What do you pair your cigars with?

Every true lover of premium cigars knows the importance of choosing the right drink to accompany the smoking experience. It’s clear that a cigar on its own fills your mouth with flavors and sensations, but a good companion can enhance those notes and intensify the pleasure of savoring a fine cigar.

There are many drinks that pair perfectly with the aromas emitted by cigars. Although, as in everything, it’s a matter of personal preference, as a general rule, one should choose a beverage that enhances the flavors of the cigar and complements its smoking. It shouldn’t overpower or mute its aromas.

Generally, mild cigars pair better with light spirits. On the other hand, full-bodied cigars can be enjoyed with stronger spirits. The list of drinks to accompany a smoke is extensive, but it can be summarized in a few that are the main choices or most commonly used by enthusiasts.

Rum and coffee, loyal companions of premium cigars

A faithful friend to a good cigar is coffee, especially as a companion to strong cigars, especially when taken black. Rum, the quintessential Caribbean drink, is also highly favored by premium cigar smokers. It enhances the flavors of caramel, vanilla, chocolate, honey, spices, and floral notes in premium cigars. Dark and aged rums are particularly recommended.

Other spirits that pair well with cigars include cognac, which allows for a good pairing during evening smokes. Whisky is another good companion for smoking. Both Scotch whisky and bourbon can complement various types of cigars, from mild to more robust. Both drinks are perfect for powerful, full-bodied cigars.

Although it’s a bit more complex, you can also drink wine while smoking. Wine is typically consumed with meals to enhance the flavor of food, but it’s not forbidden to enjoy it with a cigar.

Some experts believe that it’s best to drink wines from the same origin as the cigars. In other words, the origin of both should be the same or similar, for example, from the same country or a similar cultivation area for their respective plants.

There’s also a consideration for the aging time of both, tobacco and wine. In other words, there should be a balance between the strength and tannins so that one doesn’t overpower the other excessively.

Red wines, such as a good Malbec or Cabernet Sauvignon, usually pair well with stronger cigars. On the other hand, white wines, especially Chardonnay, are a good choice to highlight the woody flavors of mild cigars, as well as their notes of hazelnut, honey, and caramel. Reds are perfect for stronger cigars.

Finally, beer enthusiasts can also enjoy them while smoking a good cigar. Craft beers, stouts, or even bitter beers can complement some cigars, depending on their flavor profiles.