Juan López Epicures
The Juan López Epicures represents a fascinating chapter in Cuban cigar history—a vitola that emerged before 1960 and eventually ceased production during the 1970s. This discontinued regular production cigar offers collectors and enthusiasts a glimpse into the earlier days of the Juan López brand, which has long been respected among Habanos aficionados for its consistent quality and approachable flavor profile.
Historical Context
As a pre-1960 release, the Epicures debuted during a transformative period for Cuban cigars. The Juan López brand itself dates back to the 1870s, and this particular vitola was part of the brand's regular production lineup for roughly two decades before being discontinued. The 1970s marked the end of this cigar's run, making surviving specimens highly sought after by collectors of vintage Cuban cigars.
Specifications
| Vitola Name | Epicures |
| Factory Name | Media Coronas |
| Ring Gauge | 38 |
| Length | 142 mm (5⅝″) |
| Official Weight | 7.27 g |
| Construction | Handmade |
| Band | Standard band A |
| Packaging | Dress box of 25 cigars |
| Status | Discontinued |
| Release Period | Pre-1960 |
| Discontinued | 1970s |
Vitola Characteristics
The Media Coronas factory name indicates this cigar's position within the traditional Cuban size hierarchy. With a ring gauge of 38 and a length of 5⅝ inches, the Epicures offered a moderately slender profile with substantial smoking time. This dimension places it comfortably within the classic cigar proportions favored during mid-century production, before the trend toward thicker ring gauges emerged in later decades.
Construction and Presentation
As a fully handmade cigar, the Epicures reflected the traditional Cuban craftsmanship that defined Juan López as a brand. The standard band A designation indicates it carried the classic Juan López band design that collectors will recognize from other vitolas in the brand's portfolio. Each dress box contained 25 cigars, presented in the elegant packaging typical of the era's premium Cuban releases.
Collectibility
Given its discontinuation in the 1970s after approximately two decades of production, the Juan López Epicures has become a notable entry for vintage cigar collectors. While not as commonly encountered as some other discontinued Cuban cigars, it represents an important piece of the Juan López brand heritage and offers insight into the size preferences and production standards of mid-20th century Havana.