David Spirit - The History Behind EPC Cigars

Highly acclaimed by Cigar Aficionado, Cigar Journal, and other esteemed international publications, the EPC cigar collection commands respect from smokers everywhere. Our one and only Anthony sits down with David Spirit at the EPC Miami headquarters to discuss the making of these lines and how these were made and adapt to different palates.

With over five decades in the cigar-making industry, Perez-Carrillo has honed his craft to perfection. His factory, nestled within a free trade zone in Santiago, Dominican Republic, has been the epicenter of his cigar production for nearly 15 years, ever since he leased the space in April 2009. Over the years, this factory has produced an impressive array of cigars, including the acclaimed E.P. Carrillo Encore Majestic, which was honored as the 2018 Cigar of the Year, and the E.P. Carrillo Pledge Prequel, which took the same title in 2020. Beyond creating his own celebrated lines, Perez-Carrillo also crafts cigars on contract for Crowned Heads, showcasing his versatility and expertise in the industry.

On this occasion, David tells us a little about different cigars that have marked the experience of EP Carrillo fans, among them we can mention La Historia, Encore, Pledge, Allegiance & New Wave Connecticut.

Each of these have been awarded the highest scores, proving that they are of incredible quality and that their construction receives a lot of attention from all smokers. David tells us that the goal of EPC is that no two cigars are the same or similar, but that, being totally different, they offer equally good experiences. This makes each cigar unique in its type and construction.

EPC Carrillo - La Historia

La Historia by E.P. Carrillo, this cigar represents Ernesto's inspirations: his mother in the Cuban tobacco fields and his daughter in Miami, FL, capture the Perez-Carrillo family's journey from Cuba to the United States. They embody the family's resilience, deep-rooted traditions, and relentless pursuit of excellence, highlighting their enduring legacy in the world of cigars. This full-flavored cigar offers a rich and complex experience, with a harmonious blend of cocoa and coffee undertones.

The E-III was named the No. 2 Cigar of the Year in 2014 by Cigar Aficionado, earning an impressive rating of 95. El Senador also received high praise with a rating of 93 from Cigar Aficionado. The Parientes was celebrated as the #1 Dominican Cigar of 2021 by Cigars Lovers Magazine, and Dona Elena secured a notable rating of 93 from Cigar Aficionado. 

EPC Carrillo - Encore

E.P. Carrillo Encore, the second part of an extraordinary series. This cigar offers an invigorating blend of zesty and spicy flavors, starting with a bold peppery kick and a lively hint of citrus zest. As you smoke, the profile evolves to reveal rich, woody notes, laying down a deep, earthy base reminiscent of aged cedar and oak.

The Majestic was named the No. 1 Cigar of 2018 by Cigar Aficionado, earning an impressive rating of 96.

EPC Carrillo - Pledge

The E.P. Carrillo Pledge delivers a bold blend of spice and rich wood flavors, complemented by a touch of sweetness and a smooth coffee finish. Its intricate flavor profile is elevated by its aromatic depth. Honored as Cigar Aficionado's Cigar of the Year for 2020, the Pledge earned an outstanding rating of 98 points.

The Prequel has garnered remarkable acclaim in the cigar world, earning the prestigious title of No. 1 Cigar of the Year for 2020 from Cigar Aficionado with an exceptional rating of 98. It further solidified its reputation by being named the Best Dominican Cigar of 2021 by both Tobacco Business and Cigar Journal, as well as Cigar Dojo's Cigar of the Year for 2020. Additionally, the Sojourn received a notable rating of 91 from Cigar Aficionado Magazine, while the Apogee was praised with a rating of 93 by the same publication.

EPC Carrillo - Allegiance

In collaboration with Oliva Cigar Co., E.P. Carrillo has introduced its latest addition to the cigar lineup: Allegiance. This remarkable cigar embodies the synergy between two renowned names in the industry, blending their expertise and passion to deliver an unparalleled smoking experience.

Allegiance features a masterfully crafted 8th priming Sumatra wrapper from the esteemed Quevedo region in Ecuador. This high-quality wrapper is perfectly complemented by meticulously chosen Nicaraguan binders and fillers.

It has an incredible mix of flavors. The Sumatra wrapper offers a smooth, subtly sweet flavor, enhanced by the rich, earthy tones of the Nicaraguan tobaccos.

The Confidant earned notable recognition as the No. 5 Cigar of the Year for 2023 by Cigar Aficionado, receiving a commendable rating of 95. Additionally, it was celebrated as the No. 1 Top New Cigar of the Year by Cigar Journal.

EPC Carrillo - New Wave Connecticut