About the Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure No. 2 Reserva Cosecha 2012
The Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure No. 2 Reserva Cosecha 2012 takes the most celebrated robusto in the Hoyo portfolio and elevates it into rarefied territory. Hoyo de Monterrey has long been prized for its lighter, exceptionally aromatic style, and the Epicure No. 2 is widely regarded as one of the finest Cuban robustos in production. This Reserva edition debuted at the 18th Habanos Festival in 2016 as the sixth release in the prestigious Habanos Reserva line. Every cigar is rolled entirely from tobacco harvested in 2012 and then aged a minimum of three years before rolling, a process reserved for only the top tier of the crop. Presentation reflects that pedigree, with a silver on black secondary band and numbered lacquered boxes, since just 5,000 boxes of 20 were produced for the entire world.
Flavor profile by thirds
The opening third is all about creaminess, leading with smooth cedar, toasted nuts, and a soft sweetness reminiscent of caramel and vanilla, with only the faintest trace of white pepper. Through the middle the cigar settles into its stride, the nuttiness deepening while a bright orange peel note arrives alongside gentle baking spice and that signature Hoyo florality. The final third leans toward fresh bread and light toast, the creamy character holding firm to the very end, accented by hints of honey and brown sugar. Body stays in the mild to medium range from light to nub, which is part of its enduring appeal for those who favor nuance over power.
Pairings
- A cup of freshly brewed espresso or a creamy cortado, which echoes the cigar’s nutty, toasted sweetness.
- An aged Cuban or Dominican rum, whose caramel and dried fruit notes mirror the smoke beautifully.
- A lightly peated or unpeated single malt Scotch, letting the cedar and honey tones come forward without being overwhelmed.
Aging and storage
Because this is a Reserva release, the tobacco already carries years of rest behind it, yet these cigars continue to reward patience in the humidor. Keep them at a steady 65 to 70 percent relative humidity and a temperature near 65 degrees Fahrenheit to preserve the wrapper and let the flavors marry further. Stored in a well seasoned humidor, the creamy and nutty character tends to round out and grow even more harmonious over time. Given the limited production and numbered boxes, many collectors hold these as much for the cellar as for the smoke.
Who it is for
This cigar suits the smoker who appreciates subtlety, complexity, and balance rather than sheer strength. Newcomers stepping up from milder blends will find it approachable, while seasoned aficionados will savor the layered evolution and the prestige of a genuine Habanos Reserva. It is an excellent choice for a relaxed morning or afternoon smoke, and its rarity makes it a natural fit for collectors and for marking a special occasion.
Frequently asked questions
What does Cosecha 2012 mean on the box?
Cosecha is the Spanish word for harvest, so Cosecha 2012 indicates that every leaf in the cigar was picked during the 2012 crop. The tobacco was then aged for at least three years before the cigars were rolled, which is the hallmark of the Habanos Reserva line.
How strong is the Epicure No. 2 Reserva Cosecha 2012?
It sits in the mild to medium range. The draw is creamy and smooth with gentle spice, making it flavorful and refined without being overpowering.
Is this a limited edition?
Yes. Only 5,000 numbered lacquered boxes of 20 cigars were produced for the worldwide market, which is what makes this release so sought after by collectors.
Explore more
Browse all Hoyo de Monterrey cigars, see our Hoyo de Monterrey price guide, or try the Hoyo De Monterrey Epicure No.2 and Hoyo de Monterrey Le Hoyo de Río Seco. Store yours in a seasoned humidor and see our guide on how long cigars last. Learn more from Wikipedia, the official Habanos S.A. site.
Cynthia Bailey –
Very pleased with this Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure No. 2 Reserva Cosecha 2012 . Hoyo de Monterrey quality shines through with wood and coffee flavors and solid construction. A touch expensive but worth it for special occasions. Good smoke!
Victor Harper –
Top-tier quality from Hoyo de Monterrey. The Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure No. 2 Reserva Cosecha 2012 showcases everything I love about Cuban cigars – impeccable craftsmanship, smooth draw, and layers of flavor. Picked up notes of mild spice and earth. Burned evenly throughout. A must-try for any serious aficionado!
Donna Campbell –
Top-tier quality from Hoyo de Monterrey. The Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure No. 2 Reserva Cosecha 2012 showcases everything I love about Cuban cigars – impeccable craftsmanship, smooth draw, and layers of flavor. Picked up notes of vanilla and spice. Burned evenly throughout. A must-try for any serious aficionado!
Frank Reed –
Very pleased with this Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure No. 2 Reserva Cosecha 2012 . Hoyo de Monterrey quality shines through with caramel and tobacco flavors and solid construction. A touch expensive but worth it for special occasions. Good smoke!
Rebecca Cook –
The Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure No. 2 Reserva Cosecha 2012 is a respectable cigar. Nice notes of vanilla and spice, decent construction. However, I found it a bit one-dimensional compared to other Hoyo de Monterrey offerings. Not bad, but there are better options in this price range.
Henry Gardner –
Absolutely outstanding cigar! The Hoyo de Monterrey Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure No. 2 Reserva Cosecha 2012 delivers exceptional quality from start to finish. Rich, complex flavors with notes of wood and coffee. Perfect construction and draw. This is what premium Cuban cigars are all about. Highly recommended!
Marilyn Stone –
Phenomenal smoke! Been enjoying Cuban cigars for years and this Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure No. 2 Reserva Cosecha 2012 is easily one of my favorites. Beautiful wrapper, flawless construction, and about 45 minutes of pure enjoyment. The flavor profile is incredible – mild spice and earth. Will definitely order more!
Dorothy Hughes –
Great smoke for the price. This Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure No. 2 Reserva Cosecha 2012 offers excellent value for a premium Hoyo de Monterrey cigar. Good flavor with notes of mild spice and earth, even burn, and consistent quality. Perfect for a weekend smoke. Happy with this purchase!
Theresa Lawson –
Phenomenal smoke! Been enjoying Cuban cigars for years and this Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure No. 2 Reserva Cosecha 2012 is easily one of my favorites. Beautiful wrapper, flawless construction, and about 77 minutes of pure enjoyment. The flavor profile is incredible – honey and nuts. Will definitely order more!
Larry Barnes –
Five stars all the way! The Hoyo de Monterrey Hoyo de Monterrey Epicure No. 2 Reserva Cosecha 2012 is simply amazing. Smooth from start to finish with beautiful notes of caramel and tobacco. This is my go-to cigar now. Outstanding quality and flavor complexity!