The EP Carrillo Encore Majestic is a well-rounded cigar that captures Ernesto Perez Carrillo’s knack for complex flavor and masterful blending. This cigar has been hailed as a masterpiece since it was crowned Cigar Aficionado’s #1 Cigar of the Year in 2018, and it doesn’t disappoint. This is EP Carrillo’s first all-Nicaraguan creation, with carefully aged tobaccos sourced from Nicaragua’s prime growing regions: Condega, Jalapa, and Esteli. The cigar undergoes a special “tercios” fermentation process that intensifies its flavors and aromas, creating a memorable smoke.
At first glance, the Encore Majestic is rustic in character. The wrapper is a leathery, deep brown with visible veins and a slightly wrinkled texture. This soft box-pressed cigar may not have the polish of some, but it’s solidly constructed, giving a sense of Carrillo’s dedication to traditional craftsmanship.
The initial third is remarkably smooth and creamy, with a unique blend of caramel, cocoa, and toffee that immediately evokes the flavors of a Heath bar. Hints of hay and wood add an earthy layer, while soft notes of peach or apricot emerge subtly, contributing a delicate fruitiness to the profile. These flavors meld together to create a sweet, dessert-like beginning.
As the cigar develops, leather and salt join the mix, along with a rich chestnut nuttiness that’s almost nostalgic—like the warm, inviting aroma of grandma’s house at Christmastime. Gingersnap cookie notes, combined with a continued creaminess, bring a comforting, holiday-like feel to this third. Caramel and wood notes persist, while a hint of black pepper adds a mild kick without overpowering the more delicate flavors.
The final third ramps up with sea salt caramel and a bold resurgence of leather as the primary flavor. Cinnamon and black pepper intensify, enhancing the cigar’s complexity, while a hint of buttered popcorn adds a surprising twist. An underlying note of orange peel zest lingers in the background, giving the finish a subtle, citrusy edge that contrasts nicely with the spices.
The EP Carrillo Encore Majestic is a truly enjoyable smoke, showcasing impressive flavor transitions that work beautifully from start to finish. While it may not be the prettiest cigar in the humidor, it more than makes up for it with flavor and a satisfying draw. It’s versatile enough to pair with a morning coffee or an evening by the campfire, though minor burn issues noted by some STARS reviewers affected the overall score.
Overall Score: 88.75 out of 100
Overall Strength Score: 4.75 out of 10
This blind cigar review (Cigar #15-B) was scored by a panel of cigar enthusiasts, including: Rev Eldon, Jeffery Knipe, Bill F, Jeff Endrizzi, Daniel, Ruby Cannoli, Nick Garlock, Chief16., Vincent Cammarata, and MI_Cigar_and_Drink
