Have you had a long day at work and are looking for the perfect way to kick back and unwind? Or thinking about hosting some business partners at your home this weekend and need to make sure they have a good time? The answer to both of these questions is simple, whiskey and cigars.
This iconic duo of vices has been enjoyed by the true gentleman for ages and it’s so secret why. Just like the right wine will top off an excellent meal, cigars find their perfect match with whiskey.
If you are someone who already enjoys puffing on a cigar and you haven’t experienced pairing it with a quality whiskey then you are missing out big time. Once you try this dynamic duo, you’ll never want to go back.
Having knowledge of whiskey and cigar pairings will not only benefit your pallet but will also impress your friends, acquaintances, and even your future father-in-law. Keep reading to learn the ins and outs of why these two pair together so well.
Why Whiskey And Cigars Are A Perfect Match
There are many factors that go into making something a desirable pair. The first thing you have to learn as a cigar and whiskey connoisseur is why these two work together so well.
1. Warmth
From a broad perspective, the flavors of both of these are considered to be warming within your body. The comforting warmth of a cigar stays in and around your mouth.
And we all know the ‘fire in your belly’ type of warmth that whiskey brings your stomach. If you are partaking in the enjoyment of these two outside on a cold night you’ll be happily soothed by their warm glow.
2. Slow Down, Sit Back And Enjoy
Another thing that whiskey and cigars have in common is that you are supposed to enjoy both slowly. Like any fine craft, you should take the time to slow down and enjoy the experience as a whole.
You’ll never really find someone going out back for a quick cigar, and for good reason. If you have the time a good cigar can be smoked for hours.
And whiskey is not meant to be gulped down all at once, but rather sipped on so you can really get a feel for the taste. Both are designed as an experience for your pallet and thus should be treated as so.
3. Enjoyed Best With Others
Slowly sipping on your whiskey and lightly puffing on your cigar is a great activity to enjoy over good conversation. Another reason why this pair is perfect for your next social gathering.
We all remember the first time our father finally thought we were old enough to try the whiskey in his glass. Or maybe for you, this moment was shared among friends or colleagues.
Either way, this is the kind of drink that is communal and welcoming. And the same esteemed mindset also applies to cigars. So it’s not surprising that the combination of the two makes for a perfect family or post-business deal celebration.
4. Flavors Galore
Another reason that whiskey and cigars pair excellently is due to their wide variety of blends and flavors. You’ll often see the taste of these two described with a similar list of terms.
Both whiskey and cigars are often described as earthy, oaky, smoky, spicy, full-bodied or medium bodied. These flavors can work hand in hand to complement each other for the best possible flavor experience.
Because of the wide range of options found in both cigars and whiskey, you have the potential for many different types of pairings. And like all things, some pairs will be better than others.
How To Pick You Pairings
Everyone’s particular taste is going to be a little different so it may take some trial and error to find your favorite whiskey and cigar combo. A good rule of thumb to start with is matching the strength profiles of the cigar and the whiskey. This means you’ll want to pair heavier whiskeys with fuller bodied cigars and vice versa.
After that, it’s all about playing around with the specific notes included in your options. Many cigars will include hints of cinnamon, cedar, dark chocolate, pepper, or sometimes even fruits like black cherry.
Pay attention to the flavor profile of the cigar before picking a whiskey to match to see what you think would complement well. If you have no idea where to start flavor wise think about picking up a cigar sampler and pairing it with a whiskey flight to see what you personally like best.
If the price is a large factor in picking your cigar don’t worry, there are plenty of budget-friendly options that still have great taste. Click to learn more about these options.
If you don’t have a favorite whiskey in mind ordering a flight like mentioned above is a great way to season your pallet and find which flavors suit you best. You’re probably already familiar with classic Tennessee whiskeys like Jack Daniels so maybe step out of this comfort zone to try some different tastes.
Enjoying Your Chosen Vices
It may take a few different combinations of whiskey and cigars to find the best crowd pleaser. And you may find that your tastes change throughout time.
Once you’ve found the perfect pair all that’s left is taking the time to sit back and enjoy them. Invite your colleagues over and impress them with your new found knowledge and perfected after hours duo.
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