Hoyo de Monterrey Le Hoyo du Prince
The Le Hoyo du Prince represented one of the historic vitolas in the Hoyo de Monterrey portfolio, serving as a regular production cigar for decades before its eventual discontinuation in 2017. With origins tracing back to the pre-1960 era, this cigar carried the factory name "Almuerzos" and embodied the classic Cuban cigar-making tradition that defined the brand's reputation among discerning smokers.
Specifications
| Cigar Name | Le Hoyo du Prince |
| Factory Name | Almuerzos |
| Ring Gauge | 40 |
| Length | 130 mm (5⅛″) |
| Official Weight | 7.52 g |
| Construction | Handmade |
| Status | Discontinued (2017) |
Packaging and Presentation
Throughout its production history, the Le Hoyo du Prince was offered in several packaging configurations. The most enduring format was the slide lid box containing 25 cigars, which remained in production until the vitola's discontinuation in 2017. Earlier packaging options included a cardboard pack of five cigars and a slide lid box of 50 cigars, both of which were phased out in 2006. A cajón containing 100 cigars was available during the cigar's early years but was discontinued prior to the 1960s.
The banding of the Le Hoyo du Prince evolved over time. Slide lid boxes initially contained cigars without bands prior to approximately 2005, after which Standard Band E was applied. The five-packs featured Standard Band B, with some uncertainty regarding whether Band E was also used.
Flavor Profile and Tasting Notes
Based on 38 enthusiast reviews, the Le Hoyo du Prince earned solid ratings across multiple categories. The cigar scored particularly well for balance and aftertaste, both receiving 4 out of 5 points. Overall impression landed at 4 out of 5, with elegance, strength, and complexity each earning 3 out of 5 points.
The flavor profile of this discontinued vitola showcased the characteristic elegance associated with Hoyo de Monterrey. Tasting notes most frequently reported by reviewers included:
- Primary Notes: Cedar (27 mentions), Cream (23 mentions), Vanilla (19 mentions)
- Secondary Notes: Spice (16 mentions), Wood (12 mentions), Cocoa (10 mentions)
- Undertones: Forest Floor (9 mentions), Mushroom (7 mentions), Earth (6 mentions), Oak (4 mentions)
- Occasional Notes: Cinnamon, Citrus Peel, and Coffee (3 mentions each)
Additional flavors reported by individual reviewers included baking spice, bitter chocolate, clove, licorice, and various other nuances ranging from anise to shortbread, demonstrating the cigar's capacity for subtle complexity.
Historical Significance
The Le Hoyo du Prince enjoyed a remarkable production span of nearly six decades. Originally released prior to 1960, this vitola represented an era when thinner ring gauges were the standard for premium Cuban cigars. Its discontinuation in 2017 marked the end of an important chapter in the Hoyo de Monterrey story, making remaining stocks highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts who appreciated its classic proportions and refined smoking experience.
Related Release
A special edition of this vitola was created for the Hoyo de Monterrey Le Hoyo Du Prince Siglo XXI Millennium Humidor, representing a commemorative interpretation of this classic format.