Montecristo Epic Robusto

The Montecristo Epic is the fullest-bodied cigar in the non-Cuban Montecristo portfolio, blended by Altadis's Grupo de Maestros around well-aged tobaccos. This is the Robusto, 5 inches by a 52 ring gauge, and it's built for smokers who want serious intensity from the Montecristo name.

What it tastes like

An Ecuadorian Habano wrapper sits over a Nicaraguan binder and a Nicaraguan and Dominican filler, some of it aged for years. The result is a full-bodied, flavor-packed smoke: black pepper, cocoa, espresso, earth, and a nutty sweetness, all clean and surprisingly refined for its strength. It's the boldest, most powerful Montecristo Altadis makes.

Who it's for

The Epic is for experienced smokers who like a full cigar and want depth and power. It's best after a meal, not first thing in the morning, and it pairs well with an espresso or a bourbon.

If you find it too strong, the Montecristo Classic Toro is a smooth, medium step down. For where the Epic sits on the intensity scale, our cigar strength guide is worth a read — and you can log and rate it in the Casa DNC app.