Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure #2

[Rushman]

tonight i smoked one of my go-to sticks, the epi 2. not sure why, but this cigar is so under rated - on the poll of top 12 cigars czar sells, i only saw it on 2-3 of the repolies. No box code as this was one of two singles we had left.

The cigar had some construction issues, but they werent due to a poorly made cigar, but to heavy handed customers mishandling the merchandise.

At cold, the draw was barnyard and very nice. I got through the first third quickly, and finally tasted (i think) what Smithy and Rob refer to as "milk coffee". Until recently, I didnt really know what that is - maybe i still dont. Here in mexico, cafe con leche is very prominent, and is essentially a cup full of hot milk and one teaspoon of instant coffee. Its not a fave ofmine, but i definitely tasted a milky coffee kind f taste reminiscent to cafe con leche.

The second third was very peppery spicy, but smooth. The ash burned consisently, and held on or an inch or so before falling off. I nubbed this cigar til my fingers burned, and in the end, a bit of that milk coffee returned, but was understated against the peppery taste. The cigar was dead on medium towards the end.

Enjoy some pics - sorry i got my ugly feet in some of them, but i had them propped up enjoying the people watching.

Smoking this cigar reminds me about what i like about HdM -not as bold as I typically like,but what a fantastic smoke it was.

[CaptainQuintero]

I agree and only just tried them recently, loved the first half which was all fruit and cream and then the final third chaning into milky coffee/chocolate and biscuit. I'd bet with five plus years on them they are fantastic.

[Wil]

Great review - thanks. I enjoyed my first Hoyo Epi 2 last weekend and really enjoyed it too. Mine had more of a musky/woody/spice thing going on. The aroma of the smoke was intoxicating! Will definitely be adding it to the rotation.

[MrGlass]

This cigar was responsible for my first Cigar Nirvana moment. It will always hold a special place in my heart for that.

[Habanos2000]

Used to be one of my main go-to cigars, about 10 years ago. But since then I've found so many cigars that I so much prefer more, like Upmann M46, Punch PC, Bolivar PC. I just don't have time to revisite the Hoyo line. Maybe one day...

[Rushman]

maybe next time I will attach the pics in the correct order - kinda like knowing the punch line before the joke gets started - sheesh

[TonyV]

I always have a box of epi2 's in the humidor. While some sticks can be mediocre,when they're on the mark always a memorable smoke.Nice review.

[ZinZan]

This cigar was responsible for my first Cigar Nirvana moment. It will always hold a special place in my heart for that.

Same here, but I've never had a repeat of that moment with the epi 2.

[sharks]

This cigar was my first venture into the world of Cigars

Today just received a box of HDM Epicure #2 and the aroma on opening was fantastic.

Will put to sleep for abit and hopefully fond memories from an old friend sometime soon..

Sharks

[MrGlass]

Same here, but I've never had a repeat of that moment with the epi 2.

I had it repeat itself, once, from a different box even. But that's it.

I've always been meaning to lay one down for a few years and see how she goes. One day I'll get around to it.

[Tuck]

One of my old faves, I just ordered a box and look forward to reacquainting myself with this wonderful stick.

[kcheek]

Love the Hoyo E2!

[kevinfj]

Same as MrGlass. The entire Hoyo brand (?marque) is my reason for being here. I cannot think of a more versatile line. Consistent construction, always smooth. Good with any drink.

FJ

[adic88]

Not that the Epi 2 isn't good, but it suffers the same fate of the PSD4, which is inconsistency. In recent years the Epi2 and the PSD4 have been massively produced, perhaps even over-produced due to their demand.

Every once in a while you'll get a blinder of a good stick, but those days are too few and far in between to deserve the label of "greatness" anymore.

[El Presidente]

One of my go to cigars. I find time for one at least once a week.

Aiz is right in terms of inconsistency. There are shipments I only oick a few boxes from. Still there are times when the moon and stars align. When the wrapper has that sheen, construction spot on and the aroma of the box at cold explodes with sweet barnyard and cedar. those are the HDM Epi 2 you want to have.

[Pilgrims]

Really like epi 2's but totally agree regarding the inconsistancy...wrapper seem to vary so much, used to love the unbanded days...marginally prefer the epi1 now but smoke the epi2 quite often. Cheers for the review...