Educational resources on Cuban cigar heritage, brands and vitolas.

Cigar Brands

Hoyo de Monterrey: History and House Style

Founded by José Gener in 1865 and named after a Vuelta Abajo plantation, Hoyo de Monterrey is known for a lighter style.

Dried tobacco leaves hanging in a curing barn

Hoyo de Monterrey was founded in 1865 by José Gener. The name refers to a plantation in the Vuelta Abajo area, near San Juan y Martínez in Pinar del Río.

From the vega to Havana

Gener was a grower as well as a manufacturer, and the link to a named plantation reflects how closely the marque presented itself with the land. The entrance gate of the Hoyo de Monterrey plantation is a recognisable image associated with the brand.

A lighter house style

Hoyo de Monterrey is generally described as one of the lighter and more aromatic Cuban marques, which is why it is often suggested to people new to Cuban cigars. Our Cigar Strength Guide explains why such descriptions are a guide rather than a rule.

The Epicure line

The Epicure sizes are the marque’s best-known cigars, and the Epicure No. 2 — a Robusto — is especially widely known. Compare Robustos across brands in Corona vs Robusto: What’s the Difference?.

In the catalogue

See every Hoyo de Monterrey entry and the Mild end of the catalogue.

Frequently asked questions

Who founded Hoyo de Monterrey?

José Gener founded the marque in 1865.

Is Hoyo de Monterrey good for beginners?

It is often recommended to newcomers because it is generally described as lighter, but individual cigars and palates vary.

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