Hoyo de Monterrey · Epicure
CubanEverydayHoyo de Monterrey Epicure No. 2
The benchmark Cuban robusto — smooth, creamy and endlessly drinkable. One of Havana's most reliably enjoyable everyday smokes.
The short answer
The Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure No. 2 is a balanced, medium-bodied smoke — a Cuban robusto with a Cuban wrapper. Expect cedar, cream, and toast. Critics rate it 93/100.
Critic ratings
Cigar Aficionado
2016
93/100
Scores as published by each reviewer. Casa DNC aggregates third-party ratings; we don't score cigars ourselves.
The verdict
The Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure No. 2 is a balanced, medium-bodied smoke from Hoyo de Monterrey's Epicure line. It's a Cuban robusto wrapped in Cuban at 4.9 in × 50.
On the palate, expect cedar, cream, and toast, leaning earthy. Plan on roughly 55 minutes from light to nub.
It's well regarded: Cigar Aficionado rated it 93/100 in 2016. It pairs naturally with espresso, aged rum, and coffee. If you're newer to cigars, this is a safe, enjoyable pick.
If there's a single Cuban robusto to know, it's this one. The Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure No. 2 is a 4.9 x 50 Robusto that built its reputation on being effortlessly smooth and beautifully balanced — never heavy, never boring. It's one of the most consistently praised cigars in the whole Cuban catalogue, and a cigar plenty of aficionados keep on hand by the box.
What it tastes like
This is classic Hoyo: a creamy, cedary core with gentle toast, a little light coffee, and soft floral and pepper notes that keep it interesting. It sits firmly in the medium range — flavorful and refined without ever turning into a chore. Construction is usually excellent, with a cool draw and an easy hour of smoking time.
Who it's for
The Epicure No. 2 works for almost everyone. It's approachable enough that a relative newcomer can enjoy it, yet nuanced enough to keep an experienced smoker happy. If you're weighing Cuba's elegance against Nicaragua's bolder style, the Cuban vs Nicaraguan breakdown is a good read.
Because it's so popular, it's also widely faked — buy from a trusted source and let it rest. When you find a box that sings, log it in your humidor with the Casa DNC app so you can find it again.
Curious how it stacks up? See Cuban vs Nicaraguan cigars.
Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure No. 2 — frequently asked
- Is the Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure No. 2 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 No. 2?
- The Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure No. 2 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 No. 2 taste like?
- Expect cedar, cream, and toast, leaning earthy. Tasting notes are a guide — your palate may pick up more or less.
- What is the Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure No. 2's rating?
- Published critic scores: Cigar Aficionado 93/100 (2016). Casa DNC aggregates third-party ratings and doesn't score cigars itself.
- What pairs well with the Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure No. 2?
- It pairs well with espresso, aged rum, and coffee. 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 No. 2?
- Plan on about 55 minutes for the robusto — longer if you smoke slowly, which keeps it cool and tasting its best.
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Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure No. 2 head-to-head
See how Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure No. 2 stacks up against similar cigars — strength, flavor, and ratings.