Hoyo De Monterrey Rio Seco

• Vitola / Shape: Aromosos (Robusto Extra) — length approx 140 mm (~5 ½″), ring gauge 56.

• Origin & Construction: Made in Cuba, totally handmade (“totalmente a mano, tripa larga”) from Cuban wrapper, binder and filler.

• Release: Announced in 2018, released in 2019 as part of the Le Hoyo series.

• Strength / Body: Medium-bodied (often described as light-medium), offering elegance more than punch.

• Box/Packaging: Available in slide-lid boxes of 10 or cabinet boxes of 25.

Flavor Profile & Tasting Notes

• The Río Seco opens with sweet and herbaceous aromas, with a dash of pepper.

• Early flavour notes: cedar, nut, woody elements. Mid-smoke evolves into cinnamon, nutmeg, hints of caramel.

Why It Stands Out

• The size (5 ½″ × 56) makes it one of the largest regular-production Cuban vitolas in terms of ring gauge.

• It comes from the Le Hoyo series which uses Seco & Ligero leaves from the San Juan y Martínez appellation (in the famed Vuelta Abajo region) — contributing to its distinctive flavour and finesse.

• It offers an elegant option for cigar smokers who prefer medium strength but full flavour, particularly in a robust format.

• It received a 92-point rating from Cigar Aficionado in 2019, ranked #17 in their Top 25.

Storage & Smoking Tips

• Because of its size and larger gauge, allow a longer smoking session (estimate ~60-90 mins).

• Store in a humidor at ~65-70% RH and ~18-20°C (64-68°F) to preserve wrapper oils and optimal draw.

• Since the cigar is medium-bodied and flavour-rich rather than full-throttle, savour slowly to appreciate the evolving notes.

• Good pairings: A smooth whisky, aged rum, or a lightly-bodied cognac complement this cigar nicely thanks to its woody, sweet, spiced character.