H. Upmann No. 2 (SEPT 2023)

HISTORY

Herman Upmann was a banker from Germany who so loved Cuban cigars that he moved to Havana in 1844 and set up as both banker and cigar maker. His bank closed in the early 1920s but his cigars live on as a fine example of an elegant, light to medium flavoured Havana.

The brand is particularly welcome in the UK as Hunters & Frankau has represented H. Upmann in Britain since the 1850s and, between 1925 and 1937, owned the factory in Havana as well as the worldwide brand rights.

Amongst the best-known H. Upmann sizes are the Magnum 46, Magnum 50 and Magnum 54. As the name suggests Magnums have heavy girths – the number represents the ring gauge of each size. Other important sizes include the Sir Winston, the Connoisseur No.1 and in smaller vitolas the Corona J and Half Corona, which was introduced in 2011.

H. Upmann’s blend is composed exclusively of filler and binder tobaccos grown in the Vuelta Abajo zone and all sizes are ‘tripa larga, totalmente a mano’ – long filler, totally handmade.

A classic Pirámide that has lived for many years, undeservedly, in the shadow of its better known half-brother the Montecristo No.2. Less punchy in taste, but distinctly aromatic with all the burning qualities that the shape bestows.

TASTING NOTES

The tapered head concentrates the smoke, emphasising notes of creamy cedar and toasted nuts. As the cigar burns, it develops subtle layers of baking spice, sweet honey, and a distinctive light floral note, finishing with a refined blend of leather and coffee bean. This is an elegant and lengthy smoke that rewards patience.

This iconic Torpedo pairs perfectly with Aged Cuban Rum, a Speyside Single Malt Scotch Whisky, or a smooth Cappuccino or Latte to accentuate the creamy texture and nutty sweetness.

CIGAR INFORMATION

Country of Origin: Cuba

Flavour profile: Light to Medium-bodied

Vitola: Piramides

Size: 52 ring gauge, 6 1/8 inches

Smoking time: 60 minutes