Bourbon and cigars

[DanP]

Do you have a bourbon that you particularly enjoy when accompanied by a nice cigar?  This thought occurred to me tonight whilst lounging on my patio listening to a little Tab Benoit, puffing on a nice Ashton, and sipping/guzzling a little Eagle Rare.

 

In general I like Eagle Rare but it’s not one of my favorites.  However I find myself pouring it with a much higher frequency when I’m smoking a cigar, to the point that it’s almost not a conscious effort.  A good cigar seems to bring out the sweetness and covers a bit for its lack of complexity (my novice opinion).

[BigRich]

I generally prefer scotch with a cigar.  However, older (12 yr+) bourbons do better for me with a cigar.  The cigar rounds out the oak in older bourbons and brings out that sweetness that you mention. 

[DanP]

8 hours ago, BigRich said:

I generally prefer scotch with a cigar.  However, older (12 yr+) bourbons do better for me with a cigar.  The cigar rounds out the oak in older bourbons and brings out that sweetness that you mention. 

Good call there, Richard.  I do enjoy scotch with a cigar as well.  I will definitely try an older bourbon next time.

 

This is why I love this site!

[robertckim]

I think it is tough to have both a bourbon/scotch and a cigar where both benefit from the other.  I tend to pick a lesser bourbon/scotch if I want the cigar to be the focus and vice versa if I want the bourbon/scotch to be the focus.  However, that's the beauty of trying and finding what gets enhanced and what does not.  Enjoy!

[Skinsfan1311]

While I do like scotch, I prefer bourbon and something in between 90 - 110 proof, when I smoke a cigar, regardless of the sticks strength.   

 

Peated scotch is in my wheelhouse and, for whatever reason, I don't really care to pair them.   I do, however, enjoy a non-peaty, (is that word?), scotch with a cigar.

 

 I avoid higher-proof spirits, regardless of type, because the combination of a good smoke, and a strong bourbon wrecks my palate.  YMMV

 

I

[Paddy]

Personally, I like to pair my cigar and whiskey on an equal playing field.  If it’s a strong smoke, I prefer an equally strong pour.  
 

My palate can handle about anything, but I really hate to lose a mild stick/pour by blowing out its subtle nuances with something that’s flavors are way out of proportion with it.

 

YMMV

[WD40]

After a couple days of ceiling painting, over four gallons worth ....I am done. Neck hurts, shoulder is sore, plantar fasciitis acting up from climbing ladder with no shoes, its time to settle in. 
 

Got a good ole Perdomo Reserve Sungrown and a few fingers of some WR Wheated. Gonna sleep well tonight. 

[gurgalunas]

I personally gravitate to finished whiskeys, particularly ryes, when smoking a cigar.  MWND is a favorite for this, but also like other HW finished DR, AE rye.

[BDanner]

OGD114 and Dickel 12 are two of my go-to's.

[Paddy]

[FacePlant]

2 hours ago, Paddy said:

Nice cut. That's a lot of cigar. They make me more drunk than a tall glass of Barrel Proof.  (Easier than a Mi Amora though)