AshMap
Overview
The Hoyo de Monterrey Excalibur No. 1 occupies a rare position in the premium cigar landscape: a Churchill-format smoke that refuses to apologize for its restraint. Introduced in 1978 as the flagship sub-brand positioned above Hoyo de Monterrey's core line, the Excalibur has long represented a philosophy of disciplined blending over sheer power. The No. 1 vitola—at 7.0 x 54—exemplifies this ethos perfectly, delivering a 90-minute to two-hour journey that prioritizes elegance and consistency over complexity or strength.
The cigar's architecture is straightforward but effective: an Ecuadorian Connecticut Shade wrapper in Colorado Claro—golden caramel to light honey-brown, silky and minimally veined—enrobes Honduran binder and long-filler tobaccos aged at General Cigar's Danlí factory. Hand-rolled construction ensures the draw remains effortless and the smoke dense and cool throughout. What emerges is a study in balance: creamy vanilla and toasted almond in the first third give way to roasted cashew, subtle leather, and gentle baking spice in the mid-section, before the final third introduces dried wood and toasted bread without ever burning hot or harsh. The mild-medium strength profile never wavers, making this one of the few large-format cigars that never demands physical fortitude from the smoker.
Seriousness aficionados often overlook the Excalibur No. 1, dismissing it as entry-level or crowd-pleasing. This is a mistake. What this cigar actually demonstrates is how quality Ecuadorian wrapper leaf, disciplined blending, and reliable Honduran production can achieve something genuinely satisfying at a $14–$18 price point. It is, in essence, a masterclass in restraint—proof that not every cigar must shout to be heard. For the experienced smoker who has moved past the pursuit of maximum strength and complexity, the Excalibur No. 1 is a benchmark: the cigar that reminds you why conversation, a slow afternoon, and elegant simplicity matter more than provocation.
Cigar Specifications
| Wrapper | Ecuadorian Connecticut Shade — Colorado Claro |
|---|---|
| Binder | Honduran |
| Filler | Honduran long-filler tobaccos, aged at General Cigar's Danlí factory |
| Country of Origin | Danlí, Honduras |
| Vitola / Shape | Churchill |
| Size | 7.0 x 54 |
| Strength | Mild-Medium |
| Price | $14–$18 per cigar |
| Tier | Premium |
| Aging | Tobaccos undergo moderate aging at the Danlí factory prior to rolling; not marketed as an extended-aged release |
Tasting Notes & Flavor Progression
First Third
The cold draw opens with sweet hay, light cedar, and a faint floral note characteristic of quality Connecticut Shade. Once lit, the first third delivers creamy vanilla, toasted almonds, and a gentle cedar spice that never overwhelms. There is an underlying white pepper on the retrohale that signals Honduran binder character.
Second Third
The mid-section introduces a deeper creaminess alongside roasted cashew, mild leather, and subtle baking spice — think a light dusting of nutmeg. The sweetness remains consistent, shifting toward a caramelized grain note. Complexity is restrained but elegant, with the draw producing a cool, voluminous smoke.
Final Third
The final third sees a modest increase in body, with dried wood, earth, and toasted bread emerging more prominently. The sweetness recedes slightly, replaced by a lingering cedar and mild espresso note on the finish. Strength remains controlled — this cigar never burns hot or harsh even as it approaches the nub.
Construction, Burn & Draw
Construction is consistently reliable — the draw is slightly open and effortless, producing dense, cool smoke throughout. The burn line is even with a firm, straight ash that holds reliably past an inch; touch-ups are rarely required.
Pairing Recommendations
Spirit
A light to medium-aged rum such as Ron Barceló Imperial or a 12-year Scotch lowlander like Auchentoshan 12 — spirits that echo creaminess without steamrolling the cigar's delicacy. Avoid heavily peated expressions.
Wine
A lightly oaked Chardonnay from Burgundy (e.g., Mâcon-Villages) or a white Rioja — both complement the cigar's vanilla and toasted grain notes without competing for dominance.
Non-Alcoholic
A medium-roast Colombian single-origin coffee, flat white preparation — the milk fat mirrors the cigar's creaminess and the coffee's brightness plays well against cedar and almond notes.
Who Should Smoke This?
The Excalibur No. 1 is ideal for experienced smokers who have graduated beyond the beginner phase and developed appreciation for restraint and nuance. This is not a cigar for the strength-seeker or complexity-chaser, but rather for the aficionado who values consistency, accessibility, and elegance. It suits relaxed weekend mornings, slow porch afternoons, and any occasion where the cigar serves as a companion to conversation rather than the focal point of contemplation. At 90 minutes to two hours, it fits neatly into an unhurried schedule. Beginners with some foundational experience will also find it welcoming—its mild-medium profile and reliable construction make it a safe, rewarding introduction to premium Honduran Connecticuts.
Bottom Line
The Hoyo de Monterrey Excalibur No. 1 is an undervalued masterclass in balanced, elegant cigar making—proof that restraint and quality Ecuadorian wrapper can command genuine respect without fanfare. If you've learned to appreciate what good cigars do when they refuse to shout, this Churchill is a benchmark you should not overlook.
Similar Cigars
Explore all Hoyo de Monterrey cigars.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Hoyo de Monterrey Excalibur No. 1 a strong cigar?
No. The Excalibur No. 1 is rated mild-medium (2/5 strength), making it one of the gentler large-format cigars available. It is designed for accessibility and balance rather than power, and strength never wavers throughout the smoke.
What does the Hoyo de Monterrey Excalibur No. 1 taste like?
The first third opens with creamy vanilla, toasted almonds, and gentle cedar spice. The second third adds roasted cashew, mild leather, and baking spice with a caramelized grain sweetness. The final third introduces dried wood, earth, and toasted bread with a lingering cedar and mild espresso note on the finish.
How long does the Hoyo de Monterrey Excalibur No. 1 take to smoke?
This is a 90-minute to two-hour smoke, depending on pacing and draw tightness. The Churchill vitola (7.0 x 54) is substantial enough for a leisurely session without demanding an entire afternoon.
What is the best pairing for the Hoyo de Monterrey Excalibur No. 1?
Spirits: A light to medium-aged rum like Ron Barceló Imperial or a 12-year lowland Scotch such as Auchentoshan 12. Wine: A lightly oaked Burgundian Chardonnay or white Rioja. Non-alcoholic: A medium-roast Colombian single-origin coffee prepared as a flat white.
Is the Hoyo de Monterrey Excalibur No. 1 good for beginners?
Yes, for beginners with foundational smoking experience. Its mild-medium profile, reliable construction, and consistent flavor profile make it an excellent introduction to premium Honduran Connecticuts. Absolute novices might benefit from lighter-bodied options first.
Where can I buy the Hoyo de Monterrey Excalibur No. 1?
The Excalibur No. 1 is widely available through authorized premium cigar retailers, both online and at brick-and-mortar shops. It remains a staple in the Hoyo de Monterrey portfolio.
What is the price of the Hoyo de Monterrey Excalibur No. 1?
The Excalibur No. 1 retails for approximately $14–$18 per cigar, making it an exceptional value in the premium segment.
Is the Hoyo de Monterrey Excalibur No. 1 worth aging?
The tobaccos undergo moderate aging at the Danlí factory prior to rolling, and the cigar is not marketed as an extended-aged release. While it can age gracefully in proper conditions, it is designed to be enjoyed fresh and does not require cellaring to reach its potential.
What wrapper does the Hoyo de Monterrey Excalibur No. 1 use?
An Ecuadorian Connecticut Shade wrapper in Colorado Claro shade, featuring a golden caramel to light honey-brown color. The leaf is silky with minimal veining—a hallmark of quality Connecticut Shade construction.
Where is the Hoyo de Monterrey Excalibur No. 1 made?
The Excalibur No. 1 is hand-rolled at General Cigar's premium factory in Danlí, Honduras. The long-filler tobaccos are aged at the same facility before rolling, ensuring consistent quality and character.