EP Carrillo — Heritage & History

E.P. Carrillo is the eponymous brand of Ernesto Perez-Carrillo Jr., a third-generation cigar maker whose family roots trace back to Cuba. In 1997, the Carrillo family founded their own factory, Tabacalera La Alianza, in the Villa González region of the Dominican Republic. The brand first gained widespread acclaim with the release of the E.P. Carrillo Short Run series, but it was the 2009 debut of the Core Line that cemented its reputation. Ernesto’s approach — blending traditional Cuban techniques with Dominican craftsmanship — quickly set the brand apart. In 2010, the original E.P. Carrillo Edición Inaugural earned the #1 Cigar of the Year from *Cigar Aficionado*, a landmark achievement for a boutique producer. The brand has since expanded with iconic lines like the Encore, La Historia, Pledge, and New Wave series, each offering distinct expressions while maintaining Carrillo’s signature balance. Today, E.P. Carrillo is considered a pillar of the modern premium cigar industry, revered for consistency, innovation, and deep respect for legacy.

Blending Philosophy

E.P. Carrillo’s blending philosophy centers on harmony and accessibility without sacrificing complexity. Ernesto Perez-Carrillo Jr. favors Nicaraguan and Ecuadorian wrappers — including Habano, Maduro, and Connecticut Shade — layered over Dominican binders and fillers grown in the Villa González region. His goal is to create cigars that are balanced, consistent, and approachable to both seasoned enthusiasts and newcomers. The brand is distinctive for its meticulous fermentation and aging protocols, as well as its willingness to experiment with limited runs and special wrappers. The result is a portfolio that spans mild-medium to medium-full strength, with each blend delivering a clean, refined core of flavor that avoids harshness or over-powering spice.

Flavor Profile

Across its range, E.P. Carrillo cigars are characterized by a core profile of earth, cocoa, cedar, and subtle spice. The Encore line offers rich notes of dark chocolate, leather, and black pepper, while La Historia Maduro adds a sweet-savory dimension of espresso and dried fruit from its San Andrés wrapper. The Pledge series leans into a creamy, peppery complexity with hints of nutmeg and toasted oak. New Wave Connecticut delivers a softer, creamier smoke with gentle notes of almond, white pepper, and hay. The Dusk and Short Run releases often feature a bolder, earth-forward character with dark fruit and molasses undertones. Across the board, the brand is praised for a smooth, medium-bodied finish that never becomes bitter or aggressive.

Best for Beginners

For a newcomer, the New Wave Connecticut Sublime is an ideal entry point. Its Ecuadorian Connecticut Shade wrapper delivers a mild-to-medium body with creamy, nutty notes and a whisper of white pepper. The smoke is smooth, forgiving, and never overwhelming — a perfect introduction to premium cigar texture and flavor without the intensity of fuller blends.

EP Carrillo Cigar Lineup

Explore 12 EP Carrillo cigars in the AshMap encyclopedia:

Frequently Asked Questions

Where are EP Carrillo cigars made?

EP Carrillo cigars are made in the Dominican Republic, primarily at the company's own facility in Villa González — specifically at the TABDOM factory (formerly known as La Zona and La Alianza). Some production has also taken place at the La Romana Cigars S.A. factory. All cigars are Dominican puros in terms of construction, though many use Nicaraguan and Ecuadorian wrapper tobaccos.

What is EP Carrillo known for?

EP Carrillo is known for its consistent, balanced blends that combine Cuban-influenced tradition with Dominican craftsmanship. The brand earned the #1 Cigar of the Year in 2010 (Edición Inaugural) and again later with the Pledge Prequel. They are also recognized for pioneering the Short Run series and for producing some of the most highly rated medium-to-medium-full cigars on the market.

Are EP Carrillo cigars strong?

Most EP Carrillo cigars are medium to medium-full in strength. They are rarely overpowering; the signature is smooth, balanced body rather than raw nicotine punch. Lines like the Encore and La Historia are fuller in flavor but remain accessible. The New Wave Connecticut is noticeably milder, making the brand suitable for a wide range of palates.

What is the best EP Carrillo cigar for beginners?

The New Wave Connecticut Sublime is the best beginner choice. Its Ecuadorian Connecticut Shade wrapper yields a mild-medium smoke with creamy, nutty, and delicately peppery notes. It is approachable in strength and flavor, offering a smooth introduction to premium handmade cigars without overwhelming a new smoker.

How much do EP Carrillo cigars cost?

EP Carrillo cigars range from about $10 to $24 per cigar, depending on the line and vitola. Entry-level blends like the Round Two Robusto start around $10–$14, while flagship releases like the Encore Majestic and La Historia Maduro Toro range $18–$24. Most core blends fall between $12 and $22.

What wrapper does EP Carrillo use?

EP Carrillo employs a wide variety of wrappers across its portfolio, including Nicaraguan Habano (including Jalapa Valley selections), Ecuadorian Habano, Ecuadorian Habano Maduro, Connecticut Shade (USA and Ecuadorian), Mexican San Andrés Maduro, and Ecuadorian Connecticut Habano. Different lines utilize different wrappers to achieve specific flavor profiles.

Are EP Carrillo cigars Cuban?

No, EP Carrillo cigars are not Cuban. They are made in the Dominican Republic by Ernesto Perez-Carrillo Jr., whose family has Cuban heritage. The brand draws on Cuban blending traditions but uses Dominican, Nicaraguan, and Ecuadorian tobaccos — it is a proud, non-Cuban premium cigar brand.

Where can I buy EP Carrillo cigars?

EP Carrillo cigars are widely available at premium cigar retailers across the United States and internationally, both in brick-and-mortar shops and online. Authorized online retailers include major platforms like Famous Smoke Shop, Cigar Page, Atlantic Cigar, and Neptune Cigar. Always verify the seller is an authorized dealer to ensure authenticity.