The H Upmann No.2 Isn’t What Most People Think It Is
Here’s the thing that drives me absolutely nuts – everyone and their brother thinks the H Upmann Number 2 is some kind of beginner’s Cuban. “Oh, it’s mild,” they say. “Perfect starter cigar.” Bull. I’ve been smoking Cubans for over two decades now, and let me tell you something: whoever’s spreading that rumor clearly hasn’t spent quality time with this torpedo.
I remember my first No.2 back in ’03. Buddy of mine brought a box back from his honeymoon in Cancún (yeah, I know, probably fakes, but they weren’t). We’re sitting on his deck in August – humid as hell in Georgia – and I’m expecting this gentle, docile smoke. Twenty minutes in, this thing’s throwing leather and earth at me like it’s got something to prove.
That was my introduction to what I now consider one of the most underestimated cigars in the H Upmann lineup.
First Impressions: Don’t Judge This Book
The H Upmann No.2 comes at you looking pretty traditional – that classic torpedo shape (they call it a belicoso, but let’s be honest, it’s basically a torpedo). Medium brown wrapper that’s usually got a bit of tooth to it. Nothing flashy. The band’s got that understated elegance H Upmann’s known for since… Christ, since before my grandfather was born.
But here’s where it gets interesting. The pre-light draw? You’re getting hints of what’s coming, but it’s playing coy. Little bit of cedar, maybe some hay. Sometimes there’s this faint sweetness that reminds me of dried fruit. But don’t let it fool you – this cigar’s got layers.
Construction’s usually pretty solid. I’ve probably smoked… hell, must be close to 200 of these over the years, and I can count the problematic ones on one hand. The torpedo head lights evenly if you’re patient with it (and you better be patient, or you’ll scorch the wrapper and hate yourself for it).
The Smoke: A Journey That Actually Surprises
Okay, so here’s where I’m gonna get a bit controversial. Everyone talks about cigars in thirds – first third this, middle third that. Honestly? That’s not how I experience the H Upmann Number 2. This cigar flows more like a conversation than a textbook.
It starts conversational – that cedar I mentioned comes through stronger, joined by this clean tobacco flavor that’s distinctly Cuban. Not harsh, but definitely present. There’s a creaminess too, which is probably where people get the “mild” idea from. But stick with it.
About an inch in (and this varies depending on how you’re smoking it, what the humidity’s like, whether you’re drinking something with it), the H Upmann No.2 starts showing its real personality. The earth I mentioned earlier? It’s not just earth – it’s like rich potting soil after a spring rain. Sounds weird, but trust me on this.
Then – and this is why I love this cigar – it throws you a curveball. Somewhere around the halfway point, you’re gonna get hit with spice. Not pepper exactly, more like… you know when you’re cooking and you add just a touch of white pepper to cream sauce? It’s subtle but it changes everything.
The back half is where the H Upmann No.2 earns its keep. Leather comes in strong, but it’s not overpowering. There’s still that underlying creaminess, but now it’s playing backup to some serious complexity. I’ve tasted everything from coffee (not espresso, more like a medium roast) to what I swear is a hint of orange zest. My buddy Marcus thinks I’m crazy with the orange thing, but I stand by it.
What I Drink With It (And What Actually Works)
Look, I’ve tried everything with this cigar. Everything. And here’s what actually works, not what some sommelier tells you should work.
Coffee? Absolutely. But skip the fancy stuff. I’m talking about a good, honest cup of Folgers or Maxwell House. Something with enough body to stand up to that leather and earth, but not so complex it’s fighting for attention. I’ve had some of my best H Upmann No.2 experiences on Sunday mornings with black coffee and the newspaper.
Bourbon works if you’re doing it right. None of this top-shelf nonsense – save your Pappy Van Winkle for a Cohiba. Maker’s Mark, neat, maybe a single ice cube if it’s summer. The sweetness plays beautifully with that creamy texture, and the bourbon spice complements rather than competes.
But here’s my secret weapon (and I can’t believe I’m sharing this): A good amber ale. Specifically, Samuel Adams Boston Ale. I know it sounds weird, but the maltiness bridges perfectly with the tobacco, and there’s enough hops to cleanse your palate between draws. Discovered this combination completely by accident at a poker game in ’08 and haven’t looked back.
Wine people are gonna hate me for this, but most wines don’t work. Too acidic, fights with the tobacco. If you absolutely must do wine, try a Malbec. Something with enough tannins to hold its own.
Who Should Smoke This (And Who Shouldn’t)
Here’s where I’m gonna ruffle some feathers. The H Upmann No.2 isn’t a beginner cigar. I don’t care what the guy at your local shop told you. Yeah, it starts mild, but if you can’t appreciate complexity, you’re wasting your money.
This is perfect for someone who’s smoked maybe 50-100 cigars and is ready to understand what Cuban tobacco can really do. It’s educational without being punishing. You can learn from this cigar.
Experienced smokers who think they know everything? This might surprise you. I’ve handed these to guys who only smoke Padróns or Fuente Opus X, and watched them get humbled. Cuban tobacco has its own language, and the H Upmann No.2 speaks it fluently.
Who should skip it? Honestly, if you’re looking for a quick smoke, pass. This demands at least an hour of your time, probably closer to 90 minutes if you’re doing it right. Also, if you only like full-bodied cigars, this might feel underwhelming at first. (Though I’d argue you should smoke it anyway – might teach you something about subtlety.)
And for God’s sake, don’t buy this if you’re gonna smoke it right away. Which brings me to…
Storage and the Patience Game
Cuban cigars need time. The H Upmann Number 2 especially. I’ve smoked these fresh from the shop (don’t judge me, sometimes you can’t wait), and they’re… fine. But give them six months in your humidor at 65% humidity, and they transform completely.
That harshness some people complain about? That’s young tobacco talking. Time smooths it out, lets those flavors marry properly. I’ve got a box from 2019 that I’m still working through, and every one has been absolutely spectacular.
Temperature matters too. I keep mine at about 68°F. Any warmer and they smoke too fast, any cooler and they don’t develop properly. And rotate your stock – don’t be that guy with a 20-year-old box that’s all dried out because you forgot about it.
One weird thing I’ve noticed: these cigars seem to respond well to seasonal changes. I swear the ones I smoke in fall taste different (better, actually) than the summer ones. Could be psychological, but I don’t think so.
The Controversial Take
Alright, here’s where I’m probably gonna get some hate mail. I think the H Upmann No.2 is better than the Montecristo No.2. There, I said it.
Everyone goes crazy for the Monte, and don’t get me wrong, it’s a great cigar. But it’s gotten predictable. The H Upmann No.2 has more personality, more willingness to surprise you. The Monte is like dating someone beautiful but boring. The H Upmann is like dating someone interesting who happens to also be beautiful.
Plus, the H Upmann Number 2 doesn’t come with all the pretension. You can smoke this cigar without feeling like you need to pose for Instagram.
Quick Answers to Questions I Get All the Time
How long does it take to smoke?
Plan for 75-90 minutes. Don’t rush it – this isn’t a cigar you puff on while checking your phone.
Are the fakes that common?
Unfortunately, yeah. Stick to reputable dealers. If the price seems too good to be true, it probably is. I’ve been burned before (literally – fake Cubans burn terribly).
Should I age them?
Absolutely. Minimum six months, but a year is even better. Your patience will be rewarded.
What’s the strength level really?
Medium, leaning toward medium-full in the back half. Don’t smoke this on an empty stomach unless you’re experienced.
Bottom Line
The H Upmann No.2 is what got me seriously interested in Cuban cigars, and after 20+ years, I still reach for them regularly. They’re not flashy, they don’t try to impress you with overwhelming strength or exotic flavors. They just deliver a consistently excellent smoking experience that rewards attention and patience.
At around $25-30 per stick (depending on where you’re getting them), they’re not cheap. But they’re worth every penny if you’re ready to appreciate what they offer. Just don’t expect them to be mild, don’t smoke them too fast, and for the love of all that’s holy, let them rest in your humidor for a while before you light one up.
This is a cigar that’ll teach you something about tobacco, about Cuban craftsmanship, and maybe about yourself if you let it. That’s worth more than the price of admission in my book.
Thomas Perry –
Incredible cigar! The H Upmann No.2 from H. Upmann is absolutely exceptional. Smooth, complex, and beautifully balanced. Got wonderful notes of cedar and spice throughout the smoke. Lasted about 68 minutes. Already ordering another box!
Harold Wells –
Decent cigar but not my favorite from H. Upmann. The H Upmann No.2 has good flavor – cedar and spice – 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.
Kevin Mitchell –
Absolutely outstanding cigar! The H. Upmann H Upmann No.2 delivers exceptional quality from start to finish. Rich, complex flavors with notes of cedar and spice. Perfect construction and draw. This is what premium Cuban cigars are all about. Highly recommended!
Raymond Morgan –
Phenomenal smoke! Been enjoying Cuban cigars for years and this H Upmann No.2 is easily one of my favorites. Beautiful wrapper, flawless construction, and about 56 minutes of pure enjoyment. The flavor profile is incredible – nuts and earth. Will definitely order more!
Anna Sanders –
Absolutely love this H Upmann No.2! 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!
Debra Warren –
Exceptional cigar from H. Upmann. The H Upmann No.2 delivers on every level – flavor, construction, consistency. Beautiful notes of cocoa and pepper throughout the 71 minute smoke. This is why Cuban cigars are legendary!
Brandon Wright –
Really enjoyed this H Upmann No.2. H. Upmann consistently delivers quality and this is no exception. Good complexity with notes of cocoa and pepper. Construction was solid and burn was even. A bit pricey but you get what you pay for with Cuban cigars. Recommended!
Steven Ross –
Exceptional cigar from H. Upmann. The H Upmann No.2 delivers on every level – flavor, construction, consistency. Beautiful notes of leather and wood throughout the 77 minute smoke. This is why Cuban cigars are legendary!
Douglas Wells –
Solid cigar from H. Upmann. The H Upmann No.2 has nice flavors of leather and wood and good construction. Enjoyed about 81 minutes of smooth smoking. Would recommend, especially for those new to H. Upmann.
Daniel Moore –
Good cigar but expected a bit more for the price. The H. Upmann H Upmann No.2 delivered on flavor (coffee and cream) and construction, but lacked the complexity I was hoping for. Solid smoke, just not outstanding. Still enjoyable.
Walter Sanders –
Best cigar I’ve had in a long time! H. Upmann really knocked it out of the park with the H Upmann No.2. Rich flavor profile featuring nuts and earth, perfect draw, and excellent burn. Can’t recommend this enough!
Charles Foster –
Best cigar I’ve had in a long time! H. Upmann really knocked it out of the park with the H Upmann No.2. Rich flavor profile featuring leather and wood, perfect draw, and excellent burn. Can’t recommend this enough!
Andrew Thompson –
Decent cigar but not my favorite from H. Upmann. The H Upmann No.2 has good flavor – honey and tobacco – 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.
Stephanie Rogers –
Exceptional cigar from H. Upmann. The H Upmann No.2 delivers on every level – flavor, construction, consistency. Beautiful notes of coffee and cream throughout the 55 minute smoke. This is why Cuban cigars are legendary!
Gary Wood –
Good cigar but expected a bit more for the price. The H. Upmann H Upmann No.2 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 –
The H Upmann No.2 is a respectable cigar. Nice notes of nuts and earth, 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.
Arthur Knight –
Great cigar! H. Upmann H Upmann No.2 offers excellent quality and flavor. Notes of leather and wood throughout, good burn, nice draw. Not quite perfect but very close. Will definitely order again!
Jesse Reynolds –
Great cigar! H. Upmann H Upmann No.2 offers excellent quality and flavor. Notes of leather and wood throughout, good burn, nice draw. Not quite perfect but very close. Will definitely order again!
Kimberly Roberts –
Phenomenal smoke! Been enjoying Cuban cigars for years and this H Upmann No.2 is easily one of my favorites. Beautiful wrapper, flawless construction, and about 64 minutes of pure enjoyment. The flavor profile is incredible – cocoa and pepper. Will definitely order more!
Jeffrey Watson –
Great cigar! H. Upmann H Upmann No.2 offers excellent quality and flavor. Notes of leather and wood throughout, good burn, nice draw. Not quite perfect but very close. Will definitely order again!
Lisa Walker –
Great cigar! H. Upmann H Upmann No.2 offers excellent quality and flavor. Notes of cedar and spice throughout, good burn, nice draw. Not quite perfect but very close. Will definitely order again!
Matthew Jackson –
Best cigar I’ve had in a long time! H. Upmann really knocked it out of the park with the H Upmann No.2. Rich flavor profile featuring coffee and cream, perfect draw, and excellent burn. Can’t recommend this enough!
David Williams –
Exceptional cigar from H. Upmann. The H Upmann No.2 delivers on every level – flavor, construction, consistency. Beautiful notes of honey and tobacco throughout the 71 minute smoke. This is why Cuban cigars are legendary!
Virginia Howard –
Exceptional cigar from H. Upmann. The H Upmann No.2 delivers on every level – flavor, construction, consistency. Beautiful notes of nuts and earth throughout the 50 minute smoke. This is why Cuban cigars are legendary!
Dorothy Hughes –
Absolutely outstanding cigar! The H. Upmann H Upmann No.2 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!
Alexander Green –
Incredible cigar! The H Upmann No.2 from H. Upmann is absolutely exceptional. Smooth, complex, and beautifully balanced. Got wonderful notes of cocoa and pepper throughout the smoke. Lasted about 85 minutes. Already ordering another box!
Rose Martinez –
A true masterpiece from H. Upmann. This H Upmann No.2 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!
Richard Howard –
Five stars all the way! The H. Upmann H Upmann No.2 is simply amazing. Smooth from start to finish with beautiful notes of cedar and spice. This is my go-to cigar now. Outstanding quality and flavor complexity!
Keith Dixon –
Excellent cigar from H. Upmann. The H Upmann No.2 has a refined flavor profile – lots of coffee and cream. Draw was perfect and it burned for about 68 minutes. Only minor complaint is it’s slightly strong for my taste, but overall a great smoke.
Jack Peterson –
Solid cigar from H. Upmann. The H Upmann No.2 has nice flavors of honey and tobacco and good construction. Enjoyed about 82 minutes of smooth smoking. Would recommend, especially for those new to H. Upmann.
Cheryl Chapman –
Exceptional cigar from H. Upmann. The H Upmann No.2 delivers on every level – flavor, construction, consistency. Beautiful notes of nuts and earth throughout the 52 minute smoke. This is why Cuban cigars are legendary!
Susan Richardson –
This is hands down one of the best cigars I’ve smoked this year. The H. Upmann H Upmann No.2 exceeded all expectations. Rich, creamy smoke with complex notes of nuts and earth. Construction is perfect, ash holds firm. Worth every penny!
Russell Fox –
Best cigar I’ve had in a long time! H. Upmann really knocked it out of the park with the H Upmann No.2. Rich flavor profile featuring leather and wood, perfect draw, and excellent burn. Can’t recommend this enough!
Eric Turner –
Good cigar but expected a bit more for the price. The H. Upmann H Upmann No.2 delivered on flavor (cedar and spice) and construction, but lacked the complexity I was hoping for. Solid smoke, just not outstanding. Still enjoyable.
Theresa Lawson –
Exceptional cigar from H. Upmann. The H Upmann No.2 delivers on every level – flavor, construction, consistency. Beautiful notes of cocoa and pepper throughout the 90 minute smoke. This is why Cuban cigars are legendary!
Anthony Harris –
The H. Upmann H Upmann No.2 is a quality cigar. Nice balance of flavor and strength. I enjoyed the cocoa and pepper notes throughout. Construction was very good with only one minor touch-up needed. Good cigar for experienced smokers.
Louis Webb –
Good cigar but expected a bit more for the price. The H. Upmann H Upmann No.2 delivered on flavor (honey and tobacco) and construction, but lacked the complexity I was hoping for. Solid smoke, just not outstanding. Still enjoyable.
Nicholas Allen –
Good cigar but expected a bit more for the price. The H. Upmann H Upmann No.2 delivered on flavor (nuts and earth) and construction, but lacked the complexity I was hoping for. Solid smoke, just not outstanding. Still enjoyable.
Mildred Pierce –
A true masterpiece from H. Upmann. This H Upmann No.2 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!
Jessica White –
Absolutely love this H Upmann No.2! 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!
Rebecca Cook –
Five stars all the way! The H. Upmann H Upmann No.2 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!
Michelle Adams –
Top-tier quality from H. Upmann. The H Upmann No.2 showcases everything I love about Cuban cigars – impeccable craftsmanship, smooth draw, and layers of flavor. Picked up notes of cedar and spice. Burned evenly throughout. A must-try for any serious aficionado!
Catherine Murray –
Very pleased with this H Upmann No.2. H. Upmann quality shines through with honey and tobacco flavors and solid construction. A touch expensive but worth it for special occasions. Good smoke!
Nancy Martin –
Best cigar I’ve had in a long time! H. Upmann really knocked it out of the park with the H Upmann No.2. Rich flavor profile featuring honey and tobacco, perfect draw, and excellent burn. Can’t recommend this enough!
Kathleen Cooper –
Phenomenal smoke! Been enjoying Cuban cigars for years and this H Upmann No.2 is easily one of my favorites. Beautiful wrapper, flawless construction, and about 76 minutes of pure enjoyment. The flavor profile is incredible – nuts and earth. Will definitely order more!
Philip Mason –
Incredible cigar! The H Upmann No.2 from H. Upmann is absolutely exceptional. Smooth, complex, and beautifully balanced. Got wonderful notes of honey and tobacco throughout the smoke. Lasted about 63 minutes. Already ordering another box!
Ann Crawford –
Absolutely outstanding cigar! The H. Upmann H Upmann No.2 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!
Pamela Ward –
The H. Upmann H Upmann No.2 is a quality cigar. Nice balance of flavor and strength. I enjoyed the cedar and spice notes throughout. Construction was very good with only one minor touch-up needed. Good cigar for experienced smokers.
Amanda Phillips –
Phenomenal smoke! Been enjoying Cuban cigars for years and this H Upmann No.2 is easily one of my favorites. Beautiful wrapper, flawless construction, and about 46 minutes of pure enjoyment. The flavor profile is incredible – cedar and spice. Will definitely order more!
Judith Boyd –
Really enjoyed this H Upmann No.2. H. Upmann consistently delivers quality and this is no exception. Good complexity with notes of coffee and cream. Construction was solid and burn was even. A bit pricey but you get what you pay for with Cuban cigars. Recommended!
Albert Fisher –
Five stars all the way! The H. Upmann H Upmann No.2 is simply amazing. Smooth from start to finish with beautiful notes of honey and tobacco. This is my go-to cigar now. Outstanding quality and flavor complexity!
Margaret Butler –
Absolutely outstanding cigar! The H. Upmann H Upmann No.2 delivers exceptional quality from start to finish. Rich, complex flavors with notes of nuts and earth. Perfect construction and draw. This is what premium Cuban cigars are all about. Highly recommended!
Steven Rivera –
Really enjoyed this H Upmann No.2. H. Upmann consistently delivers quality and this is no exception. Good complexity with notes of cedar and spice. Construction was solid and burn was even. A bit pricey but you get what you pay for with Cuban cigars. Recommended!
Angela Griffin –
Absolutely outstanding cigar! The H. Upmann H Upmann No.2 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!
Diane Ross –
Great cigar! H. Upmann H Upmann No.2 offers excellent quality and flavor. Notes of cocoa and pepper throughout, good burn, nice draw. Not quite perfect but very close. Will definitely order again!
Laura Bell –
Solid cigar from H. Upmann. The H Upmann No.2 has nice flavors of honey and tobacco and good construction. Enjoyed about 49 minutes of smooth smoking. Would recommend, especially for those new to H. Upmann.
Edward Coleman –
Absolutely love this H Upmann No.2! 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!