Whisky and cigars are a timeless pairing, enjoyed the world over by everyone from cigar aficionados to those just beginning their collection. But how do you know which cigars pair well with whisky? And how can you tailor your collection to your personal drinking preference? Read on to find out.
Why do we pair whisky and cigars together?
Pairing whisky and cigars is a tradition rooted in luxury, relaxation, and celebration. Whisky and cigars share deep, complex flavour profiles, including rich, smoky notes, layers of spice, sweetness, and wood, that naturally complement each other. The slow enjoyment of both items encourages conversation and a break from routine. Whether marking a special occasion or simply winding down, the pairing offers a refined sensory experience that’s as much about ritual as it is about taste.
How to pair a cigar and whisky
Pairing a cigar with whisky is all about balance and personal preference. To get the most out of the experience, it’s important to consider the strength, flavour, and body of both the cigar and the whisky. Here are a few simple steps to help guide your pairing journey:
- Keep tasting as you smoke: Flavours evolve throughout a cigar; sip your whisky as you go to notice how both profiles shift and interact.
- Experiment with different combinations: There’s no one-size-fits-all—try contrasting flavours (like smoky whisky with a sweet cigar) or complementary ones to discover your preference.
- Take notes: Jot down what works and what doesn’t. Tracking your favourites helps refine your palate and makes future pairings more enjoyable.
What should you consider when pairing whisky and a cigar?
Flavour profiles
When pairing whisky and cigars, thinking about flavour profiles is key to a balanced experience. Whiskies can range from sweet and fruity to smoky and peaty, while cigars offer notes of spice, leather, cocoa, earth, and more. Matching similar flavours, like a smoky whisky with a rich, earthy cigar, creates harmony, while contrasting notes, such as a sweet whisky with a bold, peppery cigar, can offer exciting complexity.
Intensity and strength
Matching the intensity and strength of your cigar and whisky ensures one doesn’t overpower the other. A full-bodied cigar pairs best with a bold, high-proof whisky, while a lighter cigar complements a smoother, more delicate blend. Balancing strength allows the nuanced flavours of both the cigar and the whisky to shine through. If one is too strong, it can dull the experience of the other, so finding the right equilibrium is essential for a satisfying pairing.
Contrast
Pairing whisky and cigars through contrast can create a dynamic and memorable tasting experience. Instead of matching flavours or strength, try combining opposites, like a sweet, smooth whisky with a bold, spicy cigar. This will highlight each counterpart’s unique characteristics, allowing them to play off one another in unexpected ways.
The best cigars to pair with whisky for beginners
Narrowing down the best cigars to pair with whisky can be difficult, especially with so many different flavour profiles and intensities at your fingertips. We’ve put together a list of the best cigars to pair with whisky if you’re a beginner, whatever your budget.
Full-bodied cigars
Full-bodied cigars are a great choice if you want flavour and depth that can stand up to a strong, single malt scotch. Consider the rich, chocolatey tones of Charatan Maduro Robustos, or the sweet and spicy notes of A.H. Fernandez Enclave Habano Robusto cigars.
Medium-full bodies cigars
With less intensity, but just as much flavour, medium to full-bodied cigars are the perfect pairing for lighter, spicier whiskies like bourbon. The subtle heat and sweetness of bourbons complements the understated flavour of a Quintero Nacionales cigar without overwhelming it.
Mild cigars
Mild cigars are great for pairing with more subtle whiskeys that require a more delicate balance of flavours. With a smooth, mellow profile, mild cigars such as the Guantanamera Minutos won’t overpower lightly aged single malts or delicate highland casks, allowing lighter notes of citrus or honey to shine through. As a result, mild pairings are perfect for beginners or those who prefer a more refined, easygoing experience.
What drinks can you pair with cigars if you don’t like whisky?
If you’re not a whisky drinker but are still keen to enjoy a smoke with one of your favourite beverages in hand, there are plenty of other drinks that pair well with cigars. Spiced rum is a popular choice, offering warm, sweet, and slightly smoky notes that enhance the flavours of a medium-bodied cigar. Cognac is another classic option, with its rich, fruity depth and smooth finish complementing a cigar’s complexity. Even certain craft beers, dark rums, or fortified wines like sherry or port can provide a satisfying pairing.
Want to build your own cigar collection to pair alongside the whiskies in your drinks cabinet? Explore our range of cigars, or get in touch with our team to find out more about what we have to offer.
