Beverages Alongside Cigars
Smokers typically enjoy a favorite
beverage when they light up, and frequently I’m asked which types of cigars
pair well with certain spirits. Since I don’t imbibe, I had to do a bit of
research. I’ve discovered that just like choosing a cigar, it boils down to
personal taste. Trust your own judgment and experiment in order to decide for
yourself. However, keep in mind that the best formula is to pair a fuller
bodied cigar with a fuller bodied wine or spirit, and likewise, a milder cigar
with a medium tasting beverage. The following are some generally accepted
suggestions for pairings:
Brandy & Cognac
Many cigar smokers consider brandy
or cognac the perfect complement to a good smoke. A light panatela such as a
Macanudo Portofino would probably be inappropriate with a 30-year-old XO
cognac. A full flavored Perdomo Edicion do Silvio Double Corona would overwhelm
a VSOP cognac. A middle of the road cognac such as Hine Cigar Reserve is
somewhere between a VSOP and an XO cognac, and has enough body to accompany
most cigars.
Scotch
The smoky quality of a fine single
malt scotch coordinates perfectly with a good cigar. Aged single malts have the
complexity and depth of flavor to stand up to a fine cigar. A lesser-aged
scotch would go well with a mild- to medium-bodied cigar such as the
Montecristo Number 2 Torpedo. At the end of an evening, pair the 18-year-old
Macallan scotch with a Hoyo de Monterrey Dark Sumatra.
Port
The sweetness of a vintage port
blends perfectly with a full-bodied smoke. Even a younger vintage port will not
be overwhelmed by a spicy smoke. Non-vintage varieties, such as a tawny port,
also complement a cigar nicely. A full-bodied smoke like the Arturo Fuente Double
Chateau Maduro marries extremely well with a vintage port.
Wines
Wine is not as common a cigar
companion as other spirits, but it can do the trick if that’s what you enjoy.
Once again, choose a full-bodied merlot or cabernet with a full-bodied cigar
such as the CAO Brazilia Amazon or one of CAO’s new Italia series. A Rocky
Patel Vintage Series 90 or 92 cigar pairs well with a milder, medium-bodied
Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc. Don’t be afraid to experiment, and don’t shy
away from returning to the experiences you enjoyed. Partaking in a good cigar
and an equally good drink is about tradition and taste, which you must develop
on your own. Personally, my favorite pairing is a double shot of espresso with
a twist and a Padron 4000 Maduro.
