What is the Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure No.1 size and ring gauge?

The Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure No.1 measures 5 1/2 inches (140mm) in length with a 46 ring gauge, classifying it as a Corona Gorda. This vitola was discontinued in 2012 and later reintroduced in 2018 as part of Habanos S.A.'s strategy to revive classic formats. The 46 ring gauge provides a balanced draw and moderate smoke output, sitting between the thinner Epicure No.2 (50 ring gauge) and discontinued Epicure No.3.

How long does a Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure No.1 take to smoke?

Expect a smoking duration of 45 to 60 minutes, depending on your pace. The Corona Gorda format burns slower than smaller coronas due to its 46 ring gauge and 5 1/2 inch length. The construction typically yields an even burn with a firm ash. For optimal timing, pair it with an afternoon coffee or pre-dinner aperitif rather than post-meal, as the strength remains mild to medium throughout.

What flavors does the Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure No.1 have?

The Epicure No.1 delivers Hoyo de Monterrey's signature light-bodied profile with cedar, cream, and toasted bread notes dominant in the first third. Mid-smoke introduces subtle citrus peel and nutmeg, while the final third develops mild coffee bean and white pepper. Unlike heavier Hoyo offerings such as the Double Coronas, this vitola emphasizes finesse over power. Younger examples may show grassy undertones that mellow into honeyed sweetness with 3-5 years of aging.

What is the Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure No.1 size and ring gauge?

The Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure No.1 measures 5 1/2 inches (140mm) in length with a 46 ring gauge, classifying it as a Corona Gorda. This vitola was discontinued in 2012 and later reintroduced in 2018 as part of Habanos S.A.'s strategy to revive classic formats. The 46 ring gauge provides a balanced draw and moderate smoke output, sitting between the thinner Epicure No.2 (50 ring gauge) and discontinued Epicure No.3.

How long does a Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure No.1 take to smoke?

Expect a smoking duration of 45 to 60 minutes, depending on your pace. The Corona Gorda format burns slower than smaller coronas due to its 46 ring gauge and 5 1/2 inch length. The construction typically yields an even burn with a firm ash. For optimal timing, pair it with an afternoon coffee or pre-dinner aperitif rather than post-meal, as the strength remains mild to medium throughout.

What flavors does the Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure No.1 have?

The Epicure No.1 delivers Hoyo de Monterrey's signature light-bodied profile with cedar, cream, and toasted bread notes dominant in the first third. Mid-smoke introduces subtle citrus peel and nutmeg, while the final third develops mild coffee bean and white pepper. Unlike heavier Hoyo offerings such as the Double Coronas, this vitola emphasizes finesse over power. Younger examples may show grassy undertones that mellow into honeyed sweetness with 3-5 years of aging.

Cigar Information

Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure No.1

The Epicure No.1 stands as one of the most enduring offerings in the Hoyo de Monterrey portfolio, representing a classic Corona Gordas vitola that has been part of the brand's regular production lineup 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

Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure No.1 packaging

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.

Questions & Answers

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