When was the Hoyo de Monterrey Le Hoyo du Dauphin discontinued?

The Hoyo de Monterrey Le Hoyo du Dauphin was officially discontinued in 2005. This specific vitola enjoyed a production run spanning over three decades before its removal from the standard Habanos portfolio. It was part of the original Le Hoyo series, which was introduced to offer distinct flavor profiles compared to the standard Hoyo de Monterrey line. While the cigar is no longer produced, it remains a sought-after item in the secondary market, with well-preserved boxes appearing occasionally at auction for collectors seeking aged Cuban tobacco.

What are the dimensions of the Le Hoyo du Dauphin cigar?

The Le Hoyo du Dauphin measures 5 1/8 inches (130 mm) in length with a ring gauge of 52, placing it squarely in the Robusto category. This format was somewhat unique within the Hoyo portfolio at the time, offering a thicker gauge than many traditional Hoyos. The dimensions allow for a slightly cooler smoke compared to thinner vitolas, providing a draw that accentuates the brand's characteristic grassy and bean flavors while maintaining a manageable smoking time of roughly 45 to 60 minutes.

How does the Le Hoyo du Dauphin compare to the Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure No. 2?

While both cigars share the Robusto format and the Hoyo de Monterrey brand DNA, the Le Hoyo du Dauphin offers a distinct flavor profile compared to the Epicure No. 2. The Le Hoyo series generally features a darker, richer blend with more pronounced earthy and mineral notes, whereas the Epicure No. 2 is known for a creamier, lighter profile with distinct grass and cedar characteristics. Enthusiasts often note that the Dauphin provides a more robust and spicy smoking experience, making it a preferred choice for those seeking intensity over elegance.

When was the Hoyo de Monterrey Le Hoyo du Dauphin discontinued?

The Hoyo de Monterrey Le Hoyo du Dauphin was officially discontinued in 2005. This specific vitola enjoyed a production run spanning over three decades before its removal from the standard Habanos portfolio. It was part of the original Le Hoyo series, which was introduced to offer distinct flavor profiles compared to the standard Hoyo de Monterrey line. While the cigar is no longer produced, it remains a sought-after item in the secondary market, with well-preserved boxes appearing occasionally at auction for collectors seeking aged Cuban tobacco.

What are the dimensions of the Le Hoyo du Dauphin cigar?

The Le Hoyo du Dauphin measures 5 1/8 inches (130 mm) in length with a ring gauge of 52, placing it squarely in the Robusto category. This format was somewhat unique within the Hoyo portfolio at the time, offering a thicker gauge than many traditional Hoyos. The dimensions allow for a slightly cooler smoke compared to thinner vitolas, providing a draw that accentuates the brand's characteristic grassy and bean flavors while maintaining a manageable smoking time of roughly 45 to 60 minutes.

How does the Le Hoyo du Dauphin compare to the Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure No. 2?

While both cigars share the Robusto format and the Hoyo de Monterrey brand DNA, the Le Hoyo du Dauphin offers a distinct flavor profile compared to the Epicure No. 2. The Le Hoyo series generally features a darker, richer blend with more pronounced earthy and mineral notes, whereas the Epicure No. 2 is known for a creamier, lighter profile with distinct grass and cedar characteristics. Enthusiasts often note that the Dauphin provides a more robust and spicy smoking experience, making it a preferred choice for those seeking intensity over elegance.

Cigar Information

Hoyo de Monterrey Le Hoyo du Dauphin

The Le Hoyo du Dauphin represents a fascinating chapter in Cuban cigar history, belonging to the prestigious Hoyo de Monterrey marque. This cigar enjoyed a production run spanning over three decades before its eventual discontinuation, leaving behind a legacy appreciated by collectors and enthusiasts alike.

History and Background

Introduced to the market in 1969, the Le Hoyo du Dauphin remained in regular production until its discontinuation in 2003. During its production lifespan, the cigar was presented without bands, maintaining a traditional and understated appearance that reflected the classic Cuban cigar aesthetic of its era.

The cigar was known within the factory by the name Laguito No.2, following the Cuban convention of assigning internal designations to different vitolas.

Specifications

Attribute	Details
Factory Name	Laguito No.2
Ring Gauge	38
Length	152 mm (6 inches)
Official Weight	8.15 grams
Construction	Handmade
Bands	No bands
Release Year	1969
Status	Discontinued (2003)

Packaging

The Le Hoyo du Dauphin was offered in two presentation formats throughout its production:

Slide lid box containing 50 cigars (this format was discontinued prior to 2003)
Slide lid box containing 25 cigars

Flavor Profile and Tasting Notes

Based on 11 recorded reviews, the Le Hoyo du Dauphin earned an impressive overall rating of 4.55 out of 5, demonstrating consistent appeal among cigar aficionados. The cigar exhibited notable elegance and complexity, both scoring 4 out of 5, while maintaining a medium strength profile rated at 3 out of 5.

The flavor composition revealed a sophisticated blend of characteristics:

Primary Notes: Cream and fruit emerged as the most prominent flavors, each noted in 4 reviews
Secondary Notes: Melon and vanilla appeared in 3 reviews each
Tertiary Notes: Cedar, floral elements, forest floor, leather, mastic, spice, and wood were each mentioned in 2 reviews
Occasional Notes: Bubblegum, clove, coffee, mushroom, rhubarb, sweet herbs, tarragon, and watermelon each appeared in single reviews

Rating Breakdown

Category	Score (out of 5)
Elegance	4
Balance	4
Strength	3
Complexity	4
Aftertaste	4
Overall	4.55

With its balanced profile and elegant delivery, the Le Hoyo du Dauphin exemplified the refined character associated with the Hoyo de Monterrey brand. Though no longer in production, it remains a sought-after specimen for collectors seeking to experience a piece of Cuban cigar heritage.

Questions & Answers

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