What is the history of the H. Upmann Epicures?

The H. Upmann Epicures is a long-standing vitola from the historic H. Upmann brand, with roots tracing back to before 1960. Originally produced as a machine-made or hand-finished cigar, it transitioned to fully handmade production in 2002. This shift elevated its status among connoisseurs. It remains a staple in the brand's portfolio, offering a classic Cuban smoking experience in a petit corona format that reflects the brand's centuries-old heritage.

What are the flavor notes of H. Upmann Epicures?

As a petit corona measuring 110mm in length with a 35 ring gauge, the Epicures typically delivers a medium-bodied flavor profile characteristic of the brand. Smokers can expect distinct notes of earth, cedar, and dried fruit, often accompanied by a signature grassy or hay-like quality on the palate. The blend provides a nuanced yet approachable smoke, making it a favored choice for those seeking traditional Cuban flavor without overwhelming strength.

Is H. Upmann Epicures worth the money?

For enthusiasts seeking traditional Cuban flavor in a shorter format, the Epicures represents solid value. Its transition to handmade production significantly improved its construction and draw consistency. While it offers a shorter smoking time of roughly 30 to 45 minutes, the complexity found in this petit corona rivals larger formats. It serves as an ideal morning smoke or a convenient option for aficionados who want a high-quality Cuban cigar without the time commitment of a double corona.

What is the history of the H. Upmann Epicures?

The H. Upmann Epicures is a long-standing vitola from the historic H. Upmann brand, with roots tracing back to before 1960. Originally produced as a machine-made or hand-finished cigar, it transitioned to fully handmade production in 2002. This shift elevated its status among connoisseurs. It remains a staple in the brand's portfolio, offering a classic Cuban smoking experience in a petit corona format that reflects the brand's centuries-old heritage.

What are the flavor notes of H. Upmann Epicures?

As a petit corona measuring 110mm in length with a 35 ring gauge, the Epicures typically delivers a medium-bodied flavor profile characteristic of the brand. Smokers can expect distinct notes of earth, cedar, and dried fruit, often accompanied by a signature grassy or hay-like quality on the palate. The blend provides a nuanced yet approachable smoke, making it a favored choice for those seeking traditional Cuban flavor without overwhelming strength.

Is H. Upmann Epicures worth the money?

For enthusiasts seeking traditional Cuban flavor in a shorter format, the Epicures represents solid value. Its transition to handmade production significantly improved its construction and draw consistency. While it offers a shorter smoking time of roughly 30 to 45 minutes, the complexity found in this petit corona rivals larger formats. It serves as an ideal morning smoke or a convenient option for aficionados who want a high-quality Cuban cigar without the time commitment of a double corona.

Cigar Information

H. Upmann Epicures

The H. Upmann Epicures represents one of the most enduring offerings from the prestigious H. Upmann brand, with roots tracing back to before 1960. This petit corona-sized cigar has undergone a significant transformation in its production history, transitioning from machine-made construction to fully handmade craftsmanship around 2003. Today, it stands as a current regular production cigar that showcases the brand's commitment to accessible yet quality smoking experiences.

Specifications

Factory Name	Epicures
Ring Gauge	35
Length	110 mm (4⅜″)
Official Weight	4.81 g
Construction	Handmade
Bands	Standard band B, C
Status	Current Regular Production
Release Date	Pre-1960

Packaging

The Epicures is presented in dress boxes containing 25 cigars. Historically, the brand also offered these cigars individually wrapped in cellophane within the dress box format, though this packaging option was discontinued around 2002.

Production History

One of the most notable aspects of the Epicures is its production evolution. For decades, this cigar was produced using machine-made methods, a common practice for smaller ring gauge cigars during much of the twentieth century. However, around 2003, Habanos S.A. made the decision to transition the Epicures to fully handmade production, elevating its status and aligning it with the craftsmanship standards expected of premium Cuban cigars.

Flavor Profile and Tasting Notes

Based on consumer reviews, the H. Upmann Epicures delivers a medium-bodied smoking experience characterized by classic Cuban tobacco flavors. The most prominent notes identified by smokers include:

Coffee – Rich, roasted undertones
Pepper – Subtle spicy accents
Shortbread – Buttery, biscuit-like sweetness
Citrus – Bright, zesty highlights
Grass – Fresh, vegetal qualities
Herbal – Aromatic, earthy notes
Leather – Deep, savory richness
Mint – Cool, refreshing touches
Tobacco – Pure, natural leaf character
Wood – Cedar and dried wood nuances

Consumer Ratings

Aggregated from 12 reviews, the Epicures receives consistent middle-of-the-road scores across all evaluated categories:

Elegance	3.0 / 5
Balance	3.0 / 5
Strength	3.0 / 5
Complexity	3.0 / 5
Aftertaste	3.0 / 5
Overall Rating	3.67 / 5

These ratings suggest a cigar that delivers a balanced, moderately complex experience without overwhelming the palate. The slightly higher overall score indicates that while individual attributes rate as average, the complete smoking experience comes together harmoniously.

The Smoking Experience

With its slender 35 ring gauge and compact 4⅜-inch length, the Epicures offers a relatively quick smoke duration, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a quality Cuban cigar without the time commitment of larger formats. The transition to handmade production has allowed for greater attention to construction quality, draw consistency, and burn characteristics that discerning smokers expect from the H. Upmann marque.

Questions & Answers

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