Last year, Emilio released a new limited edition called audiophile—yes, lowercase a—in a limited edition 5 x 52 robusto size. For 2023, audiophile is back, now in three sizes.

The blend remains an Ecuadorian maduro wrapper over an Ecuadorian habano binder and fillers from Nicaragua. In addition, the robusto size is back, though two other vitolas now join it.

  •  Emilio audiophile Robusto (2023) (5 x 52) — $10.50 (Box of 20, $210)
  •  Emilio audiophile Toro (2023) (6 x 50) — $11 (Box of 20, $220)
  •  Emilio audiophile Short Robusto (2023) (4 1/4 x 48) — $10.25 (Box of 20, $205)

All three vitolas are limited to 200 boxes.

The Zucca family owns Emilio, though the James Brown of Black Label Trading Co./Fábrica Oveja Negra is responsible for the blending and branding. In addition, Oveja Negra Brands distributes Emilio.

“Following its tremendous success in 2022, AUDIOPHILE returns with boldness, earthiness, and an enticing spice-forward profile,” said Brown in a press release. “It represents a noteworthy step up in strength from the existing portfolio. I am genuinely thrilled about this release, particularly with the addition of two new vitolas this year.”

audiophile will be shown off at the 2023 PCA Convention & Trade Show, which takes place July 8-11 in Las Vegas; it is expected to begin shipping in August.

Overall Score

Avatar photo

Charlie Minato

I am an editor and co-founder of halfwheel.com/Rueda Media, LLC. I previously co-founded and published TheCigarFeed, one of the two predecessors of halfwheel. I have written about the cigar industry for more than a decade, covering everything from product launches to regulation to M&A. In addition, I handle a lot of the behind-the-scenes stuff here at halfwheel. I enjoy playing tennis, watching boxing, falling asleep to the Le Mans 24, wearing sweatshirts year-round and eating gyros. echte liebe.