Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure No. 2 Reserva Cosecha 2012 

Why the Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure No. 2 Reserva Cosecha 2012 Became My Go-To Recommendation

After three decades of reviewing Cuban cigars, I can count on one hand the releases that have truly redefined my understanding of what maduro wrapper excellence can achieve. The hoyo de monterrey epicure seleccion no. 2 Reserva Cosecha 2012 sits firmly at the top of that very short list. When Habanos S.A. first announced this release in their limited edition catalog, I’ll admit I was skeptical—another premium maduro offering in an already crowded market. How wrong I was.

This cigar has become my standard recommendation for clients seeking the perfect marriage of Cuban terroir and extended aging refinement. The 2012 vintage represents everything exceptional about the hoyo epicure selección line, elevated to unprecedented heights through careful tobacco selection and masterful maduro processing. Every conversation about premium Cuban cigars inevitably leads me back to this remarkable smoke.

The Story Behind This Exceptional Release

The Reserva Cosecha series represents Habanos S.A.’s commitment to showcasing exceptional tobacco harvests through extended aging protocols. The 2012 vintage tobacco used in this epicure selección underwent a minimum five-year aging process before receiving its distinctive maduro treatment. This isn’t simply another entry on the standard release list—it’s a celebration of Cuban tobacco craftsmanship at its finest.

What sets this hoyo de monterrey epicure selección apart from regular production cigars is the meticulous attention paid to every aspect of its creation. The tobacco selection process was extraordinarily rigorous, with master blenders hand-selecting only the finest leaves from the 2012 Vuelta Abajo harvest. The result is a cigar that exemplifies why the Hoyo brand has maintained its reputation for over 150 years.

The maduro wrapper on this release showcases a depth of color and oil content that’s immediately striking. Unlike many maduro cigars that rely heavily on fermentation for their character, this epicure seleccion achieves its complexity through the natural interaction between aged filler tobaccos and the carefully processed wrapper leaf.

Construction and Visual Appeal

Wrapper Analysis

The maduro wrapper on this hoyo exemplifies what Cuban tobacco artisans can achieve when given premium materials and sufficient time. The leaf displays a rich, dark brown coloration with subtle variations that speak to natural fermentation processes rather than artificial acceleration. Oil content is immediately apparent, creating an almost mirror-like sheen that catches light beautifully.

Upon close inspection, the wrapper reveals minimal veining and an exceptionally smooth texture. The maduro processing has been executed with remarkable precision—dark enough to indicate proper fermentation, yet retaining the suppleness essential for optimal burn characteristics. This level of wrapper quality typically appears only on the most exclusive releases in any manufacturer’s catalog.

Cap and Band Details

The triple cap construction demonstrates the attention to detail that makes these cigars special. Each cap has been applied with perfect symmetry, showing no signs of the rushing that sometimes affects larger production runs. The traditional Hoyo de Monterrey band features the distinctive red and gold color scheme, with an additional Reserva Cosecha band indicating its special status among Cuban premium offerings.

Pre-light draw resistance falls perfectly within the ideal range—firm enough to indicate proper filling, yet open enough to suggest the cigar will burn evenly throughout its length. The cold draw reveals subtle hints of what’s to come: rich tobacco sweetness with undertones of cocoa and leather that promise exceptional complexity ahead.

Flavor Profile: A Journey Through Three Distinct Acts

First Third: The Gentle Introduction

Lighting this epicure selección reveals immediately why it has earned such acclaim among serious aficionados. The initial draws produce smooth, creamy smoke with remarkable density and cooling properties. The maduro wrapper contributes subtle sweetness without overwhelming the underlying tobacco character—a balance that many maduro cigars struggle to achieve.

Primary flavors in the opening third center around rich tobacco earthiness complemented by notes of dark chocolate and roasted coffee beans. There’s a underlying mineral quality that speaks to the Vuelta Abajo terroir, providing grounding for the more complex flavors that develop. The retrohale at this stage reveals gentle spice—white pepper with hints of cinnamon that add dimension without creating harshness.

What strikes me most about these opening moments is the cigar’s immediate smoothness. Many premium cigars require time to settle into their rhythm, but this hoyo de monterrey epicure selección delivers complexity from the very first puff. It’s a slow-burning cigar that rewards patience, with flavors evolving gradually rather than shifting dramatically.

Middle Third: The Heart of Complexity

As the cigar progresses into its middle section, the maduro wrapper’s influence becomes more pronounced while maintaining perfect harmony with the aged filler tobaccos. The chocolate notes deepen, taking on characteristics reminiscent of high-quality dark chocolate with 70% cocoa content. Coffee flavors evolve from the lighter roasted notes of the opening into something approaching espresso intensity.

This is where the five-year aging process becomes most apparent. The tobacco displays none of the sharpness or aggressive qualities sometimes found in younger cigars. Instead, every element feels perfectly integrated, creating a smoking experience that’s both complex and remarkably smooth. New flavors emerge gradually: leather, cedar, and a subtle nuttiness that adds richness without competing with the primary profile.

The retrohale during this portion reveals increased spice complexity, with the white pepper notes joined by touches of black pepper and nutmeg. Yet even at its most intense, the spice remains well-controlled, enhancing rather than overwhelming the other flavors present. This level of balance speaks to both the quality of the original tobacco and the skill involved in the blending process.

Final Third: The Memorable Conclusion

The final portion of this epicure seleccion demonstrates why experienced aficionados often judge cigars primarily on their finish. Rather than becoming harsh or overpowering as some maduro cigars do in their concluding moments, this hoyo maintains its character while adding new dimensions of complexity.

Flavors in the final third include intensified leather notes, rich earth tones, and a distinctive mineral quality that I associate with the finest Cuban tobacco. The chocolate and coffee elements remain present but take on more sophisticated characteristics—the chocolate becomes almost truffle-like in its richness, while the coffee notes develop subtle vanilla undertones reminiscent of premium aged rum.

Perhaps most remarkably, this slow-burning cigar maintains its smooth character right to the nub. There’s no need to abandon the final inches due to harshness or heat—a testament to both the construction quality and the maduro wrapper’s heat-dissipating properties. The final draws are as enjoyable as the opening ones, creating a completely satisfying smoking experience from start to finish.

Perfect Pairing Recommendations

Spirit Pairings

The complexity of this hoyo de monterrey epicure selección demands equally sophisticated beverage accompaniments. My top recommendation is aged rum, specifically Ron Zacapa 23 or Diplomatico Reserva Exclusiva. The vanilla and caramel notes in these rums complement the maduro wrapper beautifully while their smoothness matches the cigar’s refined character.

For whiskey enthusiasts, I recommend single malt Scotch whiskies with sherry cask influence. The Macallan 18 or GlenDronach 21 Parliament provide the fruit and nut characteristics that harmonize perfectly with the tobacco’s natural complexity. The slight sweetness from sherry aging creates beautiful synergy with the maduro wrapper’s inherent richness.

Cognac represents another excellent pairing option, particularly VSOP expressions from houses like Hennessy or Rémy Martin. The grape-derived sweetness and oak aging notes in quality cognac enhance the cigar’s leather and cedar characteristics while providing complementary rather than competing flavors.

Non-Alcoholic Options

For those preferring non-alcoholic pairings, premium coffee offers excellent compatibility. Single-origin beans from regions like Jamaica Blue Mountain or Hawaii Kona provide the complexity worthy of this exceptional cigar. The key is choosing coffee with natural sweetness and low acidity to avoid competing with the tobacco’s refined character.

Dark chocolate also creates interesting flavor interactions, particularly varieties with 70-85% cocoa content. The slight bitterness in high-quality dark chocolate enhances the maduro wrapper’s sweetness while providing textural contrast to the smooth smoke.

Storage and Aging Considerations

Proper storage is crucial for maintaining the exceptional qualities that make this epicure selección special. I recommend storing these cigars at 65-68% relative humidity and 65-70°F temperature. The maduro wrapper responds particularly well to slightly lower humidity levels, which help preserve its oils while preventing any tendency toward softness.

Cedar storage, whether in Spanish cedar humidor compartments or cedar sleeves, enhances the aging process by contributing subtle aromatic compounds that complement the tobacco’s natural development. Avoid plastic storage containers or non-cedar environments for extended periods, as they can negatively impact the wrapper’s delicate characteristics.

While these cigars are exceptional upon release, they continue developing complexity with additional aging. I’ve found that specimens aged an additional 2-3 years beyond their release date show increased integration and subtle flavor evolution that makes them even more remarkable.

Who Should Smoke This Cigar

This hoyo de monterrey epicure selección appeals most to experienced cigar enthusiasts who appreciate subtle complexity over bold intensity. If you enjoy cigars like the Padron 1964 Anniversary Series maduro or the Ashton ESG, this Cuban offering will likely become a favorite. The refinement level makes it less suitable for beginners, who might not fully appreciate its nuanced character.

Collectors focusing on limited releases will find this cigar essential for any serious Cuban collection. Its position in the Reserva Cosecha series makes it historically significant, while its exceptional smoking qualities ensure it’s not merely a display piece. This represents the type of cigar that justifies the premium pricing associated with limited Cuban releases.

Business professionals seeking impressive entertaining options will find this cigar perfect for important client meetings or celebration occasions. Its reputation precedes it among knowledgeable enthusiasts, making it an excellent choice when you want to make a memorable impression.

Market Position and Value Analysis

Within the current Cuban cigar market, this epicure seleccion occupies a unique position among premium maduro offerings. While priced significantly above regular production cigars, the quality justifies the premium for serious enthusiasts. Compared to other limited releases on the typical release list, this cigar offers exceptional value considering its smoking qualities and collectible status.

The 2012 vintage tobacco’s quality becomes more apparent when compared to cigars from less exceptional harvests. This represents one of those releases that demonstrates why certain years produce significantly superior results, making it worth seeking out specifically rather than settling for alternatives from different vintages.

For collectors, the combination of limited availability and exceptional smoking qualities creates strong investment potential. Unlike some limited releases that rely primarily on scarcity for their value, this cigar’s smoking excellence ensures demand will remain strong among serious enthusiasts long after supplies are exhausted.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does this compare to regular production Hoyo de Monterrey cigars?

The difference is immediately apparent from the first puff. While regular production Hoyo cigars offer excellent quality, this Reserva Cosecha represents a completely different level of refinement. The extended aging process, superior tobacco selection, and maduro wrapper treatment create complexity that’s simply not available in standard releases. Think of it as the difference between a good wine and a exceptional vintage—both enjoyable, but clearly in different categories.

Is the maduro wrapper natural or artificial?

The maduro wrapper on this epicure selección is achieved through natural fermentation processes, not artificial coloring or flavoring. The deep, rich color develops through extended fermentation that breaks down chlorophyll while concentrating natural sugars. This creates the distinctive sweetness and complexity that distinguishes quality maduro cigars from artificially darkened alternatives. The oil content and suppleness provide clear evidence of natural processing methods.

How long should I age these cigars before smoking?

These cigars are ready to smoke upon purchase, having already undergone extensive aging before release. However, additional aging of 6-12 months can allow them to recover from shipping stress and integrate further. I’ve found that specimens aged an additional 2-3 years show increased complexity, but the improvement is subtle rather than dramatic. The choice between immediate enjoyment and extended aging depends on your patience level and storage capabilities.

What makes this release special compared to other limited editions?

Several factors distinguish this release from typical limited editions. First, the 2012 harvest was exceptional, providing superior base tobacco. Second, the extended aging process was longer than many limited releases receive. Third, the maduro wrapper processing was executed with particular care, creating the perfect balance between sweetness and complexity. Finally, the production quantities were limited enough to ensure quality control while being sufficient to allow serious enthusiasts to acquire them.

Are these cigars suitable for special occasions?

Absolutely. This hoyo de monterrey epicure selección is ideal for milestone celebrations, important business occasions, or any time you want a truly memorable smoking experience. The combination of exceptional quality, limited availability, and sophisticated flavor profile makes it perfect for marking significant moments. However, given their special nature, I recommend reserving them for occasions when you can truly appreciate and focus on the smoking experience rather than treating them as casual, everyday cigars.