The E.P. Carrillo Encore Black is the darker follow-up to the original Encore line, the same blend family that earned Cigar Aficionado’s 2018 “Cigar of the Year” award with the Encore Majestic. Ernesto Perez-Carrillo created Encore Black to offer a richer and deeper smoking experience while keeping the balance and craftsmanship that made the original Encore so respected. Production is limited, with only around 5,000 boxes released annually, making it highly sought after by maduro and Broadleaf cigar smokers. The cigar has also received strong ratings from reviewers, including an 89 from Cigar Coop and praise from Halfwheel for its complexity, balance, and rich maduro character.

I smoked the E.P. Carrillo Encore Black and immediately noticed the dark Connecticut Broadleaf wrapper. The cigar looked oily, rich, and perfectly box-pressed. Construction felt solid in the hand with a smooth draw and even burn from the start.

The first few puffs gave me espresso, black pepper, oak, and dark chocolate. The smoke was thick, creamy, and full of flavor. As the cigar opened up, I picked up leather, earth, toasted wood, and a subtle sweetness from the San Andrés binder. The retrohale had spice, but it stayed balanced and refined the entire time.

What I enjoyed most about the Encore Black was the experience. It felt rich without becoming overpowering. The blend stayed smooth, flavorful, and consistent all the way through the final third. If you enjoy Broadleaf wrappers, maduro cigars, EPC blends, and bold smoke with complexity, the Encore Black absolutely delivers.

RATING

After smoking the Encore Black myself, I would personally rate it a 91/100. It was very enjoyable, and I was thinking it would be too heavy for me, but it was incredibly smooth.

Construction — 93
Excellent box-press shape, dark oily Broadleaf wrapper, firm pack, and an even burn throughout most of the smoke.

Draw & Smoke Output — 92
The draw was smooth and effortless with thick, creamy smoke production from the first puff to the finish.

Flavor — 91
Rich notes of espresso, dark chocolate, black pepper, oak, leather, and earth layered together well. The San Andrés binder added depth and spice without overpowering the blend.

Complexity — 90
The cigar transitioned nicely between darker maduro flavors and sweeter wood tones while staying balanced the entire time.

Overall Experience — 91
Encore Black delivers a refined maduro experience with premium construction, rich smoke, and excellent balance. It feels luxurious without becoming too heavy or aggressive. A strong choice for smokers who enjoy Broadleaf wrappers, EPC blends, and darker premium cigars.