E.P. Carrillo Encore
Discover the award-winning E.P. Carrillo Encore—a masterfully crafted Nicaraguan puro that embodies the artistry of Ernesto Perez-Carrillo. Crowned Cigar Aficionado’s #1 Cigar of the Year in 2018 with a 96-point rating, Encore is celebrated for its exceptional balance, complexity, and smoothness. Each box-pressed cigar is meticulously rolled using only the finest aged Nicaraguan tobaccos, all married together with the traditional “tercios” fermentation method, where leaves are aged for two years in royal palm bark to achieve a refined, luxurious character.
- 96-rated and named #1 Cigar of the Year 2018 by Cigar Aficionado
- 100% Nicaraguan tobacco—wrapper, binder, and filler
- “Tercios” fermentation aging process for unmatched nuance and smoothness
- Box-pressed construction delivers a flawless draw and even burn
- Medium to full-bodied profile ideal for a wide range of palates
- Complex flavors: toasted almond, cashew, oak, caramel, earth, sweet citrus, coconut, mocha, subtle spice
- Available in several vitolas: Celestial, Valientes, Majestic, El Primero
From the first draw, Encore reveals an orchestra of flavor—think toasted nut, creamy cashew, and layers of oak with a backdrop of caramel and spice. Hints of citrus peel, dried coconut, and mocha enliven the profile as it evolves. Crafted at the Casa Carrillo factory, each cigar’s reddish-brown Jalapa wrapper gleams with oil and ensures both beauty and integrity. A smooth draw and straight burn make every encore a true celebration of Nicaraguan craft—worthy of its accolades and at home in any connoisseur’s humidor.
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Wrapper | Nicaraguan (Habano Seed, Jalapa) |
| Binder | Nicaraguan |
| Filler | Nicaraguan |
| Strength | Medium to Full |
| Origin | Dominican Republic (Casa Carrillo) |
| Fermentation | Aged in tercios (royal palm bark, 2 years) |
| Vitolas | Celestial, Valientes, Majestic, El Primero |
| Main Notes | Toasted almond, cashew, oak, caramel, earth, spice, citrus, coconut, mocha |
| Awards | 96-Rated, #1 Cigar of the Year 2018 |
| Box Pressed | Yes |
Summary
- Box Count:
- Region: Dominican Republic
- Strength: Medium to Full
- Binder: Nicaraguan
- Wrapper: Nicaraguan (Habano Seed, Jalapa)
- Filler: Nicaraguan
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes E.P. Carrillo Encore so highly rated?
Encore uses only premium aged Nicaraguan tobaccos, a proprietary two-year “tercios” fermentation, and delivers luxurious complexity worthy of top industry honors.
What can I expect in terms of flavor?
A journey of toasted almond, oak, cashew, caramel, subtle earth, and hints of citrus, coconut, mocha, and gentle spice—evolving with each puff.
Is the Encore a strong cigar?
Medium to full-bodied, Encore balances richness with smoothness—welcoming to seasoned aficionados and suitable for newer smokers ready for complexity.
Who rolls the E.P. Carrillo Encore?
Crafted by Ernesto Perez-Carrillo at Casa Carrillo in the Dominican Republic using select Nicaraguan tobaccos throughout.
What sizes are available?
The line includes Celestial, Valientes, Majestic, and El Primero—each delivering the full Encore experience in a different vitola.
What awards has it won?
Encore was crowned #1 Cigar of the Year 2018 by Cigar Aficionado (96 rating).
What is the unique aging process?
Tobaccos are aged for two years in “tercios,” which are royal palm bark bales that enhance smoothness, complexity, and richness.
What’s the draw and burn like?
Every cigar is box-pressed for a flawless, smooth draw and even burn, maximizing each session’s pleasure and consistency.








jasonr75 (verified owner) –
I’m pretty sure EPC don’t make a bid cigar. This is definitely in my top 10, if you haven’t tried these make sure you do. Definitely worth the hype. Arrived in excellent smoking condition.
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mitchdlot (verified owner) –
If you are looking for a great all around classic flavour profiled smoke this is a great choice. Consistent quality, effortless burn and medium full body. Strength is never overpowering the flavours.
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Moses Rabinowitz (verified owner) –
My favorite cigar, I have yet to experience its equal, especially for the price.
Smooth and flavorful cigar that I keep stocked in my humidor at all times. I definitely get the taste of oak, hint of cedar, vanilla, and a gentle touch of baking spices. Not always the most even burn and sometimes needs a relight, but that is most likely my fault and not a reflection of the quality of the cigar.
These have set the standard of what a cigar is supposed to be. Unless I try something better I would be hard pressed (pun intended) to say these aren’t one of the very best in the market.
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thatamsyndrome (verified owner) –
Strong punchy cigar. You can probably smoke 2 or 3 cigars before this one, and it will still punch your palate. Not for the faint of heart, but rewarding if you take your time with it.
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brianjthorne (verified owner) –
Good construction, with nice flavors of coffee with Baileys, white pepper, earth, and roasted almonds. A bit milder than Padron, with an even draw.
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John Barreto (verified owner) –
One of my all time favorite smokes, it’s a must-try
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Thiago Araújo Ferreira (verified owner) –
very strong cigar, but for me, the best of the brand
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