Earlier this year, E.P. Carrillo announced Escapade, a project where the company is turning to its consumers to determine an upcoming limited-release blend. Last week, the company announced the release of the E.P. Carrillo Escapade three-pack. This consists of three blends where consumers will decide what the limited-release blend will be.

Escapade is the second project driven by consumer input. Last year, the E.P. Carrillo Platinum Bash was released to commemorate Ernesto Perez-Carrillo‘s 70th birthday. For that project, Perez-Carrillo provided three unreleased blends. Escapade has worked a little differently. This project started earlier this year as E.P. Carrillo launched a series of Zoom sessions where consumers were able to provide input. In particular, Perez-Carrillo sought input on a cigar aimed at a new smoker.

From the input sessions, three bands were chosen:  Nicaraguan Corojo ’99, Ecuadorian Connecticut Shade, and Ecuadorian Habano wrapper. One of each of the blends in a 6 x 52 format is being made available in the three-pack sampler. The other details of the blend are not being disclosed, and although there are bands on the cigars, which cigar has which wrapper will not be disclosed at first.

From November 1- December 31, 2023, consumers who attend an E.P. Carrillo event will receive the three-pack automatically.For those not able to attend events, they can send a photo of a box purchase receipt of any E.P. Carrillo cigars to info@epccigar.com purchased between November 1 and December 31, 2023. The company will then mail out the Escapade three-pack. Inside each pack is a QR code, allowing consumers to vote for their favorite blend.

In addition, Lissette Perez-Carrillo will also be hosting additional Zoom sessions to connect directly with consumers for additional feedback.

“I was excited to work on these blends because I felt challenged to create a mild cigar that perhaps I am not known for. I kept in mind what beginning smokers are looking for in a cigar, while at the same time staying true to the complexity our current smokers enjoy, to offer them an alternative to our regular lines,” said Ernesto Perez-Carrillo in a statement.

“The E.P. Carrillo Escapade has been such a fun project. We anticipate that new smokers and seasoned smokers alike will enjoy these blends. We have made it a priority to listen and engage with consumers to elevate their smoking experience.” added Lissette Perez-Carrillo.

A total of 1,000 three-packs were released. The blend with the most votes will be made The winner will be made into a 1,000-box limited edition release in 2024.