The right drink can bring out flavors in a cigar you'd otherwise miss, and a great cigar can do the same for your glass. Here's a rundown of classic pairings to try, along with a few guidelines for building your own combinations.
Whiskey and Bourbon
Rich, oaky spirits like bourbon and whiskey are a natural match for medium to full-bodied cigars. The caramel and vanilla notes from barrel aging tend to complement the sweetness in a Maduro wrapper, while the char and spice can stand up to a stronger, peppery cigar without one overpowering the other.
Rum
Aged rum is one of the most popular pairings for cigars, and for good reason — many rums are produced in the same regions as premium tobacco and share similar notes of caramel, dried fruit, and spice. A dark or spiced rum pairs especially well with a medium-bodied cigar with some natural sweetness.
Coffee and Espresso
For a morning or early-afternoon smoke, a strong coffee or espresso pairs beautifully with a milder cigar. The bitterness of the coffee balances the creaminess of a Connecticut-wrapped cigar, and the ritual of coffee and a cigar is a longstanding tradition for good reason.
Red Wine and Port
Full-bodied red wines and fortified wines like port bring out the fruit and spice notes in a cigar without competing with them. A tawny port in particular has enough sweetness and depth to hold its own against a stronger, full-bodied cigar.
General Pairing Tips
As a rule of thumb, try to match intensity with intensity — a delicate drink can get lost next to a powerful cigar, and a very strong drink can overwhelm a mild one. Take your time with both, and don't be afraid to experiment; the best pairing is ultimately the one you enjoy most.
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