Few pleasures in life match the richness and enjoyment of pairing cigars and whiskey. Importantly, savoring the pairing experience is crucial, as it involves experimentation and personal expression. When done right, it becomes more than a smoke and a sip—it transforms into a balanced pairing experience, where each enhances the other. Whether you’re new to pairing cigars or a seasoned aficionado, this guide will walk you through the perfect combinations of cigar and whiskey pairings using detailed tasting notes, recommendations, and flavor insight.
Introduction to Cigar Pairing
Cigar pairing is an art that involves combining the rich flavors of a cigar with the complex notes of whiskey, creating a unique and enjoyable experience. When it comes to cigar and whiskey pairings, the goal is to find a balanced pairing that complements the flavor profiles of both. A good pairing can elevate the flavors of both the cigar and the whiskey, creating a harmonious and enjoyable mix. For those new to cigar pairing, it’s essential to start with mild cigars and whiskey pairings, such as a Connecticut wrapped cigar with a wheated bourbon, and gradually experiment with stronger and more full-bodied options.
Why Cigars and Whiskey Are a Match Made in Heaven
Cigars and whiskey share a lot in common. Both are crafted with care, aged to perfection, and meant to be savored slowly. They also share a similar flavor profile spectrum—ranging from sweet and spicy to smoky, floral, and rich. A cigar’s characteristics, such as its wrapper and flavor intensity, significantly influence the overall smoking experience and its compatibility with different types of whiskey. When paired correctly, these two luxurious products elevate each other’s complexity.
The secret to a perfect pairing lies in balancing body and flavor. For example, a light-bodied cigar like a Connecticut wrapped cigar works well with a light or wheated bourbon, while a full-bodied cigar demands a bolder match like a high-proof rye or single malt scotch.
Understanding Whiskey Options
Understanding the different types of whiskey is crucial for cigar pairing. American whiskeys, such as bourbon and Tennessee whiskey, offer a range of flavor profiles that can complement various cigar types. Single malt whiskeys, on the other hand, provide a more nuanced and complex flavor experience. When selecting a whiskey for pairing, consider the flavor profile, including notes of vanilla, caramel, and spice, as well as the level of smokiness and sweetness. A local tobacconist can be a valuable resource in helping to navigate the world of whiskey and cigar pairings.
Factors Affecting Pairing Cigars
Several factors can affect the pairing of cigars, including the type of cigar, the whiskey’s flavor profile, and personal taste preferences. The strength and flavor of the cigar, as well as the level of spice and sweetness, can all impact the pairing experience. Additionally, the type of whiskey, including the level of aging and the type of barrel used, can also influence the pairing. When pairing cigars, it’s essential to consider these factors and experiment with different combinations to find the perfect pairing. By taking notes and paying attention to the flavor profiles, aficionados can develop their palate and refine their pairing skills, ultimately leading to a more enjoyable and satisfying experience.
11 Must-Try Cigar and Whiskey Pairings
1. Horse Soldier Shade Toro + Horse Soldier Small Batch Bourbon
This Connecticut wrapped cigar offers a mild, creamy profile with hints of nuts and honey. Its partner, Horse Soldier Small Batch Bourbon, features caramel, oak, and a touch of toffee.
Tasting Notes: Smooth and buttery, with a hint of spice on the retrohale, balanced by the bourbon’s soft vanilla and sweet corn.
Why it works: A true balanced pairing, ideal for newer cigar lovers or those who appreciate a gentler, more approachable mix of flavors.
Horse Soldier Shade Toro
In Stock
The Horse Soldier Shade Toro cigar offers up a flavorful smooth to medium bodied blend, with flawless construction. The Shade Toro was specifically blended to pair up perfectly with the Horse Soldier Small Batch Bourbon!
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2. Aging Room Quattro Nicaragua Maestro + Elijah Craig Small Batch
This award-winning full-bodied cigar delivers bold espresso, chocolate, and earthy tobacco notes. Pair it with Elijah Craig, known for its deep oak, caramel, and spice.
Tasting Notes: A rich pairing where the cigar’s strong profile amplifies the whiskey’s smoky and toasted flavour.
Aging Room Quattro Nicaragua Maestro
$251.80In Stock
2019 #1 Cigar of the Year – Rated 96 by Cigar Aficionado
The Aging Room Quattro Nicaragua Maestro is a rich and flavorful blend, by Rafael Nodal and AJ Fernandez.
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3. AJ Fernandez New World Toro + Buffalo Trace
A medium to full-bodied Nicaraguan cigar bursting with cocoa, coffee, and subtle fruit. Buffalo Trace offers a fruity, slightly spicy bourbon profile with a hint of vanilla.
Tasting Notes: A smooth, enjoyable mix that delivers complexity without overwhelming the palate.
AJ Fernandez New World Toro
$154.98In Stock
The AJ Fernandez New World Gobernador Toro has gathered accolades from around the world. The New World was AJ’s first collaboration with his Father Ismael.
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4. Alec Bradley Prensado Churchill + Redbreast 12 Year
Known for its powerful leather, dark chocolate, and spice, this full-bodied Churchill demands a refined pairing. Enter Redbreast 12 Year, a sherry-finished Irish whiskey with fruit, cinnamon, and toffee.
Tasting Notes: A layered pairing experience with a delightful fruit-spice back-and-forth.
Alec Bradley Prensado Churchill
Original price was: $273.16.$263.95Current price is: $263.95.In Stock
“#1 Cigar of the Year”
“96” rating by Cigar Aficionado in 2011.
The Alec Bradley Prensado Churchill cigar was a gamechanger when released. This exact Churchill blend won the highest award that every cigar company strives for year after year!
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5. Buffalo Ten Maduro Toro + Maker’s Mark 46
This affordable maduro blend offers deep chocolate, earth, and toasted coffee notes. Maker’s Mark 46, a wheated bourbon, adds extra spice and vanilla depth.
Tasting Notes: Sweet and smooth on the draw, with the whiskey’s finish enhancing the cigar’s cocoa backbone.
Buffalo Ten Maduro Toro
$26.10In Stock
The Buffalo TEN Maduro Toro is a study in the art of cigar making. From the toothy Mexican San Andres wrapper to the rare Negrito tobacco binder.
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6. Arturo Fuente Gran Reserva Maduro + The Glenlivet 12
This mild cigar blends sweet cedar, floral aromatics, and a subtle chocolate finish. Glenlivet 12, a classic single malt, brings in soft citrus and honey notes.
Tasting Notes: A gentle and refined mix, perfect for relaxed evenings with friends.
Arturo Fuente Gran Reserva Churchill Maduro
$182.70In Stock
Rated 90 by Cigar Aficionado
The award-winning Arturo Fuente Gran Reserva Churchill Maduro cigar is a rich and flavorful blend from start to finish. Every Fuente Churchill Maduro cigar is rolled in the Dominican Republic at the iconic Arturo Fuente cigar factory.
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7. Ashton VSG Sorcerer + Lagavulin 16 Year
This cigar’s bold profile bursts with espresso, leather, and a bold tobacco core. Pair it with the smoky, peat-rich Lagavulin 16, a king among scotches.
Tasting Notes: A power-pairing for the brave—a wave of smoke, oak, and depth.
Ashton VSG Sorcerer
$356.40In Stock
Rated 92 by Cigar Insider
The Ashton VSG Sorcerer cigar is another highly rated shape in the Ashton VSG series. Each Sorcerer cigar is rolled with premium aged tobaccos in the Dominican Republic.
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8. AVO Syncro Nicaragua + Balvenie DoubleWood 12
The AVO offers a balanced medium-bodied experience with fruit, cedar, and mild spicy notes. Balvenie’s sherry cask finish adds a toffee sweetness that complements the cigar beautifully.
Tasting Notes: Bright and complex—a standout cigar pairing with structure and finesse.
Avo Syncro Nicaragua Toro
$230.40In Stock
Rated 93 by Cigar Aficionado
The award-winning Avo Syncro Nicaragua Toro cigar is a rich tasting blend that features premium aged tobaccos. Each Avo Syncro Toro cigar is rolled in the Dominican Republic by the Davidoff Cigar Company!
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9. Blackened M81 by Drew Estate + Stagg Jr.
Crafted for those who love strong cigars, this is an ultra-full-bodied smoke with layers of dark chocolate, earth, and intense espresso. Pair it with the bold kick of Stagg Jr., loaded with cinnamon, leather, and oak.
Tasting Notes: Intense yet surprisingly smooth—an adrenaline-fueled pairing for the bold.
Blackened M81 Toro by Drew Estate
Original price was: $199.50.$189.95Current price is: $189.95.In Stock
Rated 92 by Cigar Insider
The highly rated Blackened M81 Toro by Drew Estate is another homerun Maduro cigar blend! Each cigar is rolled in Nicaragua using a dark and full-flavored Maduro wrapper.
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10. Caldwell Blind Man’s Bluff Robusto + Knob Creek 9 Year
This medium-bodied cigar delivers a creamy tobacco core, accented with citrus and soft spice. Knob Creek’s bourbon richness brings out a delightful contrast.
Tasting Notes: A classic American bourbon and cigar harmony, with a lasting vanilla and toffee finish.
Caldwell Blind Man’s Bluff Cigars
$146.95 – $180.95In Stock
Another successful brand from one of the hottest boutique cigar makers out today. The Blind Man’s Bluff by Caldwell Cigars is already one the best-selling lines from Robert Caldwell that features a stellar Habano wrapper and medium bodied profile.
11. Brick House Maduro Mighty Mighty + Woodford Reserve
This big-ring maduro cigar is rich with coffee, leather, and sweet undertones. Woodford Reserve brings balance with its silky caramel and cinnamon finish.
Tasting Notes: Hearty and satisfying—this is the kind of pair whiskey with many cigars that just works.
Brick House Maduro Mighty Mighty
$213.75In Stock
An overnight sensation, the Brick House Maduro Mighty Mighty cigar brand has become one of the most talked about cigars and a best seller nationwide!
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Pairing Tips
- Light cigars → Wheated bourbon, Tennessee whiskey, or floral single malt
- Medium cigars → Balanced bourbon with fruit and spice
- Full-bodied cigars → Bold, high-proof rye or peaty scotch
When exploring a collection of premium cigars and single malts, consider the unique characteristics and exclusive nature of each option to find the perfect pairing.
How to Host a Cigar and Whiskey Night
Gather your friends, bring out your favorite glasses, and make it an event. Start with light-bodied cigars and mild whiskeys, and work your way up to full-bodied smokes and bolder bourbons. Offer tasting notes cards and encourage everyone to share what flavors they pick up—chocolate, oak, spice, even citrus.
Where to Buy These Cigars
You can find all these cigars (and more) at LMcigars.com, your trusted source for premium selections delivered straight to your door.
From Arturo Fuente to AJ Fernandez, LMCigars features expertly curated brands perfect for every pairing experience. Need help choosing? Our team offers personalized suggestions to help you find your ideal match.
Final Thoughts on the Art of Pairing Cigars and Whiskey
Whether you prefer a Jim Beam Black with your maduro, or a Maker’s Mark with your Connecticut shade, the world of cigar pairing offers something for every palate. Some whiskeys and cigars feature maple flavor profiles, adding richness and smoothness to the tasting experience. Explore boldly, pair thoughtfully, and enjoy the rich, flavorful journey that only cigars and whiskey can provide.
So light that cigar, pour a glass of your favorite bourbon, and raise a toast to the timeless joy of the perfect pairing.
FAQ: Cigar and Whiskey Pairings
What whiskey goes best with cigars?
Aged bourbons, ryes, and single malt scotches are ideal. Match the intensity of the cigar to the whiskey.
Can you pair mild cigars with bourbon?
Yes—try a wheated bourbon like Maker’s Mark for a sweet, smooth experience.
What’s a good full-bodied cigar and whiskey pairing?
Try the Ashton VSG Sorcerer with Lagavulin 16 for a deep, smoky experience.
Where can I buy cigars for pairing?
Check out LMcigars.com for premium selections and fast shipping.