Illusione Epernay
Illusione
Product Information
- Manufacturer
- Illusione
- Country of Origin
- Nicaragua
- Wrapper
- Corojo '99
- Binder
- Nicaraguan
- Filler
- Nicaraguan
- Factory
- Aganorsa Leaf
- Strength
- Medium
- Vitola / Size
- Le Grande (6 3/4" x 48)
- MSRP
- —
- Competition Record
- 1-2
- Result
- Eliminated in Group Stage
- Final Placement
- Eliminated in Group Stage
Competition Performance
Illusione Epernay finished the group stage with a 1-2 record, highlighted by a victory over HVC Selección No. 1. Despite early elimination, the cigar demonstrated the refined complexity that has made the Epernay line highly respected among premium cigar enthusiasts.
Competition Matchups
Ashology™ Assessment
Official evaluation across six categories — maximum Ashology™ Score 30 / 30.
- star Excellent craftsmanship
- star Consistent burn
- star Smooth draw
- star Refined character
- star Balanced profile
- star Official tournament selection
Illusione Epernay earned its place in the Official Field of 32 by delivering quality construction and a refined overall smoking experience. Its performance throughout Group E reflected the high standards expected of an elite premium cigar competing on the national stage.
Ashology™ Smoking Experience
- Cold Draw
- Hay, floral notes, cedar and mild sweetness.
- First Third
- Cream, cedar, white pepper, floral notes and black tea produce a delicate beginning.
- Second Third
- Almond, honey and toasted bread add richness without excessive strength.
- Final Third
- Cedar and pepper become more noticeable while floral sweetness remains.
- Construction
- Refined draw, clean burn and elegant smoke production.
- Finish
- Clean, floral and medium in length.
- Ashology Assessment
- Subtle, sophisticated and gracefully balanced.
Final Verdict
The Illusione Epernay offered elegance and subtle complexity rather than power. Its refined character was impressive, although the advancing Group E cigars created a stronger overall competitive impact.
Tasting notes reflect the cigar and vitola evaluated during the 2026 Cigar of the Year competition. Flavor, strength and burn performance may vary based on storage conditions, age, vitola and individual palate. Tobacco products are intended only for adults of legal smoking age.
