AshMap
Overview
The Inch by EP Carrillo Natural No. 64 Belicoso represents a masterclass in oversized ring gauge design—proof that Ernesto Perez-Carrillo's thesis about the 64-ring format need not sacrifice nuance for volume. Launched as the flagship natural expression of the Inch line, this cigar challenges the prevailing assumption that big vitolas deliver diluted flavor profiles. Instead, what unfolds is a deliberate, creamy meditation on balance: the Ecuadorian Connecticut wrapper—golden hay to light caramel in color—opens the experience with delicate floral sweetness and white pepper, while aged Nicaraguan and Dominican long-fillers provide subtle complexity without overwhelming the palate.
The belicoso taper on a 64-ring gauge is an audacious engineering choice, and one that pays real dividends in execution. The pronounced tip forces a slower, more controlled burn, allowing the various flavor layers to develop sequentially rather than converge into an undifferentiated whole. The draw remains open and generous—a prerequisite for cigars of this diameter—yet never feels loose or compromised. The burn is even and deliberate, producing a dense ash that holds firm, a sign of quality construction from the EP Carrillo factory in Villa González.
What makes the Inch Natural particularly compelling is its restraint. This is a medium-bodied cigar in an era when ring gauges have become synonymous with power. The progression from creamy cedar and toasted almonds through cashew and soft leather, culminating in gentle earthiness and toasted bread, unfolds with narrative clarity. The final third introduces just enough pepper and cedar definition to keep the finish engaging without tipping into harshness. At 80–90 minutes, it demands time and respect—the kind of smoke that rewards a relaxed afternoon and reveals itself to those patient enough to listen.
Cigar Specifications
| Wrapper | Ecuadorian Connecticut (Natural) — Natural |
|---|---|
| Binder | Nicaraguan |
| Filler | Nicaraguan and Dominican long-fillers, aged |
| Country of Origin | Villa González, Dominican Republic (EP Carrillo factory) |
| Vitola / Shape | Belicoso |
| Size | 6.0 x 64 |
| Strength | Medium |
| Price | $14–$18 per cigar |
| Tier | Everyday |
| Aging | Tobaccos are aged prior to rolling; no extended post-production aging publicly documented |
Tasting Notes & Flavor Progression
First Third
The generous ring gauge opens slowly with creamy cedar, light toasted almonds, and a pleasant floral sweetness from the Ecuadorian Connecticut wrapper. White pepper emerges at the back of the palate — mild but present — with a clean, grassy undertone that keeps the profile bright and inviting.
Second Third
Cream and nut notes deepen into cashew and light baking spice, with soft leather weaving in gradually. A mild sweetness reminiscent of hay and light honey develops, and the draw becomes particularly satisfying as the belicoso taper begins to burn through fully.
Final Third
The final third introduces a gentle earthiness and toasted bread quality without sacrificing the creamy base. Pepper builds slightly in the retrohale while the cedar note returns with more definition. The finish is clean, medium-length, with a lingering nut and cream character.
Construction, Burn & Draw
The large 64-ring format demands a proper cut — a wide-gauge cutter is essential. Once lit, the burn is even and deliberate, producing a dense, slightly loose ash that holds to about an inch. Draw is open and effortless, delivering voluminous smoke production.
Pairing Recommendations
Spirit
Aged rum (Ron Zacapa 23 or Diplomatico Reserva Exclusiva) — the sweetness complements the wrapper's creaminess without overwhelming it. A light wheated bourbon like W.L. Weller Special Reserve also works beautifully.
Wine
A light-bodied Pinot Noir from Willamette Valley (Oregon) or a dry Viognier — the wrapper's floral notes align well with aromatic whites or delicate reds.
Non-Alcoholic
A medium-roast single-origin Colombian coffee, black or with a touch of cream — the nut and cedar notes in the cigar mirror the coffee's natural sweetness and brightness.
Who Should Smoke This?
Ideal for experienced aficionados who appreciate medium-bodied profiles and have grown fatigued by full-bodied Nicaraguan puros. This cigar is an excellent entry point into the Inch line for natural-wrapper enthusiasts seeking volume without heaviness. The belicoso taper and large ring gauge demand a proper wide-gauge cutter and patient technique, making it best suited to smokers with foundational knowledge. The 80–90 minute smoke duration makes it perfect for a leisurely afternoon or early evening session where you can fully engage with its subtle evolution without rushing.
Bottom Line
The Inch Natural No. 64 Belicoso is EP Carrillo's elegant argument that big ring gauges deserve respect, not dismissal. It's a standout everyday cigar that proves oversized formats can deliver sophistication—and at $14–$18 per stick, it's an exceptional value for the experience.
Similar Cigars
Explore all Inch by EP Carrillo cigars.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Inch Natural No. 64 Belicoso a strong cigar?
No. Rated at 3/5 in strength, this is a medium-bodied cigar. It's specifically designed for smokers who find full-bodied Nicaraguan puros fatiguing, making it an ideal choice for those seeking flavor without intensity.
What does the Inch Natural No. 64 Belicoso taste like?
The experience unfolds in three distinct phases: creamy cedar, toasted almonds, and floral sweetness in the opening; deepening cashew, baking spice, and soft leather in the middle; and gentle earthiness, toasted bread, and returning cedar in the final third. Throughout, nut and cream notes provide a cohesive backbone.
How long does the Inch Natural No. 64 Belicoso take to smoke?
Plan for 80–90 minutes. The large 64-ring gauge and deliberate burn require patience, making this an ideal cigar for a relaxed afternoon or early evening session where you can let it breathe without rushing.
What is the best pairing for the Inch Natural No. 64 Belicoso?
Aged rum—such as Ron Zacapa 23 or Diplomatico Reserva Exclusiva—complements the wrapper's creaminess beautifully. For wine, consider a light-bodied Pinot Noir from Willamette Valley or a dry Viognier. Black coffee or coffee with cream also pairs excellently with its nut and cedar notes.
Is the Inch Natural No. 64 Belicoso good for beginners?
Not ideally. While the medium strength is approachable, the large 64-ring gauge requires proper technique—specifically a wide-gauge cutter and patience with burn management. Experienced smokers will get more from this cigar's nuanced profile.
Where can I buy the Inch Natural No. 64 Belicoso?
The Inch line is widely distributed through authorized premium cigar retailers. Check with your local tobacconist or established online cigar merchants for availability and current inventory.
What is the price of the Inch Natural No. 64 Belicoso?
Retail pricing ranges from $14–$18 per cigar, positioning it as an exceptional everyday value given its construction quality and flavor complexity.
Is the Inch Natural No. 64 Belicoso worth aging?
No extended post-production aging is publicly documented for this line. The tobaccos are aged prior to rolling, so the cigar is ready to enjoy upon purchase. Additional aging is not recommended as a standard practice.
What wrapper does the Inch Natural No. 64 Belicoso use?
An Ecuadorian Connecticut wrapper in natural shade, displaying a golden hay to light caramel color with a silky texture and subtle sheen. This wrapper contributes the cigar's creamy opening and floral sweetness.
Where is the Inch Natural No. 64 Belicoso made?
Hand-rolled at the EP Carrillo factory in Villa González, Dominican Republic. The cigar features Nicaraguan binder and a blend of aged Nicaraguan and Dominican long-fillers, showcasing Ernesto Perez-Carrillo's signature construction standards.