AshMap
Overview
The Encore by E.P. Carrillo Natural Toro stands as a masterclass in restraint—a cigar that refuses to shout for attention yet commands respect through understated excellence. E.P. Carrillo built his reputation on delivering craft-level construction and flavor balance at every price tier, and the Encore line, launched around 2013, crystallizes this philosophy. The Natural Toro proves that accessible pricing need not compromise on the fundamentals: hand-rolled construction at the brand's Estelí facility, a harmonious blend of Ecuadorian Connecticut wrapper with Nicaraguan binder and filler tobacco from Jalapa and Estelí, and a medium strength profile that invites rather than demands.
From the first draw, the Natural Toro announces itself with creamy, welcoming character—toasted cashew and hay notes emerge cleanly, complemented by gentle cedar and a whisper of white pepper on the retrohale. The construction is immediately apparent: the draw opens effortlessly, the burn line tracks with precision, and the ash holds firm in neat one-inch increments. As the smoke transitions into the second third, subtle complexity unfolds. Sweet cream and almond notes drift across the palate while floral honey and mild baking spice build without overwhelming the delicate profile. The final third brings only a modest increase in body—toasted oak and dry cocoa arrive as whispers rather than declarations, and the creaminess persists, leaving a pleasant, nutty finish that feels earned rather than contrived.
What makes the Encore Natural Toro remarkable is not what it claims but what it delivers: genuine satisfaction without pretense. This is not a cigar designed to impress through complexity or power. Instead, it occupies a quiet space in the market—a contemplative 60 to 75-minute smoke that asks nothing of the aficionado except presence. For those seeking a reliably constructed, genuinely pleasant Connecticut that fits comfortably into a morning routine or early afternoon respite, the Natural Toro delivers measurably more than its $12–$16 price tag suggests. It is precisely the kind of cigar that separates true craft from marketing noise.
Cigar Specifications
| Wrapper | Ecuadorian Connecticut — Natural |
|---|---|
| Binder | Nicaraguan |
| Filler | Nicaraguan (Jalapa, Estelí) |
| Country of Origin | Estelí, Nicaragua |
| Vitola / Shape | Toro |
| Size | 6 x 52 |
| Strength | Medium |
| Price | $12–$16 per cigar |
| Tier | Everyday |
| Aging | Tobaccos aged prior to blending; no extended post-production aging noted |
Tasting Notes & Flavor Progression
First Third
The opening presents a clean, creamy creaminess with toasted cashew and hay. A gentle cedar note emerges alongside light white pepper on the retrohale. The profile is smooth and immediately approachable.
Second Third
The midsection evolves with notes of sweet cream, almonds, and a touch of floral honey. A mild baking spice builds subtly on the finish without overwhelming the gentle character of the Ecuadorian Connecticut wrapper.
Final Third
The final third brings a slight increase in body with emerging toasted oak and a hint of dry cocoa. Creaminess persists throughout, and the smoke remains comfortable and clean with a pleasant, nutty finish.
Construction, Burn & Draw
Construction is consistent with E.P. Carrillo's standards — draw is open and effortless, burn line remains even with minimal touchups required, and the ash holds firm in one-inch increments with a light gray column.
Pairing Recommendations
Spirit
Light rum such as Plantation 3 Stars or a mellow bourbon like Buffalo Trace — avoid heavily peated or high-proof spirits that would overwhelm this delicate profile
Wine
Lightly oaked Chardonnay or a dry Viognier — the wine's stone fruit and floral qualities complement the wrapper's creaminess without clashing
Non-Alcoholic
A medium-roast Colombian coffee with milk — the dairy and mild acidity mirror the cigar's creamy, nutty character perfectly
Who Should Smoke This?
The Encore Natural Toro is ideal for newer aficionados seeking an entry point into quality hand-rolled cigars without intimidation or steep investment. Experienced smokers will appreciate it as a low-demand, low-commitment session—perfect for mornings, early afternoons, or occasions when you want genuine pleasure without the focus required of full-bodied or complex blends. This is the cigar you reach for when you want 75 minutes of undemanding satisfaction: reliable construction, pleasant flavor, and the confidence that E.P. Carrillo's standards are being met at an everyday price. It suits anyone who values substance over spectacle.
Bottom Line
The Encore Natural Toro is a sleeper in the budget natural category—a genuinely well-crafted, satisfying smoke that proves everyday cigars need not compromise on construction or flavor balance. At $12–$16, it delivers authentic E.P. Carrillo craftsmanship without the premium tier price tag, making it an essential addition to any thoughtful humidor.
Similar Cigars
Explore all Encore cigars.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Encore by E.P. Carrillo Natural Toro a strong cigar?
No. The Natural Toro is rated at medium strength (3 out of 5), making it accessible and approachable rather than challenging. It's ideal for smokers who prefer balance and subtlety over full-bodied power.
What does Encore by E.P. Carrillo Natural Toro taste like?
The profile opens with creamy notes of toasted cashew and hay, with gentle cedar and white pepper. The middle evolves into sweet cream, almonds, and floral honey, while the final third adds toasted oak and dry cocoa. Throughout, creaminess and a pleasant nuttiness persist.
How long does Encore by E.P. Carrillo Natural Toro take to smoke?
The Natural Toro, at 6 x 52, burns for approximately 60–75 minutes, making it suitable for a morning or early afternoon session without excessive time commitment.
What is the best pairing for Encore by E.P. Carrillo Natural Toro?
Light rum such as Plantation 3 Stars or mellow bourbon like Buffalo Trace complements the cigar's delicate profile. Wine-wise, try a lightly oaked Chardonnay or dry Viognier. For non-alcoholic pairing, a medium-roast Colombian coffee with milk mirrors the creamy, nutty character perfectly.
Is Encore by E.P. Carrillo Natural Toro good for beginners?
Yes. The moderate strength, approachable flavor profile, and impeccable construction make it an excellent introduction to hand-rolled cigars. It's complex enough to satisfy but welcoming enough to invite newcomers.
Where can I buy Encore by E.P. Carrillo Natural Toro?
As a mainstream Carrillo offering, the Natural Toro should be available through authorized cigar retailers, both online and brick-and-mortar establishments. Availability varies by region.
What is the price of Encore by E.P. Carrillo Natural Toro?
The Natural Toro retails for $12–$16 per cigar, positioning it firmly in the everyday/budget category while maintaining hand-rolled quality and construction standards.
Is Encore by E.P. Carrillo Natural Toro worth aging?
The tobaccos are aged prior to blending, and no extended post-production aging is required. While aging may subtly mellow the profile, this is an everyday cigar designed for immediate enjoyment rather than cellar investment.
What wrapper does Encore by E.P. Carrillo Natural Toro use?
The Natural Toro features an Ecuadorian Connecticut wrapper in natural shade, presenting a medium golden-tan color with silky texture and subtle sheen.
Where is Encore by E.P. Carrillo Natural Toro made?
The Natural Toro is hand-rolled at E.P. Carrillo's facility in Estelí, Nicaragua. The binder and filler tobaccos are also sourced from Nicaragua (Jalapa and Estelí regions).