The Ultimate Guide to Pairing Drinks with Premium Cigars
Raise your glasses and light your cigars, my friends, because today we are embarking on a delectable voyage through the harmonious world of cigar and drink pairings. Whether you’re a seasoned aficionado or a curious newcomer, this ultimate guide will equip you with the savoir-faire to pair like a pro. Ready? Let’s dive in!
Setting Sail: Understanding the Basics
Pairing cigars with drinks is an art form. The goal? To find combinations where both the cigar and the drink enhance each other’s finest qualities. Here’s your compass: always consider the body and flavor profile of both the cigar and the drink. A harmonious pairing is one where neither overpowers the other.
Whiskey – The Classic Companion
There’s a reason whiskey and cigars are a classic pairing – they’re the Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers of the indulgence world. For a full-bodied cigar, opt for a rich, robust bourbon. If your cigar is more on the mellow side, a lighter, smoother single malt Scotch can be your winner.
Pro Pair:
• Full-Bodied Cigar: Padron Serie 1926
• Drink: A neat glass of Woodford Reserve Bourbon
Coffee – The Daytime Delight
Coffee and cigars? Yes, please! The natural bitterness of coffee can be an excellent counterpoint to the rich, earthy flavors of a cigar. For a medium-bodied cigar, a strong espresso or Americano is fantastic. Pairing a mellow cigar with a creamy latte or cappuccino? Heavenly.
Pro Pair:
• Medium-Bodied Cigar: Arturo Fuente Hemingway
• Drink: Freshly brewed Espresso
Rum – The Taste of the Tropics
Rum’s natural sweetness makes it an excellent partner for cigars, especially ones with spicy notes. A dark, aged rum can hold its own with a full-bodied cigar. For a lighter cigar, a golden rum can add that touch of island magic.
Pro Pair:
• Full-Bodied Cigar: Cohiba Behike
• Drink: A glass of Ron Zacapa XO
Craft Beer – The Contemporary Twist
Craft beers, with their myriad flavors, are a modern and exciting pairing choice. A hoppy IPA can slice through the richness of a full-bodied cigar, while a creamy stout can embrace and enhance a medium to full-bodied smoke.
Pro Pair:
• Full-Bodied Cigar: Liga Privada No. 9
• Drink: A cold Guinness Stout
Port Wine – The Sweet Serenade
For those who fancy a sweeter indulgence, Port wine and cigars are a match made in heaven. The rich, fruity sweetness of a good Port can either complement the spicy notes of a cigar or balance out its earthiness.
Pro Pair:
• Medium to Full-Bodied Cigar: Ashton VSG
• Drink: Graham’s Six Grapes Reserve Port
Anchors Aweigh: Setting Sail on Your Own
Now that you’re armed with the knowledge, it’s time to embark on your own pairing adventures. Experiment, explore, and find the combinations that sing to your palate. Remember, like any great adventure, it’s not just the destination but the journey that counts.
Note: While we raise our glasses to the joys of pairing, let’s not forget the wisdom of moderation and to be mindful of our health.
