One of the most enduring offerings in the Hoyo de Monterrey portfolio, the Epicure No.1 is a classic Corona Gordas vitola in regular production since before 1960. This cigar embodies the elegant, approachable character that has made Hoyo de Monterrey a favorite among enthusiasts seeking refined smoking experiences.
Technical Specifications
| Vitola Name | Epicure No.1 |
| Factory Name | Coronas Gordas |
| Ring Gauge | 46 |
| Length | 143 mm (5⅝″) |
| Official Weight | 11.41 g |
| Construction | Handmade |
| Status | Current Regular Production |
Band History and Presentation
The Epicure No.1's visual presentation has evolved over the decades. Prior to approximately 2005, this cigar was sold without any band at all. Around 2005, the standard Hoyo de Monterrey band E was introduced. A significant enhancement came in 2008, when a special secondary band bearing the Epicure No.1 designation was added, giving the cigar its distinctive modern appearance.
Packaging Options
Throughout its production history, the Epicure No.1 has been offered in several presentation formats:
- Slide Lid Box of 25 cigars — Current production
- Display Box of 15 aluminium tubed cigars — Arranged in 5 cardboard packs of 3; introduced circa 2011
- Display Box of 15 cigars — Packaged in 5 cardboard packs of 3; released circa 2003, discontinued in 2011
- Slide Lid Box of 50 cigars — Discontinued in 2010
An interesting note regarding the display box of 15 cigars in cardboard packs: although officially discontinued in 2011, a limited batch was reportedly produced in 2022 for reasons that remain unclear. Despite this anomalous production run, the packaging format does not appear on current official catalogues.
Flavor Profile and Tasting Notes
The Epicure No.1 delivers a medium-bodied experience characterized by elegance and balance. Based on 56 user reviews, the cigar earns consistent mid-range scores across all evaluated attributes, with an overall rating of 3.66 out of 5.
| Elegance | 3/5 |
| Balance | 3/5 |
| Strength | 3/5 |
| Complexity | 3/5 |
| Aftertaste | 3/5 |
| Overall Rating | 3.66/5 |
The flavor profile is defined by creamy textures and woody undertones, with the following tasting notes reported by reviewers:
- Primary Notes: Cream (25 mentions), Cedar (11), Cocoa (11), Vanilla (9), Wood (9)
- Secondary Notes: Raspberry (6), Stonefruit (6), Chocolate (3), Citrus (3), Dried Berry (3), Floral (3), Fruit (3), Twangy Stone Fruit (3)
- Occasional Notes: Berry (2), Earth (2), Spice (2), Sweetness (2), Toast (2), Tobacco (2)
- Rare Notes: Baking Spice (1), Berries (1), Coffee (1), Graham Cracker (1), Hay (1), Marshmallow (1), Pepper (1), Twang (1)
Related Special Releases
The Epicure No.1 vitola has been selected for prestigious limited edition presentations:
- Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure No.1 Siglo XXI Millennium Humidor
- Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure No.1 510 Aniversario Humidor
These special releases underscore the significance of this particular vitola within the Hoyo de Monterrey brand heritage, representing milestones commemorated through specially commissioned humidors.