Introduction: A Match Made in Heaven
For centuries, whiskey and cigars have been the quintessential pairing for connoisseurs. But not every cigar can stand up to the bold, complex flavors of a fine whiskey.
Enter the Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure No. 2—a Cuban cigar so perfectly balanced, it’s been crowned the #1 choice for whiskey lovers worldwide.
In this guide, you’ll learn:
Why the Epicure No. 2’s flavor profile is a whiskey-matching masterpiece
How to pair it with everything from Scotch to Bourbon
How to enter our #EpicureWhiskeyPairing contest to win a box
1. Why the Epicure No. 2 is the Ultimate Whiskey Cigar
The Flavor Profile
Wrapper: Cuban-seed colorado claro
Size: 5.1″ x 50 (Robusto Extra)
Tasting Notes: Cream, cedar, roasted nuts, white pepper, and a hint of honeyed citrus.
Why It Works with Whiskey:
Creamy Smoothness: Balances whiskey’s alcohol heat.
Medium Strength: Doesn’t overpower delicate spirits.
Complexity: Evolves alongside the whiskey’s own notes.
Construction & Burn
Burn Time: 60-75 minutes (ideal for savoring a few drams).
Draw: Consistently excellent (no relights to disrupt your tasting).
Ash: Firm and white (a sign of quality tobacco and proper aging).
2. The Science of Pairing: How It Works
Pairing isn’t just random—it’s about complementing or contrasting flavors:
| Whiskey Type | Why It Pairs Well |
|---|---|
| Scotch (Speyside) | Epicure’s honey notes complement Scotch’s fruitiness. |
| Bourbon | Cedar & pepper contrast with Bourbon’s vanilla sweetness. |
| Irish Whiskey | Creamy smoke smooths out Irish’s light spice. |
| Japanese Whisky | Subtle citrus notes harmonize with Japanese oak. |
3. Top 5 Whiskey Pairings Tested
1. Macallan 12 + Epicure No. 2
Why: Macallan’s sherry oak meets Epicure’s nuts and cream.
Result: A rich, dessert-like experience.
2. Buffalo Trace + Epicure No. 2
Why: Bourbon’s vanilla + cigar’s cedar = smoky sweetness.
Result: An affordable luxury combo.
3. Lagavulin 16 + Epicure No. 2
Why: Peaty smoke vs. creamy smoothness = bold contrast.
Result: For those who love intensity.
4. Redbreast 12 + Epicure No. 2
Why: Irish pot still spice + Epicure’s pepper = warm complexity.
Result: A winter evening staple.
5. Hibiki Harmony + Epicure No. 2
Why: Japanese harmony meets Cuban balance.
Result: The most elegant pairing on the list.
4. How to Host Your Own Pairing Night
Step 1: Prepare the Cigar
Storage: 65% RH for at least 30 days.
Cut: Straight cut for optimal draw.
Light: Use a cedar spill for a clean start.
Step 2: Choose Your Whiskey
Glass: Glencairn or tulip-shaped to concentrate aromas.
Pour: 1.5 oz, neat or with a few drops of water.
Step 3: The Tasting Method
Sip whiskey alone (note the palate).
Take 2 puffs of cigar (let smoke coat your mouth).
Sip whiskey again (see how flavors change).
Repeat as flavors evolve.
5. The #EpicureWhiskeyPairing Contest
We’re crowning the best pairing of 2024—and you could win!
How to Enter:
Pair Hoyo Epicure No. 2 with your favorite whiskey.
Post a photo on Instagram or Twitter with tasting notes.
Tag @LuxuryCubanCigars & #EpicureWhiskeyPairing.
Prizes:
1st Place: Box of Epicure No. 2 + bottle of Macallan 18.
Runners-Up: 5-packs of Epicure No. 2.
6. Epicure No. 2 vs. Other “Whiskey Cigars”
| Cigar | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Hoyo Epicure No. 2 | Balanced, creamy, versatile | Can be pricey |
| Montecristo No. 2 | Bold, coffee notes | Overpowers light whiskeys |
| Romeo y Julieta Churchill | Smooth, woody | Less complex |
| Partagás Serie D No. 4 | Spicy, full-bodied | Too strong for many whiskeys |
Verdict: Epicure No. 2 is the safest bet for most whiskey styles.
7. Where to Buy Authentic Epicure No. 2
La Casa del Habano (Havana or authorized dealers).
Trusted Online Retailers (check for box codes).
Red Flags:
❌ Wrapper feels dry or sandy
❌ Band is misaligned or blurry
❌ Price seems too good to be true
Ready to pair? Shop Hoyo Epicure No. 2 Here.
Comment below with your favorite whiskey pairing—we might feature it! 🥃🚬