Is the H. Upmann Super Magnum Edicion 2020 Book Worth the Hype (and Your Money)?
Look, I’ll be straight with you from the jump – when I first heard about this release, I rolled my eyes a bit. Another limited edition, another fancy presentation, another excuse to jack up prices. But after spending some serious time with these cigars over the past few months, I’ve got to eat some crow here.
The H. Upmann Super Magnum Edicion 2020 came in a presentation that honestly made me feel a little ridiculous opening it. We’re talking about a hardcover book format (hence the “Book” in the name) that houses ten 54 x 160mm cigars. When my buddy Carlos first showed me his, I thought we were looking at some coffee table book about cigars. Nope – crack it open and there are your smokes, nestled like precious artifacts.
Now, before we get into the meat of this review, let’s talk reality for a second. These aren’t cheap. We’re firmly in upmann investments territory here – the kind of purchase you think about for a while, maybe even discuss with your significant other if you’re smart. But sometimes… sometimes a cigar comes along that justifies the premium.
First Light: What Hit Me Right Away
The construction on these is gorgeous. I mean, really gorgeous. The wrapper’s got this silky, almost buttery feel to it – reminds me of some of those legendary Cohiba Behikes I had the pleasure of smoking in Havana back in ’08. The pre-light draw gave me hints of cedar and something I can only describe as “old leather” – you know that smell when you walk into a well-aged humidor?
Here’s where things get interesting (and where I might ruffle some feathers): the first third didn’t blow me away. Don’t get me wrong – it was good, solid, what you’d expect from H. Upmann. But for what I paid? I was starting to wonder if this was going to be another case of fancy packaging masking an average smoke.
The initial flavors were classic Upmann – that signature hay and honey sweetness, some light pepper, very approachable stuff. Nothing wrong with it, but nothing that made me sit up and take notice either. The burn was razor-sharp though, I’ll give it that. And the ash held on like it had something to prove.
The Journey Gets Interesting
About an inch in, something shifted. Maybe it was the blend opening up, maybe it was just me settling into the rhythm of the smoke, but suddenly I understood why they bothered with this release.
The honey notes deepened into something richer – more like wildflower honey than that processed stuff you get at the grocery store. Then this beautiful earthy undertone started creeping in. Not dirt earthy, mind you, but more like walking through a forest after it rains. You know what I mean?
By the time I hit what most reviewers would call the “second third” (I hate dividing cigars into neat little sections like that – smoke doesn’t work that way), I was getting waves of complexity that reminded me why I fell in love with Cuban tobacco in the first place. There were moments of dried fruit – figs maybe? – mixed with coffee bean and this subtle spice that never overwhelmed but kept things interesting.
The really impressive part? The strength stayed perfectly in check. This is a medium-bodied cigar that never tries to prove anything through nicotine. I’ve smoked plenty of limited editions that seemed to think “stronger = better.” Not here. This is about finesse.
What I’m Drinking With These
I’ve paired these with quite a few different drinks over the months, and here’s what works (and what doesn’t). First, skip the heavy stuff. I tried one with a glass of Macallan 18 and it was a disaster – too much competing complexity. The cigar got lost.
What really sings? I had fantastic experiences with:
- Hennessy Paradis (if you’re feeling flush – hey, if you’re buying these cigars, why not?)
- A simple aged rum – I particularly loved it with some Zacapa 23
- Coffee, but only a light roast. I had one with some Ethiopian single-origin from my local roaster and it was magical
- Surprisingly, champagne works beautifully. Dom Perignon if you’re celebrating, but honestly a good Cava does the trick too
The one pairing that surprised me was with a simple sparkling water with lime. Sometimes you want to taste the cigar, not compete with it.
The Final Act
Here’s where these cigars really earned their keep. The last portion – usually where a lot of smokes start to turn bitter or harsh – stayed sweet and smooth right down to the nub. I mean, I smoked these down until my fingers were getting warm, and they never betrayed me.
There’s this moment, maybe with about two inches left, where everything comes together. All those flavors I mentioned earlier – the honey, the earth, the subtle spices – they converge into something that’s greater than the sum of its parts. It’s the kind of moment that reminds you why you collect cigars instead of just smoking whatever’s available.
The strength picks up just a touch at the end (as it should), but never becomes aggressive. This is elegant power, if that makes sense.
Who Should Buy These (And Who Shouldn’t)
Let’s be honest about who this cigar is for. If you’re just getting into Cubans, skip these. Not because they’re not good, but because you won’t appreciate what you’re paying for yet. Start with regular production Upmanns – the No. 2, maybe a Magnum 46 – and work your way up.
These are for the collector. The person who already has a well-stocked humidor and is looking for something special for those occasions that matter. Anniversary dinner, closing a big deal, celebrating your kid’s graduation – that kind of thing.
They’re also perfect for the cigar lover who appreciates subtlety over power. If you’re the type who gravitates toward Behikes over Esplendidos, toward Davidoff over Punch, you’ll probably love these.
Who should skip them? Honestly, anyone who thinks a cigar needs to knock you on your ass to be worth smoking. These aren’t about strength or boldness – they’re about refinement and complexity. If that’s not your thing, save your money.
Storage and Aging Thoughts
Here’s some practical stuff: these came pretty well humidified, but I let mine rest for about three months before touching them. Cuban cigars often benefit from some downtime, and these are no exception.
I keep mine at 65% humidity, maybe 66% – any higher and I think you lose some of that complexity. Temperature around 65-68°F if you can manage it. The presentation box is gorgeous but don’t store them in it long-term. Those foam inserts don’t breathe properly.
Will they age well? Based on my experience with other H. Upmann releases, I’d say absolutely. I’m sitting on half my box for at least five years to see what happens. The tobacco profile suggests these will develop beautifully – more earth, maybe some leather notes, definitely more integration of the existing flavors.
The Bottom Line on Value
Here’s my controversial opinion: these are actually fairly priced for what they are. I know, I know – nobody wants to hear that about expensive cigars. But when you consider the quality of the tobacco, the construction, the presentation, and most importantly, the smoking experience, they’re in line with other premium limited releases.
Are they better than a regular production H. Upmann Magnum 50? Absolutely. Are they worth three times the price? That depends on your priorities and your budget. For me, having a few of these in the humidor for special occasions feels right. Smoking them regularly would be overkill (and bankruptcy).
Think of them as upmann investments – not just in your humidor, but in memorable experiences. The cigar you break out when your old college buddy visits, or when you’re celebrating something worth celebrating.
A Few Questions You Might Have
How do these compare to other recent H. Upmann limited editions?
Better than the 2019 releases, not quite at the level of some of the legendary releases from the early 2000s. But very solid overall.
Should I smoke these now or age them?
Both. Seriously – if you bought a box, smoke a couple now to establish a baseline, then revisit them in a year or two. That’s half the fun of collecting Cubans.
Are there any construction issues I should watch for?
I haven’t had any problems across the five I’ve smoked so far. Draw has been consistently excellent, burn has been even, ash has been solid. Quality control seems tight on this release.
What’s the smoking time?
Plan for 90 minutes to two hours, depending on your pace. These aren’t quick smokes, which is part of their appeal. Set aside an evening.
Look, at the end of the day, cigars like this aren’t about rational purchasing decisions. They’re about passion, about appreciating craftsmanship, about having something special for life’s special moments. If you can afford them without feeling the pinch, and if you appreciate nuanced, elegant cigars, you won’t regret adding a few of these to your collection.
Just don’t expect them to change your life. They’re very good cigars, not religious experiences. But sometimes very good is exactly what you’re looking for.
Dennis Wallace –
Solid cigar from H. Upmann. The H. Upmann Super Magnum Edicion 2020 Book has nice flavors of leather and wood and good construction. Enjoyed about 72 minutes of smooth smoking. Would recommend, especially for those new to H. Upmann.
Donald Long –
Very good cigar. The H. Upmann H. Upmann Super Magnum Edicion 2020 Book lives up to its reputation. Beautiful wrapper, good construction, and nice flavor development. Tasted cocoa and pepper with a smooth finish. Not the absolute best I’ve had, but definitely solid. Would buy again.
Karen Lee –
Five stars all the way! The H. Upmann H. Upmann Super Magnum Edicion 2020 Book is simply amazing. Smooth from start to finish with beautiful notes of nuts and earth. This is my go-to cigar now. Outstanding quality and flavor complexity!
Peter Hayes –
Best cigar I’ve had in a long time! H. Upmann really knocked it out of the park with the H. Upmann Super Magnum Edicion 2020 Book. Rich flavor profile featuring cocoa and pepper, perfect draw, and excellent burn. Can’t recommend this enough!
Robert Martinez –
Top-tier quality from H. Upmann. The H. Upmann Super Magnum Edicion 2020 Book showcases everything I love about Cuban cigars – impeccable craftsmanship, smooth draw, and layers of flavor. Picked up notes of nuts and earth. Burned evenly throughout. A must-try for any serious aficionado!
Lisa Barnes –
Phenomenal smoke! Been enjoying Cuban cigars for years and this H. Upmann Super Magnum Edicion 2020 Book is easily one of my favorites. Beautiful wrapper, flawless construction, and about 85 minutes of pure enjoyment. The flavor profile is incredible – nuts and earth. Will definitely order more!
Scott Henderson –
Five stars all the way! The H. Upmann H. Upmann Super Magnum Edicion 2020 Book is simply amazing. Smooth from start to finish with beautiful notes of cocoa and pepper. This is my go-to cigar now. Outstanding quality and flavor complexity!
Steven Rivera –
Absolutely outstanding cigar! The H. Upmann H. Upmann Super Magnum Edicion 2020 Book delivers exceptional quality from start to finish. Rich, complex flavors with notes of cocoa and pepper. Perfect construction and draw. This is what premium Cuban cigars are all about. Highly recommended!
Dorothy Hughes –
Phenomenal smoke! Been enjoying Cuban cigars for years and this H. Upmann Super Magnum Edicion 2020 Book is easily one of my favorites. Beautiful wrapper, flawless construction, and about 59 minutes of pure enjoyment. The flavor profile is incredible – leather and wood. Will definitely order more!
Amanda Phillips –
This is hands down one of the best cigars I’ve smoked this year. The H. Upmann H. Upmann Super Magnum Edicion 2020 Book exceeded all expectations. Rich, creamy smoke with complex notes of cocoa and pepper. Construction is perfect, ash holds firm. Worth every penny!
Timothy Kelly –
A true masterpiece from H. Upmann. This H. Upmann Super Magnum Edicion 2020 Book is everything you want in a premium Cuban cigar. Exquisite flavors of coffee and cream, flawless construction, razor-sharp burn. Been smoking these for years and they never disappoint!
Frances Hunt –
Phenomenal smoke! Been enjoying Cuban cigars for years and this H. Upmann Super Magnum Edicion 2020 Book is easily one of my favorites. Beautiful wrapper, flawless construction, and about 80 minutes of pure enjoyment. The flavor profile is incredible – coffee and cream. Will definitely order more!
Gregory Murphy –
Incredible cigar! The H. Upmann Super Magnum Edicion 2020 Book from H. Upmann is absolutely exceptional. Smooth, complex, and beautifully balanced. Got wonderful notes of nuts and earth throughout the smoke. Lasted about 82 minutes. Already ordering another box!
Michael Anderson –
Phenomenal smoke! Been enjoying Cuban cigars for years and this H. Upmann Super Magnum Edicion 2020 Book is easily one of my favorites. Beautiful wrapper, flawless construction, and about 76 minutes of pure enjoyment. The flavor profile is incredible – coffee and cream. Will definitely order more!
Roger Webb –
Absolutely love this H. Upmann Super Magnum Edicion 2020 Book! H. Upmann continues to impress with their quality. Wonderful complexity with leather and wood, smooth creamy smoke, and perfect construction. One of my all-time favorites!
Jacqueline Porter –
Best cigar I’ve had in a long time! H. Upmann really knocked it out of the park with the H. Upmann Super Magnum Edicion 2020 Book. Rich flavor profile featuring nuts and earth, perfect draw, and excellent burn. Can’t recommend this enough!
Jesse Reynolds –
Absolutely love this H. Upmann Super Magnum Edicion 2020 Book! H. Upmann continues to impress with their quality. Wonderful complexity with coffee and cream, smooth creamy smoke, and perfect construction. One of my all-time favorites!
Virginia Howard –
Exceptional cigar from H. Upmann. The H. Upmann Super Magnum Edicion 2020 Book delivers on every level – flavor, construction, consistency. Beautiful notes of cocoa and pepper throughout the 60 minute smoke. This is why Cuban cigars are legendary!
Eugene Simpson –
Exceptional cigar from H. Upmann. The H. Upmann Super Magnum Edicion 2020 Book delivers on every level – flavor, construction, consistency. Beautiful notes of honey and tobacco throughout the 69 minute smoke. This is why Cuban cigars are legendary!
Victor Harper –
Good cigar but expected a bit more for the price. The H. Upmann H. Upmann Super Magnum Edicion 2020 Book delivered on flavor (leather and wood) and construction, but lacked the complexity I was hoping for. Solid smoke, just not outstanding. Still enjoyable.
Jean Stone –
Really enjoyed this H. Upmann Super Magnum Edicion 2020 Book. H. Upmann consistently delivers quality and this is no exception. Good complexity with notes of honey and tobacco. Construction was solid and burn was even. A bit pricey but you get what you pay for with Cuban cigars. Recommended!
David Williams –
Best cigar I’ve had in a long time! H. Upmann really knocked it out of the park with the H. Upmann Super Magnum Edicion 2020 Book. Rich flavor profile featuring cedar and spice, perfect draw, and excellent burn. Can’t recommend this enough!
Jack Peterson –
Top-tier quality from H. Upmann. The H. Upmann Super Magnum Edicion 2020 Book showcases everything I love about Cuban cigars – impeccable craftsmanship, smooth draw, and layers of flavor. Picked up notes of leather and wood. Burned evenly throughout. A must-try for any serious aficionado!
Paul Price –
Best cigar I’ve had in a long time! H. Upmann really knocked it out of the park with the H. Upmann Super Magnum Edicion 2020 Book. Rich flavor profile featuring honey and tobacco, perfect draw, and excellent burn. Can’t recommend this enough!
Edward Coleman –
Incredible cigar! The H. Upmann Super Magnum Edicion 2020 Book from H. Upmann is absolutely exceptional. Smooth, complex, and beautifully balanced. Got wonderful notes of cocoa and pepper throughout the smoke. Lasted about 57 minutes. Already ordering another box!
Susan Richardson –
Absolutely outstanding cigar! The H. Upmann H. Upmann Super Magnum Edicion 2020 Book delivers exceptional quality from start to finish. Rich, complex flavors with notes of coffee and cream. Perfect construction and draw. This is what premium Cuban cigars are all about. Highly recommended!
Donna Campbell –
Decent cigar but not my favorite from H. Upmann. The H. Upmann Super Magnum Edicion 2020 Book has good flavor – cocoa and pepper – but didn’t wow me like other Cubans I’ve had. Construction was fine, burn was mostly even. It’s good, just not exceptional. Worth trying though.
Russell Fox –
The H. Upmann H. Upmann Super Magnum Edicion 2020 Book is a quality cigar. Nice balance of flavor and strength. I enjoyed the leather and wood notes throughout. Construction was very good with only one minor touch-up needed. Good cigar for experienced smokers.
Laura Bell –
Good cigar but expected a bit more for the price. The H. Upmann H. Upmann Super Magnum Edicion 2020 Book delivered on flavor (cedar and spice) and construction, but lacked the complexity I was hoping for. Solid smoke, just not outstanding. Still enjoyable.
Henry Gardner –
Top-tier quality from H. Upmann. The H. Upmann Super Magnum Edicion 2020 Book showcases everything I love about Cuban cigars – impeccable craftsmanship, smooth draw, and layers of flavor. Picked up notes of leather and wood. Burned evenly throughout. A must-try for any serious aficionado!
Charles Foster –
Best cigar I’ve had in a long time! H. Upmann really knocked it out of the park with the H. Upmann Super Magnum Edicion 2020 Book. Rich flavor profile featuring cocoa and pepper, perfect draw, and excellent burn. Can’t recommend this enough!
Andrew Thompson –
Best cigar I’ve had in a long time! H. Upmann really knocked it out of the park with the H. Upmann Super Magnum Edicion 2020 Book. Rich flavor profile featuring cocoa and pepper, perfect draw, and excellent burn. Can’t recommend this enough!
Jeffrey Watson –
The H. Upmann Super Magnum Edicion 2020 Book is a respectable cigar. Nice notes of leather and wood, decent construction. However, I found it a bit one-dimensional compared to other H. Upmann offerings. Not bad, but there are better options in this price range.
Louis Webb –
Five stars all the way! The H. Upmann H. Upmann Super Magnum Edicion 2020 Book is simply amazing. Smooth from start to finish with beautiful notes of leather and wood. This is my go-to cigar now. Outstanding quality and flavor complexity!
Anna Sanders –
A true masterpiece from H. Upmann. This H. Upmann Super Magnum Edicion 2020 Book is everything you want in a premium Cuban cigar. Exquisite flavors of honey and tobacco, flawless construction, razor-sharp burn. Been smoking these for years and they never disappoint!
Rose Martinez –
A true masterpiece from H. Upmann. This H. Upmann Super Magnum Edicion 2020 Book is everything you want in a premium Cuban cigar. Exquisite flavors of leather and wood, flawless construction, razor-sharp burn. Been smoking these for years and they never disappoint!
Judith Boyd –
Absolutely love this H. Upmann Super Magnum Edicion 2020 Book! H. Upmann continues to impress with their quality. Wonderful complexity with cedar and spice, smooth creamy smoke, and perfect construction. One of my all-time favorites!
Janet Gray –
The H. Upmann H. Upmann Super Magnum Edicion 2020 Book is a quality cigar. Nice balance of flavor and strength. I enjoyed the coffee and cream notes throughout. Construction was very good with only one minor touch-up needed. Good cigar for experienced smokers.
Kenneth Brooks –
Incredible cigar! The H. Upmann Super Magnum Edicion 2020 Book from H. Upmann is absolutely exceptional. Smooth, complex, and beautifully balanced. Got wonderful notes of honey and tobacco throughout the smoke. Lasted about 50 minutes. Already ordering another box!
Carol King –
Very pleased with this H. Upmann Super Magnum Edicion 2020 Book. H. Upmann quality shines through with nuts and earth flavors and solid construction. A touch expensive but worth it for special occasions. Good smoke!
Lawrence Rose –
Solid cigar from H. Upmann. The H. Upmann Super Magnum Edicion 2020 Book has nice flavors of nuts and earth and good construction. Enjoyed about 84 minutes of smooth smoking. Would recommend, especially for those new to H. Upmann.
Joshua Clark –
Top-tier quality from H. Upmann. The H. Upmann Super Magnum Edicion 2020 Book showcases everything I love about Cuban cigars – impeccable craftsmanship, smooth draw, and layers of flavor. Picked up notes of cocoa and pepper. Burned evenly throughout. A must-try for any serious aficionado!
Julia Holmes –
This is hands down one of the best cigars I’ve smoked this year. The H. Upmann H. Upmann Super Magnum Edicion 2020 Book exceeded all expectations. Rich, creamy smoke with complex notes of honey and tobacco. Construction is perfect, ash holds firm. Worth every penny!
Michelle Adams –
The H. Upmann Super Magnum Edicion 2020 Book is a respectable cigar. Nice notes of honey and tobacco, decent construction. However, I found it a bit one-dimensional compared to other H. Upmann offerings. Not bad, but there are better options in this price range.