs well with espresso, aged rum, and dark chocolate. As a rule, match the drink's intensity to the cigar's medium body.
- How long does it take to smoke the Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure Especial?
- Plan on about 60 minutes for the robusto extra — longer if you smoke slowly, which keeps it cool and tasting its best.
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Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure Especial head-to-head
See how Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure Especial stacks up against similar cigars — strength, flavor, and ratings.