Cigars.ie

1999 Hoyo Des Dieux

The Hoyo de Monterrey Hoyo Des Dieux is one of the oldest vitolas of the brand. It was released in pre 1960 and it was bearing no band until 2005. Since 2006 it is available only on SLB cabs of 25, with the cabinets of 50 and the 5 packs discontinued in 2006. Like most Hoyos in the early days, the Hoyo Des Dieux is a slender vitola, known as “Corona Grande” and measuring 6.1″ by 42 ring gauge. On my first encounter with the Dess Dieux, I did not tink much about it, taking however in consideration that the cigar was young. The cigar reviewed today is from 1999 and I am curious to see how 11 have changed the profile of this cigar.

Appearance & Construction 11 / 15

The Hoyo Des Dieus is a cigar that has never been famous for its good appearance and this stick is no exeption. The wrapper is light brown in colour with some prominent veins and wrinkles, slightly rough on touch, gives you the impression that the cigar has been rushed through the wrapping process! The cap is flat and well made and the bunch is normal, wits some softer spots along the cigar. The prelight draw is good and very mild woody aromas are present on the foot of the cigar.

Draw & Burn 23 / 25

The cigar draws and burns perfectly all the way through, delivering plenty of thick smoke with a long finish.The ash is grey, with a yellow hue that revealing the cigar’s age, and falls off rather quickly as expected from the soft bunch. Razor sharp burn, good combustion and a pyramid shape coal, this cigar requires no more attention after the initial light.

Flavour & Body 24/25

On the initial draw, the cigar presents strong tobacco flavours. A few puffs later and wood, earth and pepper are added to the mix. The Hoyo shows a good depth and complexity, unlike the young Des Dieux that seem flat.

On the second third the cigar gets even better. An intense vanilla sweetness appears, accompanying the prominent woody and earthy flavours. The body is medium to full, with good depth. So far I am very impressed!

On the last third the cigar has even more surprises. Full bodied with a spiciness and a toasty flavour added to the complex and balanced array of flavours. Wood, earth, grass, pepper, vanilla and a lot more that I could not identify… Absolutely delicious!

Overall Impression 34 / 35

Well, were do I begin from? This cigar has me gobsmacked! It had been sitting in my humidor in  good while, not being into my first priorities. Having smoked a newer Des Dieux before that did not really give me anything to remember about, I thought this 11 year old stick would have been another mediocre smoke. Well, wasn’t I wrong? Great draw and burn, with depth and complexity that not many cigars would offer, this cigar definately tastes better than in looks! My only complaint apart from the appearance; it smokes too quick! 45 minutes, burning time, same as a demi corona on my pace. But then again, you can always smoke two! Now, where do I find a cab of 50???

TOTAL 92 / 100