AshMap
Overview
The Inch by EP Carrillo Natural No. 64 Toro represents a masterclass in vitola engineering — a cigar designed not despite its 64 ring gauge, but because of it. Ernesto Perez-Carrillo introduced the Inch line in 2012 as a deliberate study in oversized proportions, proving that girth need not compromise sophistication. The Natural No. 64 stands as one of the line's defining expressions, a medium-strength smoke that leverages its generous dimensions to deliver complexity without fatigue.
From first light, the Ecuadorian Connecticut wrapper announces itself with toasted almonds, fresh cream, and a measured white pepper on the retrohale, layered beneath hints of grassy sweetness and cedarwood. The architecture here is intentional: the wide ring gauge slows combustion, keeping the blend cool and allowing the interplay between Dominican binder and a marriage of Dominican and Nicaraguan long-filler tobaccos to unfold methodically. By the second third, the profile settles into baking spice and cashew, with a honey note emerging as the cigar finds its rhythm — a signature moment that separates competent blends from thoughtful ones.
The construction is exemplary. Ash holds firm in one-inch columns, the draw remains effortless throughout, and the burn line tracks with impressive consistency. The final third introduces dry oak and leather while maintaining a thread of sweetness, a gentle crescendo rather than a dramatic shift. What emerges across the full 90–110 minute experience is a cigar that respects the smoker's time without demanding intense focus — an everyday luxury that contradicts the notion that large ring gauges are unwieldy or one-dimensional. At the $10–$14 price point, the Inch Natural punches decisively above its tier, delivering the hand-rolled precision and flavor coherence more commonly associated with premium-priced offerings.
Cigar Specifications
| Wrapper | Ecuadorian Connecticut (Natural) — Natural |
|---|---|
| Binder | Dominican Republic |
| Filler | Dominican Republic and Nicaraguan long-filler tobaccos |
| Country of Origin | Villa González, Santiago, Dominican Republic (EP Carrillo factory) |
| Vitola / Shape | Toro |
| Size | 6 x 64 |
| Strength | Medium |
| Price | $10–$14 per cigar |
| Tier | Everyday |
| Aging | Tobaccos aged prior to rolling; no stated extended post-production aging |
Tasting Notes & Flavor Progression
First Third
The opening delivers toasted almonds, fresh cream, and a mild white pepper on the retrohale. There's a pleasant grassy sweetness characteristic of Ecuadorian Connecticut wrappers, layered with light cedarwood.
Second Third
The blend settles into baking spice, cashew, and mild creaminess with a subtle honey note emerging mid-smoke. The wide ring gauge tempers combustion heat and keeps the profile smooth and balanced.
Final Third
The final third introduces a gentle leather and dry oak character while maintaining sweetness. Pepper picks up slightly on the retrohale but never overwhelms; the finish is clean with lingering cream and toasted nuts.
Construction, Burn & Draw
Construction is excellent — the large 64 ring gauge provides an effortless, open draw with generous smoke volume. Burn line is typically even, ash holds firm in one-inch columns, and the cigar runs cool throughout its generous smoking time.
Pairing Recommendations
Spirit
Aged rhum agricole (Rhum J.M 12-Year) or a light Highland single malt Scotch such as Glenmorangie Original — the creamy, grassy profile mirrors the wrapper's character without overpowering it
Wine
White Burgundy (Meursault) or an oaked Chardonnay from the Sonoma Coast — the buttery, light-oak notes complement the Connecticut wrapper beautifully
Non-Alcoholic
A medium-roast Colombian pour-over coffee or a lightly sweetened horchata — both echo the almond and cream notes of the first third
Who Should Smoke This?
This cigar is ideal for smokers new to large ring gauges who harbor justified skepticism about whether size equals substance. It's equally suited to seasoned aficionados seeking a nuanced, low-commitment daily smoke that doesn't demand a full evening. The approachable medium strength makes it accessible to intermediate smokers; the flavor complexity rewards experienced palates. Its 90–110 minute smoking window fits a relaxed afternoon or early evening ritual perfectly — long enough to develop narrative arc, short enough to fit practical schedules. Pairing enthusiasts will appreciate its versatility with rhum agricole, Highland single malts, and quality coffee.
Bottom Line
The Inch Natural No. 64 is Perez-Carrillo at his finest — a wide-gauge cigar that proves proportion enhances rather than detracts from refinement. At this price, it's an essential addition to any humidor and the definitive gateway cigar for ring-gauge skeptics.
Similar Cigars
Explore all Inch by EP Carrillo cigars.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Inch by EP Carrillo Natural No. 64 Toro a strong cigar?
No. It's classified as medium strength (3 out of 5), making it approachable for intermediate smokers while maintaining enough body to satisfy seasoned aficionados. The wide 64 ring gauge tempers combustion heat and keeps the profile smooth throughout.
What does the Inch Natural No. 64 taste like?
The first third opens with toasted almonds, fresh cream, and white pepper, backed by grassy sweetness and light cedarwood from the Ecuadorian Connecticut wrapper. The second third introduces baking spice, cashew, and a subtle honey note. The final third adds dry oak and leather while maintaining sweetness, with pepper picking up slightly on the retrohale.
How long does the Inch Natural No. 64 take to smoke?
Expect a leisurely 90–110 minute smoke. The generous 6 x 64 dimensions and cool burn make it ideal for extended sessions without rushing or fatigue.
What is the best pairing for the Inch Natural No. 64?
Aged rhum agricole (such as Rhum J.M 12-Year) or Highland single malt Scotch complement the creamy, grassy profile beautifully. Wine lovers should consider white Burgundy or oaked Chardonnay from Sonoma Coast. For non-alcoholic options, a medium-roast Colombian pour-over coffee or lightly sweetened horchata echo the cigar's almond and cream notes.
Is the Inch Natural No. 64 good for beginners?
Yes, particularly for those intimidated by large ring gauges. The medium strength and creamy, balanced profile make it accessible to intermediate smokers, while the construction excellence and flavor coherence reward any experience level.
Where can I buy the Inch by EP Carrillo Natural No. 64 Toro?
The Inch Natural No. 64 is widely distributed through licensed cigar retailers, both online and brick-and-mortar. Availability varies by region; specialty shops and established online merchants typically maintain stock of EP Carrillo releases.
What is the price of the Inch Natural No. 64?
The retail price ranges from $10–$14 per cigar. Boxes of 20 offer standard wholesale pricing proportional to individual stick cost. This positions it firmly in the everyday tier despite its premium construction and flavor profile.
Is the Inch Natural No. 64 worth aging?
The tobaccos used in this cigar are aged prior to rolling. There is no stated extended post-production aging protocol. While proper humidor storage will maintain its character, it is designed as an immediately enjoyable, ready-to-smoke expression rather than a cellar candidate.
What wrapper does the Inch Natural No. 64 use?
The cigar features an Ecuadorian Connecticut wrapper in natural shade — a golden caramel to light tan with a satiny sheen and minimal veining. This wrapper contributes the signature grassy sweetness and light cedarwood notes characteristic of the blend.
Where is the Inch Natural No. 64 made?
Hand-rolled at the EP Carrillo factory in Villa González, Santiago, Dominican Republic. The Inch line was introduced in 2012 by Ernesto Perez-Carrillo as a showcase of oversized ring gauges, with the No. 64 emerging as one of the line's defining vitolas.