AshMap
Overview
The Inch by EP Carrillo Natural No. 64 Churchill stands as a definitive statement from Ernesto Perez-Carrillo Jr.'s atelier: large ring gauges, when properly constructed and blended, transcend their reputation as novelty formats and become vehicles for genuine sophistication. Launched around 2011, the Inch line emerged as EP Carrillo's focused exploration of the 64-ring-gauge platform, and this Churchill—wrapped in Ecuadorian Connecticut Shade—serves as the collection's eloquent flagship. The cigar opens with creamy cedar and toasted almonds anchored by delicate florality, a profile that deepens through the second third into roasted cashew and honey sweetness before concluding with warm leather and toasted bread. What distinguishes this smoke is not its strength—it settles comfortably in the mild-to-medium spectrum—but rather its refusal to sacrifice complexity for approachability.
Construction from the EP Carrillo factory in Estelí is, as expected, exemplary. The draw on this 7 × 64 offering exhibits that rare balance of effortlessness and subtle resistance that commands respect, while the burn line remains impressively even across its generous circumference. The ash holds firm and pale grey, a visual testament to the quality of tobacco aged in Carrillo's proprietary reserves. From first light to final ember, the smoke maintains a buttery creaminess that coats the palate without cloying—a signature hallmark of Connecticut-wrapped cigars executed at this level.
For the seasoned aficionado, the Inch Natural represents a philosophical vindication: that elegance need not whisper, and that a 7 × 64 format can deliver genuine pleasure to the discerning palate. This is not a cigar that relies on novelty or size for attention. It earns its premium standing through balanced flavor development, masterful construction, and the restraint of a blender confident enough to let premium Ecuadorian wrapper shine. At $12–$16 per stick, it occupies a sweet spot in the premium market—accessible to the committed collector yet substantial enough to reward contemplation over an unhurried afternoon.
Cigar Specifications
| Wrapper | Ecuadorian Connecticut Shade — Natural |
|---|---|
| Binder | Nicaraguan |
| Filler | Dominican and Nicaraguan long-fillers, aged tobaccos |
| Country of Origin | Estelí, Nicaragua (EP Carrillo factory operations) |
| Vitola / Shape | Churchill |
| Size | 7 x 64 |
| Strength | Medium |
| Price | $12–$16 per cigar |
| Tier | Premium |
| Aging | Aged tobaccos from Carrillo's proprietary reserves; specific aging duration not publicly disclosed |
Tasting Notes & Flavor Progression
First Third
Opens with creamy cedar and toasted almonds, backed by a gentle floral note from the Ecuadorian wrapper. White pepper emerges on the retrohale, understated but present, along with a buttery creaminess that coats the palate.
Second Third
The profile deepens into roasted cashew, light baking spice, and a mild honey sweetness. Hints of light oak and dried hay layer in as the combustion zone progresses, maintaining a smooth, even creaminess throughout.
Final Third
Finishes with warm leather, toasted bread, and a pleasant lingering sweetness. The white pepper on the retrohale reasserts itself without becoming sharp, and the finish is clean, medium-long, and satisfying.
Construction, Burn & Draw
Construction is characteristically excellent from EP Carrillo — the large 64 ring gauge draws effortlessly with a slight resistance, and the burn line stays remarkably even for its girth. Ash is firm, light grey, and holds well past an inch.
Pairing Recommendations
Spirit
Aged rum — particularly a 12-year Zacapa XO or Ron del Barrilito Three Stars — to complement the creamy sweetness without overpowering the delicate Connecticut wrapper
Wine
A lightly oaked Chardonnay from Burgundy (e.g., Mâcon-Villages) or a Viognier from the Rhône Valley to echo the floral and buttery characteristics
Non-Alcoholic
A medium-roast single-origin Colombian pour-over coffee — the nuttiness and brightness harmonize beautifully with the almond and cedar notes
Who Should Smoke This?
The Inch Natural Churchill appeals primarily to intermediate and experienced aficionados ready to explore large ring gauges without compromise. Weekend mornings and leisurely afternoon sessions are its natural habitat—plan for 1.5 to 2 hours of unrushed smoking. This is the cigar for the smoker who appreciates Connecticut wrappers but finds standard vitolas limiting; who values construction as much as flavor; and who dismisses the notion that size and refinement are mutually exclusive. Beginners with some cigar experience will find it approachable and educational, though its subtle layering rewards a seasoned palate. It's equally at home on a quiet patio solo or as conversation piece among fellow enthusiasts who recognize quality when they light it.
Bottom Line
The Inch by EP Carrillo Natural No. 64 Churchill is a masterclass in large-gauge construction and restraint—proof that big ring gauges belong in the serious aficionado's rotation. This is essential smoking for anyone ready to graduate beyond conventional wisdom and embrace genuine excellence.
Similar Cigars
Explore all Inch by EP Carrillo cigars.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Inch by EP Carrillo Natural No. 64 Churchill a strong cigar?
No. This cigar registers as mild-to-medium in strength (3/5), making it accessible for extended leisure sessions without palate fatigue. The profile prioritizes complexity and flavor nuance over power.
What does the Inch by EP Carrillo Natural No. 64 Churchill taste like?
The first third opens with creamy cedar and toasted almonds backed by gentle florality and white pepper. The second third deepens into roasted cashew, light baking spice, and honey sweetness with hints of oak and dried hay. The finish features warm leather, toasted bread, and lingering sweetness with a clean, medium-long aftertaste.
How long does the Inch by EP Carrillo Natural No. 64 Churchill take to smoke?
Expect a 1.5 to 2-hour smoke, ideal for a relaxed weekend morning or early afternoon session. The 7 × 64 Churchill vitola smokes at a measured pace while maintaining even combustion.
What is the best pairing for the Inch by EP Carrillo Natural No. 64 Churchill?
Aged rum, particularly 12-year Zacapa XO or Ron del Barrilito Three Stars, complements the creamy sweetness beautifully. For wine, a lightly oaked Burgundy Chardonnay or Rhône Viognier echoes the floral and buttery characteristics. Coffee enthusiasts should pair with a medium-roast single-origin Colombian pour-over.
Is the Inch by EP Carrillo Natural No. 64 Churchill good for beginners?
Beginners with foundational cigar experience will find it approachable and educational, though its subtle flavor layering rewards a seasoned palate. Intermediate and experienced smokers will derive maximum appreciation from its complexity.
Where can I buy the Inch by EP Carrillo Natural No. 64 Churchill?
This cigar is available through authorized premium cigar retailers and online cigar merchants. Availability varies by region; we recommend verifying stock with your preferred retailer before purchase.
What is the price of the Inch by EP Carrillo Natural No. 64 Churchill?
Individual cigars are priced between $12–$16 per stick, positioning this as an accessible premium offering relative to its construction quality and format.
Is the Inch by EP Carrillo Natural No. 64 Churchill worth aging?
The cigar arrives composed of aged tobaccos from EP Carrillo's proprietary reserves, crafted to deliver optimal flavor in the present. While further aging is theoretically possible, this is formulated for immediate enjoyment rather than extended cellaring.
What wrapper does the Inch by EP Carrillo Natural No. 64 Churchill use?
It features an Ecuadorian Connecticut Shade wrapper in the Natural color, displaying a silky texture with golden honey to light tan hues and minimal veining—hallmarks of premium shade-grown leaf.
Where is the Inch by EP Carrillo Natural No. 64 Churchill made?
The cigar is hand-rolled at the EP Carrillo factory operations in Estelí, Nicaragua, the heart of the country's tobacco-producing region. The blend incorporates Nicaraguan binder tobacco and Dominican and Nicaraguan long-filler tobaccos.