Matching whiskey and cigars is a true treat and a luxury. It is the mark of an incredibly classy evening, and the combination will help to make both the drink and the smoke all the more enjoyable and delicious.

But there are countless different whiskies out there and countless different places to start. If you’re new to the worlds of whiskey or cigars (or just new to combining the two), then it’s important to ensure your first encounter is a positive one so that you get off to the best start.

This post humbly puts forward one combination for your consideration: the Oliva Seri V Melanio, with the 1792 High Rye.

Why Bourbon and Cigars

Smoking in all its forms has always been as much about the paraphernalia and the experience as it is about the actual taste and smell.

The point is that it’s sometimes just great to sit down and inhale something warm. To feel it fill your lungs (or just your mouth in the case of a cigar) and to blow that plume of smoke away and watch it hang in the air.

With all that in mind then, it should really come as no surprise that the surroundings and the circumstances are almost as important as the smoke itself. You want to enjoy a fine cigar on a special occasion, as a celebration. Ideally with close friends or family. And definitely with a drink.

What’s the best thing to pair with cigars? Suggestions range from coffee to soda – but nearly everyone agrees that whiskey is a fantastic choice. This is another experience that is ideal for celebrations, for alone time, for bonding. It’s another luxury that’s all about those finer, more subtle flavors.

But that then leaves us with another classic argument: bourbon or whiskey?

In a moment, we’ll discuss why bourbon is the best answer in a moment. But first, let me tell you about this fantastic combination.

The Pairing

Okay, so what we’re looking at here is the Melanio as the cigar. It’s a limited release (so you know it’s’ going to be good), and it is a follow up to the very popular Oliva Aos Serie V. It’s a full strength cigar in the Figurado shape, and it will set you back about $15 per stogie.

The leaf is an Ecuadorian Sumatra leaf that is thick and oily. It is full flavored and brings notes of leather, coffee and just a trace of pepper.

1792 is a brand of whiskey that comes from Bardstown Kentucky. It is owned by the Barton 1792 Distillery, which in turn is part of the Sazerac Company.

The name 1792 refers to the date when Kentucky became formally recognized as a State. As you can see then, the 1792 label is steeped in the local culture and is very much a product of its location. (That said, the company was previously known as Ridgewood Reserve 1792.)

1792 has been enjoying a lot of popularity and praise lately – being the winner of many prestigious awards. It specializes in small batch whiskey, aimed at the higher end market. This gives it a complexity and subtlety that is ideal for pairing with a good cigar.

Specifically, we’re going to be combining the Melanio with the High Rye. Bourbons are made with rye as the secondary grain in the mash bill, but in this case, the Rye is used in far higher percentages. This, combined with other flavorings, creates a very spicy, yet complex flavor that is the perfect partner for the coffee and pepper stylings of the Melanio. Together, they make a very robust and fully flavored combo that makes you stand up and take notice!

Bourbon vs Scotch

So, why combine bourbon and cigars, rather than Scotch? What’s even the difference?

Well, actually the difference comes down to many things – and it is as much about the culture here as it is about taste.

Scotch whiskey is the original. It takes back over 500 years, and in order for a whiskey to be classified as Scotch, it must come from Scotland. There are a few other rules too: for instance, it must be made using pure barley with no additional ingredients, other than coloring.

Another important rule is that Scotch whiskey must be aged in oak casks for at least three years.

The result is a drink that is certainly very well regulated and high quality. But at the same time, it’s also arguably ‘blander’ as compared with bourbon. Thanks to the combination of grains, the added spices and flavorings, and other things going in its favor – bourbon tends to be the more flavorsome and arguably the more ‘interesting’ of the drinks. Thus it can pair better with a wider range of cigars and also help to bring out those subtle notes in both the flavor and the odor.

While scotch must be aged for at least three years, the stipulation with bourbon is that it must come from entirely fresh barrels. That means that more of the woody flavor and smell tends to transfer itself into the drink, and the result is something that is more of an experience to drink and something that goes well with many of the slightly oaky cigars.

1792, in particular, takes great pride in meeting all these conditions, resulting in one of the most authentic bourbon whiskeys around – and an ideal place to start if you want to enjoy a fantastic pairing with the Melanio.

Some Whiskey Terminology

There’s a lot to unravel and unpack when it comes to understanding what makes a great cigar and whiskey pairing. If you’re currently feeling a little lost, the consider some of these terms which will help you to better understand whiskey and the 1792 in particular.

Beer

Believe it or not, whiskey is actually made from beer. It’s a strange form of beer, but it’s still beer! And that’s probably why cigars are also known to pair very well with craft beer!

Cask Strength

The whiskey will be bottled at the proof that it came out of the barrel if it is classified as ‘cask strength’. This is typically more expensive, but it means you can add a little water and enjoy the bottle for longer.

Dram

If you would like to impress your next drinking buddy, then you should know that a ‘shot’ of whiskey is called a dram. And we don’t ‘shoot’ it!

Handcrafted

Some of the terms you read on the labels of bottles will help you to understand the whiskey better and whether it’s likely to go with your cigar of choice. Other terms are essentially just empty, marketing slang. ‘Handcrafted’ falls firmly in the latter camp and technically means nothing at all!

Malt

Malt is a grain that is sprouted and then toasted. It makes whiskey a little sweeter, and you might know it from other types of drinks and chocolates!

Single Estate

This means that all the grain used in the beer/whiskey were grown in a single location. This doesn’t directly influence the flavor of said whiskey but will typically indicate a higher quality product.

Aging

Whiskey is matured in either an oak barrel or a cask. When you say that a whiskey is ’25 years old’, you are talking about how long it was in the barrel or cask – seeing as it doesn’t continue to mature inside the bottle. Unlike wine, there is no benefit to keeping a whiskey for years on end.

Irish Malt

We’ve already discussed the difference between Scotch and Bourbon. But Irish Malt is another form of whiskey, which is produced from barley in a manner very similar to Scotch. However, it is tripled distilled. Triple distillation will help to create a higher and cleaner spirit.

Distillation

This is the main process used in the production of whiskey. Whiskey will generally be distilled twice: the first distillation will produce low wines and the second will be used to collect the strong, distilled spirit.

Wood Finish

Whiskey can be placed into a second casket after its initial maturation which provides additional flavor. It can then be ‘finished’ with sherry, madeira or burgundy for instance.

Conclusion

Learn these terms, try this pairing, and you will be on your way to chart the fantastic world of cigar and whiskey pairings. If it all sounds a little complex right now and all you can taste is smoke and alcohol… don’t worry! This is an acquired taste, and it takes time to mature your palette and to develop the sensitivity.

You will find that this is part of the fun: and this understanding of how the preparation process works and how different whiskeys vary will help you to better understand what you’re drinking and smoking.

There are more tips alongside our other pairing recommendations, so be sure to check those out and read the primer here.

The post Whiskey Pairing: 1792 High Rye with Oliva Serie V Melanio appeared first on The Aspiring Gentleman.

Looking for a fantastic cigar and whiskey pairing? Then you found it! My Father Le Bijou and 1792 Small Batch go together like a horse and carriage, and you should definitely seek them out.

In this post, you’ll learn about this pairing first and foremost and get an idea of what to expect. Then we’ll take a look at just why these two things go together so well – and why you should absolutely try them out and give whiskey and cigar combos a chance in general!

The Pairing

First, let’s take a look at the liquor. 1792 is a fantastic whiskey brand that was previously known as Ridgewood Reserve 1792. Of course, the name here is referring to the year in which Kentucky – the home of whiskey – was originally recognized as a state.

1792 whiskey is a bourbon. For those not familiar with their whiskeys, that means that it is made in the US and that it has been made using brand new oak barrels. Once a barrel has been used once, then it is no longer suitable for making bourbon. This affects the flavor compared with, say Scotch, and gives a smoky, woody, flavor and texture. Scotch conversely is made from whiskey that has been matured in caskets.

What’s more, is that Bourbon, unlike Scotch, permits the addition of extra flavorings and spices to make for something that may be less smooth, but is more complex and interesting and often better suited to enjoy with a cigar.

1792 is very well regarded and has won numerous awards for its quality. The 1792 Small batch meanwhile, of course, is a small batch whiskey. This means that it has been made from a select few number of barrels, rather than the thousands that are often used when creating mainstream whiskeys such as the likes of Jack Daniels. The Small Batch is one of the bourbons that 1792 is best known for and it is a fantastic starting point. It’s also a little milder than some other products.

You’ll find that in terms of what to expect, this is a drink with a dark, caramel-like coloring and a thick, texture. When you swill it in your glass, you’ll find that long arms stick to the inside, which is also a mark of the strength of the alcohol.

In other words, this is a very high-quality whiskey that involves a high level of craftsmanship.

My Father Le Bijou comes from the Pepin Garcia Family, which has been producing a number of fantastic cigars for over a decade now. That experience shines through here, with a traditional Cuban cigar that will help you to make friends and influence people wherever you go.

The Le Bijou was actually named as the cigar of the year in 2015 by Cigar Aficionado, so that should speak to its quality and its reputation. The cigar is peppery, it has a full body, and it works particularly well with the finely crafted balance of the Small Batch whiskey from 1792. When you enjoy these two in conjunction, you should find that the vanilla and the caramel come through much more strongly. It is rated as medium-full strength, meaning that it’s a little milder than some of the other options on this list, along with the small batch.

Despite its excellent reputation, this Torpedo box-press shaped cigar with its Ecuador Habano wrapper is only $12.

Why Cigars and Whiskey?

So that’s one amazing pairing that is great for a newcomer to start out with, but equally interesting for the more experienced veteran of whiskey and cigars.

But if you fall into that former camp, you might be wondering why these two flavors go so well and why you should take the time to learn this pairing?

In terms of the flavor, there are some obvious similarities between whiskey and cigars. They are both smoky and woody, they are both often infused with spices and elements of sweetness, and when you combine the two together, you can help to strengthen those more subtle notes and create a more complex, or a more bold experience.

The Science

I could wax lyrical about why cigars and whiskey go so well from an experiential and practical standpoint. But there’s also actually a science here. Just as there is a color theory that tells us why certain things in our environment look so good, there is also a science of food pairings and ingredients. Understanding this can help you to make a more informed decision when matching your cigars and your whiskey.

Our experience of taste comes from two separate inputs: it comes from the taste buds on our tongues, as well as our senses of smell.

The tongue is capable of detecting five basic tastes. These are: sweet, salt, bitter, sour, and umami. Together, these account for about 20% of our sense of taste and the rest comes from the 10,000 different odors that we are capable of detecting.

This is why the best way to enjoy whiskey is from a tumbler – it lets you immerse yourself in the fumes and inhale the flavor. Likewise, it’s another reason that smoking a cigar can have such a big influence on how we experience the taste of whiskey.

Odors come from molecules, which enter our noses and mouths then affect our olfactory nerves.

So, when considering different food pairings, it is essential that we think in terms of what is known as the ‘aroma profile’. If you were a scientist studying food pairings, then you might use a device called a gas chromatographer, and another called a mass spectrometer. From the data collected from these systems, food scientists can use machine learning and pattern recognition to identify the foods that work best together and those that don’t.

Often the pairings come down to similar elements. For instance, the reason that strawberries and chocolates go so well is that they share ‘roasted aromas’. Strawberries also contain cheesy aromas (who came up with these names?), so they work very well with parmesan.

So, the scientific reason that whiskey and cigars go so well together has likely got to do with the inclusion of similar categories of aromas. In this case, it probably comes from the fact that both go through some similar processes.

Why do we like foods that have similar, connected aromas? Most likely this is a result of our evolution: the human body has evolved based on the surroundings it was exposed to in the wild: in this case, that means that it has adapted to eat foods that would naturally be consumed together. These foods probably grew in the same places, or came from the same animals: and thus they likely would have shared aromas.

So now you know!

The Culture

What’s more though, is that there is an undoubted ‘culture’ surrounding both cigars and whiskey. Both of these are luxuries: they are both treats that can be enjoyed on a special occasion – both designed for you to take your time with them and both involving a host of terminology and concepts that take time to learn.

In other words, cigars and whiskey area both sophisticated, luxurious, and meditative. They force you to take a moment to slow down and to enjoy the experience. They’re a little unhealthy – which helps to cement them as a ‘treat’ – but it’s not about ‘getting drunk’ (there are cheaper and easier ways) or about nicotine addiction (you’re not inhaling). This is about taking a moment to do something indulgent and adult.

That’s why you hand a cigar to a friend when they tell you they’re getting married. And it’s why you give a whiskey to your new son-in-law.

And it’s why both these things go together so well and make for such a fine and special occasion.

Then there is the additional heritage and the romantic imagery that surrounds both cigars and bourbon whiskey in between. Both come from the US, and both are rugged and even a little dangerous. Smoking a large cigar while sipping whiskey slowly calls to mind images of Clint Eastwood, or perhaps another Wild West hero. There’s something pure and classic about it, and it’s quintessentially American. That’s just one more reason to pick Bourbon over Scotch for your cigar – and if you’re going to be doing that, then pairing the 1792 Small Batch and the My Father Le Bijou 1922 is a great place to start.

Closing Comments

There are countless great cigar and whiskey combinations out there, and I hope that this series will inspire you to head out there and try a few of them. Over time, you’ll hopefully start to develop your palette and learn what to look out for. In the meantime, you can guarantee that this is a fantastic pairing.

If you’re looking for more ideas on the other hand, then be sure to check out the full article and then to follow the links for lots of pairings that will serve you equally well!

The post Whiskey and Cigar Pairing: My Father Le Bijou and 1792 Small Batch appeared first on The Aspiring Gentleman.

Learning to drink whiskey is something every man should do at some point in his life.

And learning to smoke a cigar, is similarly something that every man should do.

Learning to do both then, must surely be the mark of an esteemed and accomplished gentleman! And it’s a good thing too, seeing as this is one of the most enjoyable combinations since Morecambe and Wise.

If you’re new to the world of whiskey and cigar pairings though, then you might be looking for a place to start – a winning combination that you can enjoy with a friend, or suggest to a colleague without looking like a complete idiot. An ideal pick then would be the 1792 Single Barrel bourbon whiskey, along with the Padron 50^th Anniversary Limited Edition.

And if you’re a pro and you haven’t tried this combo yet? Then what are you waiting for?

In this article, we’ll look at the pairing in more depth and dig deep into why this is such a winning formula. At the same time though, we’ll also be looking at the whole notion of combining cigars and whiskey in a little more depth and providing some tips and inspiration for your culinary adventures.

But we’ll start with the pairing…

The Pairing

The Whiskey

To start with, let’s take a look at the whiskey. 1792 is a brand that was previously known as Ridgewood Reserve 1792. The date, of course, is taken from the date that Kentucky first became a state and this demonstrates the very close ties with the region – which of course is the official home of bourbon.

1792 is a bourbon whiskey brand. That means it is distilled in the US and it also means it needs to meet a few other criteria. For example, it means that the whiskey must be aged in brand new barrels. So once a barrel has been used once, it cannot be used again for making whiskey. Unlike Scotch (which is the older type of Whiskey from Scotland), additional flavorings and spices are often added to Bourbon, and it can also use a variety of different grains in the production. The result? More varied flavors and more interesting ways to match with your cigar of choice. We’ve always loved the notion of combining bourbon with whiskey most of all.

At the same time, 1792 is a company that is very well known for its quality and care. It has won numerous awards, which speak to its reputation and it adheres to all of the regulations regarding the production of bourbon. They also make an exciting variety of different whiskeys.

In this case, we’re taking the 1792 Single Barrel. This is a whisky that has been made from just one barrel (brand new) rather than a combination of thousands. When you make something like Jack Daniels or Jim Beane, this will be produced by taking the whiskey that has been distilled across many, many barrels and then combining them into a single bottle.

Why?

Because this way, the flavor will reflect the ‘average’ of all of those barrels. This provides a much more consistent experience, which is what the typical buyer will want when they are drinking liquor.

On the other hand, when you consume single barrel whiskey, this has been made from just one barrel. That means that it is a far ‘purer’ experience and you’re going to notice subtle individual differences from every single brew. That’s right: there will be subtle differences with every drinking experience. This is the kind of interesting quirk that makes enjoying whiskey such a pleasure for so many people around the world!

The Cigar

So that’s quite the whiskey we’re drinking: a bourbon from a highly qualified and distinguished company, made from just a single barrel – so that every single bottle is unique.

And to go with such a fine drink, you need an equally fine cigar. That’s why we’re happy to suggest the Padron 50^th Anniversary Limited Edition. Firstly, this is a limited edition. That means it’s not going to be around forever and that instantly makes it all the more appealing. There’s something exciting to think that in time, no one else will be able to enjoy that same great smoke.

And like 1792, this is another very well regarded company in the industry. Padron is, in fact, one of the biggest names in cigars and this is a very well-deserved claim to fame. The company is – as the name would suggest – going through its 50^th anniversary – and so it chose to celebrate in style.  The thought and detail that has gone into the humidor program is second to none.

This is a cigar that you can enjoy any time of day, and that is highly versatile. It smokes incredibly well, burning evenly from the top to bottom and coats your tongue and palette along the way with sweet, tangy notes. These include maple syrup to orange citrus, which are perfect for coaxing out some of that inherent sweetness in the liquor. It is, as many writers have suggested, an instant classic.

This is a cigar to be enjoyed slowly, but it will last long after you finish. The finish really lingers, and you’ll be able to enjoy it for a good while.

This is a full strength cigar, with a toro shape and a Nicaraguan wrapper. Perhaps the only drawback to this exquisite smoke is that it is certainly on the slightly more pricey side: it will set you back $75.

Why Learning Cigars and Whiskey is Crucial for Modern Gentleman

If you’re a fan of cigars or whiskey, then no doubt the description I just shared has you eager to try out this pairing. If not, then it may have left you a little dry.

What’s all the fuss about?

Well, on the one hand, enjoying whiskey and cigars together give you a fantastic excuse to stop and smell the roses (only in this case, the roses are smokey). It forces you to focus on your senses, which will be awash in a truly rich sea of sensations. The smoke fills your noise as the whiskey fills your mouth and warms your stomach: your senses come alive, and with time, you learn to really pick out the different flavors and aromas. In other words: you learn to appreciate the finer things.

And you learn that there is always a more exciting and unique experience to be chased just beyond reach

Perhaps this is why both cigars and whiskey have gained such an important place in the lives of modern men.

Let’s be honest: being a man today is hard. The definition of a man has changed countless times in recent years, and right now, there is no agreement on what it takes to be male anymore. Are men supposed to be metrosexuals? Modern city men who groom their hair and have skincare regimes? Are we meant to be lumberjacks, who chop down trees and sport bears? Or are we meant to be jocks, who love sports and are out of touch with our emotions?

Maybe we’re meant to be genuinely modern – to be in-touch with our emotions, open-minded, and more feminine?

Testosterone levels are dropping year on year, and the role of the man has in many ways been diminished. There are fewer physical jobs, fewer physical battles to be fought, and most predictions suggest that as automation takes more of our careers, it will be the low physical activity jobs that remain.

But there are still some marks of manliness that hold weight in the world. There are still some experiences that are quintessentially male – and that still have a place in today’s society.

Knowing whiskey and cigars is one of them. The high price, the adult-nature, and the cultural aspects all ensure that an appreciation of these pairings is something of a status symbol. But it’s also a way for us to ‘be men’ and to enjoy feeling a little rebellious at the same time.

Perhaps none of this appeals to you. But now ask yourself what will happen when you’re being groomed for that important promotion in your career when your boss offers you a cigar and a drink. If you can accept and impress them with your choice, then your chances of success just went right up.

Likewise, offering new potential clients cigars is a fantastic way to get them on-side.

The same goes for a stag party.

Or how about a way to welcome a new member of the family? Or congratulate a friend on their promotion?

This is a whole culture and a language that it pays to understand. It’s so much more than just a great taste and a great experience. So, I highly recommend you take the time to explore and appreciate this combination, and I recommend you start with this fantastic pairing.

Of course, there are many more great cigars and whiskeys to discover out there… may this be the start of a long journey!

The post Padron 50th Anniversary Limited Edition And 1792 Single Barrel appeared first on The Aspiring Gentleman.

Finding the perfect combination of whiskey and cigar is a glorious discovery and one that can provide the ideal luxurious evening with a friend, family member, or partner. Let the smoky flavor of the cigar fill your mouth and compliment the taste of the whiskey as it warms your stomach.

This is the ultimate in class and sophistication and the ideal way to celebrate a big occasion, or to bond with a friend. Alternatively, it can be a great way to relax and muse, or the perfect accompaniment for a good book.

So how do you go about finding this ideal combination? Well, we’ve got one here for you that hits hard and really makes an impact. It’s the Fuente Fuente Opus X Lost City, matched with a 1792 Full Proof.

Why This Combination

A great combo like this is always more than the sum of its parts, but of course, it still makes sense to start by looking at precisely what each element brings to the table.

So first up, let’s talk about that whiskey.

1792 is one of the best known and most sought-after brands around when it comes to whiskey. This is a bourbon that was previously known as the Ridgewood Reserve 1792. It comes from Bardstown, Kentucky, and in fact, the name itself is a reference to the year that Kentucky first became a State! It is owned by the Sazerac Company and is aimed at the ‘higher end’ market of whiskey enthusiasts. It has won countless awards owing to its superior quality and great taste, which makes it a perfect choice for anyone looking for a whiskey that is not just a drink, but a whole ‘experience.’

1792 make a range of different whiskeys, but of course, the Full Proof is a stronger variant. It comes in at 125 proof (or 62.5%abv), which gives it a robust flavor and makes it intoxicating in the best kind of way. This is definitely a whiskey to be enjoyed slowly, which ideally suits the long smoke of the Lost City.

The Bourbon also has some other unique features to it. It goes through a unique filtration system for instance, rather than the usual chill filtration. This helps to maintain more of the robust flavors. This is more than a match for a stronger type of cigar.

There is, of course, a debate as to whether a bourbon or a Scotch is the ideal combination to pair with cigars. The answer is obviously going to be a matter of personal preference: but with that said, we strongly prefer the bourbon in this context. That’s thanks to its slightly more flavorsome nature (which makes it more interesting to match with a wide variety of different cigars) as well as a lot of the romantic notions surrounding bourbon. This is the drink of the wild west – and thus is the perfect choice to match with a big fat cigar!

Speaking of which, how about that cigar? So, what we’re looking at here is a cigar made with Fuente estate grown tobacco (hence the name), that has been aged five years before production. It has a beautiful, oily wrapper and a Dominican filler that provides the rich and creamy smoke.

It is full of robust, earthy flavors and also has a cedar aroma. It’s a strong and impactful cigar that makes a big statement and then sticks around long after the fact. This is what makes it such an ideal match for the full proof – because it is actually strong enough for you to pick it up!

You could say that matching the Lost City with full proof is foolproof.

The cigar is full strength and has a Toro 6 ¾ x 48 design. Its price is somewhat mid-range at $30 – enough to be a treat but without being prohibitively expensive.

Try this combination, really savor it, and we guarantee you’ll be impressed!

Cigar Terminology

In a review of another combination, we went over some of the more popular whiskey terminology. This is important not only to help you make more informed decisions when purchasing and enjoying whiskey but also so that you can avoid feeling foolish in a group by not knowing what everyone is talking about!

Now we have some cigar terminology to provide the very same service! Here are some useful terms that you should keep in mind if you’re new to the world of cigars and whiskey. Smoke like a pro!

Aging

Aging refers to the amount of time that cigars are left in a humidity controlled environment. These areas are usually called ‘aging rooms,’ and in here, they will be left undisturbed so that they can evolve and mature. Many cigar aficionados believe that aging a cigar for longer can help to bring out the best characteristics more strongly.

Aroma

Like whiskey, you can refer to a cigar’s aroma which will have a big impact on your experience of smoking it.

Band

The band is the label that you will find around the center of the cigar.

Bulk

This is a pile of tobacco leaves that are left to generate heat. This process is referred to as sweating.

Binder

The binder is the leaf on the cigar that holds the whole thing together. This will be chosen due to its durability, and it will usually come from a coarse leaf at the top of the tobacco plant.

Cap

This is the small piece of wrapper leaf that you will find attached to the head of the cigar. The purpose of this cap is to secure the wrapper in place.

Churchill

Churchill, of course, was the prime minister in England during WW2. He was also well-known for smoking cigars, which is why there is now a cigar shape named after him. That would be a long, straight cigar with a medium-to-thick body shape.

Corona

Another cigar shape. This one is a thick cigar with a straight body.

Culebra

This is a cigar that has a braided or twisted body.

Draw

When you draw, you breathe in through the cigar – pulling in air and filtering it through the tobacco leaves. The way you draw your cigar is important: it should be smooth and easy. If it draws too quickly, then the air will be much hotter and won’t taste good. This is the mark of a poorly crafted cigar. On the other hand, if the draw is slower and the air that comes in is cool and tasty, then it is well made.

That said, if the cigar is too hard to draw on, then this isn’t good either. You might likewise find that it goes out multiple times during your smoke. That means it has been wrapped too tightly.

Filler

These are the leaves inside the binder which make up the body of the cigar.

Flavor

Of course, a cigar has a flavor. There are also a number of terms you might commonly use to describe the flavor of a cigar, which can include: spicy, sweet, earthy, cedar, oak, fruity, leathery, roasted, nutty, cocoa. If you want to impress friends when smoking cigars, then learn some of these terms!

Foot

The foot is the end of the cigar that you will light. You will find that this end tends to be pre-cut, unlike the head. This is how you know which end to draw from!

Head

This is the closed end of the cigar and the end you are meant to put in your mouth. Usually, this will need to be cut by the user. You should use a cigar cutter to do this and should clip your cigar about 1/16 to 1/8 of an inch down (roughly equivalent to 2-3 millimeters). Do this before lighting the foot.

Hot

If the cigar has a quick draw, then you can describe it as being ‘hot.’

Plugged

Conversely, a cigar that is difficult to draw is referred to as being ‘plugged.’

Tunneling

Worse than a hot or plugged cigar, is a cigar that tunnels. Tunneling means that the cigar burns unevenly. The solution is to try and carefully turn the cigar as you are smoking it.

Vintage

This term is used to refer to the year the tobacco was harvested.

Wrapper

The wrapper is the cigar leaf that is wrapped around the filler and the binder. This should have no wrinkles, spots, veins or tears.

Wrapping Up

And with that, we are also ready to wrap up. Hopefully, this article has woken you up to another great cigar and whiskey combination. Give it a try and keep in mind these tips for understanding your cigars to enjoy it to the very fullest. You should find that this is a combination that is punchy, powerful, and readily able to stick in your mind.

And of course, if you want more recommendations, be sure to check the rest of this site and our other pairing ideas.

The post Fuente Fuente Opus X Lost City and 1792 Full Proof Cigar and Whiskey Pairing appeared first on The Aspiring Gentleman.

Learning to enjoy cigars and cigarettes is a skill that is worth putting in the time for any gentleman who wants to go far in life.

Being offered a fine cigar is a mark of respect and often a gesture of friendship. We smoke cigars to celebrate important occasions and significant successes. We smoke them on stag parties, in business meetings, and when being introduced to the in-law’s family.

In other words, if you can appreciate a cigar, then you will be well-equipped to deal with a wide range of different situations and to impress all kinds of people that you want to influence.

And the best way to appreciate a cigar? With some whiskey! A good cigar is just calling out to be enjoyed with a whiskey. That way, you can appreciate the taste all the more, as the whiskey compliments and contrasts the taste of the cigar in a myriad of ways. It will also prevent your mouth from feeling overly dry and provide you with a more complex and interesting palette.

Cigars and whiskey go perfectly together. Both of these are luxuries that we enjoy on rare and special occasions. Both force you to slow down and to take your time really enjoying the experience. And both have an entire culture and world of understanding to familiarize yourself with.

So whiskey and cigars are worlds worth facilizing yourself with. They are best enjoyed together. And if you are looking for a great combination to experience early on… then look no further than the Drew Estate Liga Privada Unicos Feral Flying Pig, matched with the 1792 Port Finish.

Here’s everything you need to know…

The 1792 Brand

Before we get started, it’s first worth going over the appeal of the 1792 brand.

This is a whiskey brand that specifically makes bourbon. For those new to the world of whiskey, bourbon is a type of whiskey that is brewed in the US and ideally Kentucky. It has to be made from entirely new barrels, meaning that as soon as a barrel has been used once, it will be sent away.

Bourbon has a few other differences as compared with other types of whiskey (such as scotch). For instance, it will usually be darker in color and will have more spices and flavors added.

Bourbon goes particularly well with cigars, partly because of those different flavors which can perfectly highly and compliment the flavors in the cigars themselves.

But this isn’t just any old bourbon whiskey. Of course, Jack Daniels and others such as Jim Beam are also bourbon whiskies, but these generally are not as highly regarded by true aficionados. The reason for this is that these are large batch whiskeys, designed to be affordable and aimed at the broader commercial market. On the other hand, 1792 is a brand that produces primarily small batch whiskeys (meaning that only a few barrels are used in each run) and that aims its products at the higher end of the market. The company has won countless awards for its delicious whiskeys and is worth experiencing in its own right.

1792 is based in Bardstown, Kentucky. The name is, in fact, a reference to the year that Kentucky first became a state, and this demonstrates the close cultural heritage from that all-important region.

1792 is owned by the Bardstown, Kentucky distillery, which in turn is part of the Sazerac Company. Previously, the company and the drinks were known by the name ‘Ridgewood Reserve 1792’.

The Pairing

The 1792 whiskey that we’re going to be looking at more specifically is the Port Finish. This is the ultimate compliment for the particular cigar we’re going to be talking about. It is finished with port, which of course has a significant impact on the flavor. It introduces ripe fruit flavors, candied apple, and vanilla from the oak char.

A finish in whiskey terms is also referred to as a ‘double mature.’ This is the procedure that only certain whiskeys will undertake in which the spirit is matured in a casket that has a particular origin. Many whiskeys are wine cask finished, meaning they are matured in a sherry cask. In this case, however, the whiskey is matured in a port casket.

The Flying Pig meanwhile is a cigar that is as unique as its rather strange name. Its closest relative is perhaps the Liga Privada No. 9. And the T-52. However, it is blended with part Ligero leaf, which gives it quite a punch.

The smoke is very peppery, and you will also be able to detect molasses and dark, bitter chocolate (so this will also go very well with a cup of coffee – a surprisingly effective pairing for a wide range of cigars actually).

The Feral Flying Pig is also unique in its shape. It is a Robusto 5 3/8 x 60. Full strength. Originating in Nicaragua and with a USA Connecticut Shade Wrapper.

This is an ideal pairing for anyone: whether you’re new to cigars and whiskey and you’re looking for a great experience to induct you in, or whether you’re a seasoned pro and you’re looking for something a bit unique and different that will be memorable.

How to Smoke a Cigar

If you want to really enjoy the Flying Pig and the Port Finish, then you need to make sure you smoke and drink them in the right way. While there is no right and wrong way – it comes down to how you best enjoy them – there are some things you can do to enhance your experience and to look a little more experienced in the process.

Here is how to smoke a cigar and look like you know what you’re doing.

The first tip is that you’re going to need to cut your cigar. Your cigar has two ends: a foot and a head. The foot is the part you aren’t meant to put in your mouth. This is where you’re going to light the cigar, and in most cases (though not always) it will be pre-cut. Put this in your mouth, and you’ll likely end up eating a whole lot of tobacco leaves… not nice!

The head is the sealed end and is normally the end near the band (the label that wraps around it). You’ll want to cut this about 2-3 millimeters down (right near the tip in other words) and ideally using a cigar clipper. Failing that, you can use a knife. Whatever you do, try to cut the end quickly and firmly to avoid tearing.

You can light the cigar in any way you like, but the best option is to use a torch lighter. Put the cigar in your hand and light to get it started before you put it in your mouth. Your aim here is to prime the tobacco. Try to rotate the cigar as you light it, to get a more even burn. You’ll also want to occasionally rotate the cigar as you smoke it, as this is going to help you to avoid something called ‘tunneling’ where the cigar burns faster in some parts than others.

Once the cigar is burning orange, you can stick it in your mouth and draw.

The key thing to remember now is not to inhale the smoke. If you do, you’re going to cough your lungs up and look like you have no idea what you’re doing! This is the most common confusion, as it is of course how you are meant to inhale a cigarette.

The key to doing this is to suck not with your diaphragm, but with your mouth – think of drinking something through a straw. Fill your mouth up and then blow out. You’ll need to take a few quick draws to get the cigar to produce thick white smoke, and then you can slow down and enjoy it.

Usually, you’ll take a drag about once or twice a minute, but that’s really up to you. Take your time: this can last anywhere from 30 minutes to two hours.

It’s up to you whether you want to take the band off or not. Some people do, and others don’t. If you do though, then try waiting for a couple of drags first as the heat will help to break down the adhesive.

There’s no need to keep tapping ash off as you would do with a cigarette. The higher quality the cigar, the more ash you can build up without it falling off! But don’t let it get too long as it can ruin the airflow.

Gently roll the cigar on the ashtray to break it off – don’t tap.

Closing Comments

And there you go: you now know how to enjoy a cigar, and you have the perfect cigar and whiskey combination to enjoy it with. Once you’ve spent an evening with a great bourbon and stogie… there’s no going back!

The post Drew Estate Liga Privada Unicos Feral Flying Pig and 1792 Port Finish Whiskey and Cigar Pairing appeared first on The Aspiring Gentleman.

There are some taste experiences that elevate themselves above simple foods and drinks. A good example is a coffee: this is a social event, it is a whole culture, and there is a whole lot to learn.

The same goes for smoking cigars and drinking whiskey. This is an experience and a life skill – not just a delicious and indulgent treat.

In this post, we’ll be looking at why whiskey and cigars are the perfect match, and more specifically why the Daniel Marshall Red Label and 1792 Sweet Wheat are a match made in heaven…

Why Cigars and Whiskey?

First, why enjoy a cigar and whiskey at the same time in the first place? The answer is that they can serve as the perfect complement to one another.

Both whiskey and cigars are things that you enjoy on a special occasion. They are luxuries and are a little more expensive and a little more refined than a glass of beer or a cigarette. That makes the things that you save for a special occasion. And it makes the things that you only share with people who are really important to you.

If your boss offers you a cigar, then you better accept it – as this is a great way to get closer and to really get to know the man or woman paying your wage! Likewise, if your partner’s father offers you a glass of whiskey – then it basically means you’ve been welcomed into the family!

You might receive a glass of whiskey for your 21^st birthday, or you might be given a cigar when you learn to drive or on your wedding day. These mark a special occasion.

And the reason for that is that they both force you to slow down and really appreciate them. You can’t smoke a cigar quickly, and if you ‘down’ whiskey, you’ll soon regret it.

At the same time, whiskey and cigars both complement each other perfectly in terms of the taste. These are both strong and complex flavors. They are both things that will sit in your mouth and in your stomach. They are warming, they are okay, they are smoky, and they are nutty. It’s just the same as the way that certain food-pairings work well together: like cheese and grapes. It just works.

But with all that being said, some whiskeys and some cigars are better matched than others. This article will break down an ideal combination.

The Whiskey: 1792 Sweet Wheat

First, let’s take a look at the whiskey that we’re going to be drinking.

Specifically, we’re talking about the brand 1792. This is a fantastic whiskey brand that has won a significant number of awards, and that is enjoyed by aficionados who really enjoy savoring and drinks and letting them linger.

The 1792 used to be known as the 1792 Ridgewood Reserve but has since simplified its name. That name is an homage to the year that Kentucky first became a state. As you might expect then, 1792 is located in the state, which is considered to be the real home of bourbon whiskey.

The brand is owned by the Barton 1792 Distillery, which in turn is part of the Sazerac Company. The company specializes in a number of small-batch whiskeys, typically aimed at a higher-end market as compared with the likes of Jack Daniels and others.

1792 has won countless awards for its quality and taste – and for good reason. This is a whiskey for people who really love whiskey.

As a bourbon, that means that 1792 makes dark and flavorsome whiskeys that come from the US only and that are only ever matured in brand new barrels. This is the best type of whiskey to match with a cigar – as the complex and spicy flavors will match perfectly.

1792 is a brand, however, meaning that it makes more than one type of whiskey. Specifically, it is the Sweet Wheat that we are recommending here. This is a bourbon that was made using delicate wheat as opposed to the usual rye. This provides a very smooth, very gentle flavor. Each sip will be drier and more fruity than the last, and this makes it a great whiskey for those that enjoy a sweeter flavor. As we’ll see in a moment, it is this flavor that makes the whiskey such as perfect match for the Red Label.

The Cigar: Daniel Marshall Red Label

As for the cigar, we’re going to be pairing here; we’re looking at the Daniel Marshall Red Label. This is a Nicaraguan super-premium which has a lot of positive hype surrounding it – and for good reason. It is held together by a five-year-old Nicaraguan Habano wrapper and has a very earthy core. Despite seeming quite dry at first though, that core is highlighted by notes of sweetness which come through. These will bring to mind espresso and cocoa. It’s very bold and very inviting, and it has a complex and interesting combination of flavors that is worthy of careful reflection.

And of course, it’s also that sweetness that will ideally match the sweetness that comes through in the Sweet Wheat.

A sweeter cigar and whiskey combo can be a wise choice for those that are starting out as it can be a little more welcoming than something that is very savory and very dry.

The Cigar is a medium-full strength and has Churchill 7 x 48 shape. It will only set you back $11 for a smoke! Churchills are often considered ‘serious’ cigars for those that know what they’re doing. At 7” long, they can last a good amount of time with the ring gauge of 47. They give off a thick and heavy smoke.

When choosing a cigar to enjoy, don’t make the mistake of thinking that the best cigar will be the most expensive one. Higher prices don’t always reflect the higher quality, and you likely won’t be able to distinguish the subtle tastes if you’re new to smoking anyway. Look for something mid-tier. This is a great place to start!

One useful tip though is to try feeling the cigar for hard or soft spots. A gentle roll between your fingers will tell you if the cigar has a firm and consistent texture and that in turn will give you a good indication as to whether it has been well made.

How to Enjoy Whiskey and Cigars

I talked in another post on how to enjoy a cigar the best way. So, to enjoy this combo, the remaining question is how to correctly appreciate that cold glass of whiskey. Here is what you need to know…

Firstly, it’s always a good idea to try different whiskeys. If you like American whiskey, then you have the choice of bourbon, rye, or Tennessee. Bourbon is made from at least 51% corn, while rye is made from 51% rye (no surprise!). Tennessee is filtered through charcoal. We recommend bourbon for enjoying with a cigar, hence the 1792. But do try a few to find that perfect flavor for you.

To properly enjoy whiskey, you need to drink from the right type of vessel. You can enjoy whiskey from a mug if you want… but for the ultimate experience then you need to drink from a glass – and ideally an old-fashioned or lowball glass. This is a short tumbler that holds about 6-10oz. You can also get whiskey glasses, which are tulip shaped to make it easier to ‘nose’ (smell) the whiskey. Or go retro and drink from a tin cup!

The big question, of course, is whether to drink your whiskey neat or to add ice or water (no, CocaCola is not an option here!). You should always experience the whiskey neat the first time around, as that is what it was designed for. But adding water or ice is a matter of preference. This will lower the ABV and is typically done for stronger whiskeys. Ice can take the punch off, but the most serious pros will decry it.

Finally, to drink your whiskey properly, always have a good sniff first. You can think of this as letting your nose ‘lead’ on the experience. This is a big part of where your taste comes from, and in this case, we really want to be guided by that scent. Now sip slowly and let the liquid roll around your mouth. Pick out the different flavors and really try to be present for the experience.

Oh, and one last tip: never dip your cigar in your drink!

Closing Comments

So, there you have it, another delicious combination to try out and some tips that will help you to get the very most from both your cigar and your whiskey. These are both fantastic experiences on their own. Put them together, and you have the perfect, classy way to spend an afternoon or evening. Enjoy and make sure to invite a good friend round to share the experience.

The post Daniel Marshall Red Label and 1792 Sweet Wheat appeared first on The Aspiring Gentleman.

Any foodie knows just how well the right wine pairing can compliment their dinner. This is especially true when it comes to cheese, but really any meal can be wonderfully enhanced by the right drink.

Well, it’s the exact same thing when it comes to cigars. And for cigars, only one drink will do whiskey.

If you’re someone who enjoys a good smoke and you haven’t tried pairing this with a glass of whiskey, then you’re only getting half the experience, even. And once you’ve tried this combination, you’re not going to want to go back! This is a drink for gentlemen and – like wine – it is a drink that can take a while to learn and understand. A true man’s man will know their whiskeys and their cigars and being able to make educated comments on them and recommend the best combinations… well, that’s a surefire way to impress everyone from business partners to friends, to future Fathers-in-law.

That said, this isn’t just an experience for men. Anyone can enjoy combining whiskey and cigars, so whoever you are: read on and learn more about this winning formula, and just what the best way to enjoy these two together really is.

Note: We’ll be focussing on bourbon, in particular, especially the 1792 brand. If you want to skip straight to the pairings to learn what goes best with the different products from this label, then head down to the bottom of the page and click the links. You’ll find pricing information, tips, and a whole lot more.

Your choice of tipple is about to get a whole lot classier!

Why Cigars and Whiskey Work

The first question is, what is it about cigars and whiskey that go so well in the first place?

There are a few things. On the face of it, both of these are strong flavors that are highly warming. A cigar will warm your mouth, while a whiskey creates a deep warmth in the stomach. Standing on a balcony or a roof bar and enjoying the two together is a great way to beat the elements and to feel cradled in a warm glow.

At the same time, both whiskey and cigars are designed to be enjoyed slowly. You can smoke a cigar for hours if you have the time, and likewise, you are never meant to gulp whiskey. Both are crafted with a lot of care, attention, and, and both deserve your time and appreciation.

Likewise, both these activities are esteemed. These are things you do to celebrate an important occasion. Both involve a lot of paraphernalia and the longer you take to enjoy their worlds, the more you will appreciate them both.

We all remember our first whiskey. And we likewise all remember our first cigar. Maybe you enjoyed a cigar with a colleague or boss to celebrate a deal with a client. Or perhaps you tried your first cigar with your Father when he decided you were old enough to have a few hairs on your chest (though do not make the common mistake of thinking these are male pastimes!). Similarly, whiskey is the kind of drink you offer to someone that you are welcoming to your family, or that you give as a wedding gift.

Both whiskey and cigars can come in a variety of flavors and blends. The precise experience is going to vary depending on the two you match together then, and of course, some go better than others. But when hearing the flavors of each described, you’ll find a lot of the same terminology used: they are spicy, they are oaky, they are smoky.

And so it is no surprise that they compliment each other well: bringing out the subtleties while at the same time, taking the ‘edge off’. It works for the same reason that dark chocolate and intense coffee work so well – they are both bitter, and thus they make each other taste that much sweeter.

Introducing: 1972

To really get this pairing right and to really appreciate the delicious taste and the enjoyable experience, you need to make sure you get the right whiskey, and you need to ensure you get the right cigar.

We’ll start with the whiskey. And in particular, we will be looking at the 1792 Bourbon – formerly Ridgewood Reserve 1792 and 1792 Ridgemont Reserve. This is a bourbon brand just like Jack Daniels – but it is one that carries with it a little more prestige and importance. It comes from Bardstown, Kentucky and is owned by the Barton 1792 Distillery, part of the Sazerac Company. It is part of a line of several ‘small batch’ bourbons, which are aimed at the higher end market (though not all 1792 whiskeys are small batch).

To classify as a Bourbon, a whiskey must come from the US and 95% comes from Kentucky. Ideally, you really want it to come from Kentucky. As you can see, the 1792 is steeped in the rich heritage of the region, making it all the more authentic and high quality. What’s more, is that the drink bears the label ‘Bottled in Bond’, meaning that it meets strict standards set by the 1897 act. The company has won countless awards and accolades and is well known for its general quality.

What makes this whiskey so prestigious and such a refined treat?

1792 is perhaps best known for its lines of small-batch whiskey; this means that the drink is created by mixing the contents of a small number of selected barrels. There aren’t strict criteria for what the terms specifically refers to, but generally, it means that the drink has been made from just a few barrels instead of a single barrel or thousands of barrels (the latter is the case in a drink like Jim Beam – usually a more mainstream bourbon). As a rule, small-batch whiskey tends to be higher-end.

1792 is 93.7 US proof, AKA 46.85% alcohol per volume (though again, other products from the brand do alter the strength). This makes it a very strong drink, that is ideal for enjoying in smaller quantities – a drink to sip!

The name of the bourbon has nothing to do with the year the drink was first introduced. Instead, this is a reference to the year that Kentucky was first considered a state.

What It’s Like

Depending on the product you choose, the precise nature of 1792 is going to vary slightly. You will find that the Single Barrel is significantly different from the Small Batch for instance (in fact, Single Barrel can even differ quite a lot within that product line owing to its nature!).

That said, the classic Small Batch is the staple, and a lot of the other whiskeys from 1792 will follow the template to some degree. So for those that haven’t tried it yet, what should you expect?

To look at, this is a whiskey that has an intense caramel color. It looks rich and lively and is very inviting. If you give it a swirl, you’ll see tendrils stretch around the glass. This is a thick and somewhat sweet drink then.

In terms of the flavors you’re going to get: this is a fairly tannic and peppery drink, with a woody profile. You might notice a slight hint of maple in the taste too.

But remember: taste and particularly in regard to pairings is very much about the aromas. The nose on this drink then is a much sweeter experience and is rich with orange and spices (which is a clue as to the high rye content). You might also catch hints of that woodiness.

This helps to explain that delicious pairing. The woodiness helps to really compliment the cigar, while the sweetness will nicely contrast and cut through any dryness.

You’ll also notice from this drink an oaky finish which sits long on the tong. It’s drying and warm and coat the tongue.

How to Enjoy Whiskey and Cigars

So how do you go about pairing the right cigar and the right whiskey? How do you go about enjoying each to its fullest?

In terms of pairings, there are a few different things to consider.

For one, you should consider the length of the experience. These two luxuries work best together, and so you ideally want a longer drink for a longer cigar. Say you were to choose a cigar with a longer smoking time, such as the Ramon Allones Specially Selected. In this case, you might select a whiskey that can be enjoyed in larger quantities, such as the Redbeast.

Of course, there’s also the small matter of the taste – both the flavor itself and the strength of that flavor. As a rule, the aim is for whiskey and cigars that complement each other and are roughly ‘equally matched’. In other words, you don’t want to pair an incredibly strong whiskey with a mild cigar – or the cigar will be eaten alive! Try to make sure that this is an equal partnership, with both sides of the equation coming through equally.

So, if you were perhaps to choose a Romeo Y Julieta Petit Julietas (the cigar smoked by none other than Churchill himself), then you may want to pair that with something like the Bruichladdich. The Bruichladdich has many layers of flavor that are subtle and mild. The Petit Julietas is also a very mild flavor, and as such, the two will complement each other very nicely.

Of course, you may find that it takes a while before you can learn the subtle art of pairing whiskey and cigars. If you are new to both, then you should expect this to take time.

But what you can always do is to look for an exciting cigar or whiskey you want to smoke/drink, and then go from there by looking for ideas. Just do a quick Google search and look for ‘best whiskey to pair with X cigar’ or ‘best cigar to pair with X whiskey’. This will give you the thread you need to pull, and you’ll have lots of great combinations to try out with a friend. Just make sure it’s a good friend who deserves your fine cigars and high-end liquor!

Tip: Why not go the extra mile? You don’t need to stop at whiskey and cigars, you can also throw food pairings into the mix, and some of these can get quite creative. For instance, sticking a piece of bacon into a bourbon whiskey can be surprisingly delicious, and it’s also a great conversation starter. You can thank Tim Ferriss for that one!

Tip 2: Or if you want to be really adventurous, then you can try adding other drinks. I mentioned dark chocolate and coffee before, but you might be surprised to learn that coffee and cigars also go very nicely! Why not finish up the experience with a nice cup of Joe? Other popular options are craft beer and soda. Experiment and it will help to inform your palette, thereby helping you to make better choices and find better drinking and smoking experiences!

Bourbon vs Scotch for Cigars

One easy tip that you should have no problem committing to memory though is that bourbon is almost always superior to scotch when it comes to pairing with whiskey. You may prefer scotch, and there are the odd instances of scotch working very well with cigars, but for the most part, it’s always going to be bourbon that comes out on top.

Bourbon fits the tone and the feel of a cigar for starters. It’s brewed in the USA (ideally in Kentucky), and it’s 51% corn. It has a dry, earthy tone to it and it feels like you’re a part of the Wild West. It is somehow abrasive and harsh, but also sweet and intriguing.

But perhaps the most important distinction is that Bourbon needs to be aged in a new, charred oak barrel to count as real bourbon. Once it has been used once, that barrel is sent off for recycling – or perhaps to be used in some other part of the world. But that genuine 100% USA whiskey will always come from a fresh new barrel.

This is why you’ll find that a 15-year-old bourbon looks significantly darker than a scotch. It’s also the reason that bourbon has a much richer and bolder flavor (scotch is more generously described as ‘smooth’).

Now, of course, Scotch is the ‘original’ whiskey, and it is legendary in its own right. Scotch must be made in Scotland, it needs to be 80 proof, and it must be made from barley with no other added substances (except coloring). All scotch must be aged in oak casks for at least three years.

Now, many people will tell you that Scotch is the ideal whiskey to pair. In fact, this is vehemently argued by many people. It is the ‘original’ after all, and many people find that this makes it somehow more classy.

But the wild-West appeal of the Bourbon and the cigar won’t disappear. And not only that but those new barrels give a smoky feel that feels like the perfect match for a good cigar. The more inventive spices and flavors likewise give you many more flavor combinations to go with your new-fangled cigars. It’s classic, while at the same time giving you lots of amazing new things to try.

Do yourself a favor and just try it!

Some Great Pairings for 1792

We’ve talked about the 1792 and so that’s what we’re going to be focussing on here. This is a fantastic bourbon label that is made to an exceedingly high quality. It’s been around a long time, it’s authentic, and its great flavors and aromas are the perfect match for those cigars.

This is a great starting point, and from there, you can try out any of these pairings – try out the different whiskeys from the company and try them with these ideal cigar combos. Or click on the link to be taken to the page for more details.

Oliva Serie V Melanio W/ 1792 High Rye

This is a limited release cigar that is a ‘sequel’ of sorts to the Oliva Aos Serie V. It’s a cigar made from an Ecuadorian-grown Sumatra leaf. It is dark, thick and oily and it has notes of leather and coffee (also one to try with a mug of brew then!). It perfectly compliments the spicy, yet sweet complexity of the 1792 High Rye.

My Father Le Bijou 1922 W/ 1792 Small Batch

This is a medium to full strength cigar from Nicaragua that once again works perfectly with 1792 Small Batch. You should really notice the vanilla and caramel coming through during this combination, and the cigar itself is a peppery and full-bodied experience. This is an elegant and sophisticated combination, ideal for a special evening.

Padron 50^th Anniversary Limited Edition W/ 1792 Single Barrel

To go with a 1792 Single Barrel, the Padron is one of the best-known names in the entire cigar industry and with good reason. This 50^th Anniversary Limited Edition is a fitting homage to the company’s fame and prestige, and it is clear that a lot of thought and planning has gone into its sweet and tangy flavor. It has notes of maple syrup and orange citrus, which perfectly match the sweetness that can be found in any glass of 1792.

Fuente Fuente Opus X Lost City W/ 1792 Full Proof

For the 1792 Full Proof, we have for you the Fuente Fuente Opus X Lost City. It’s a romantic and thought-provoking title for a smoke, and the Lost City lives up to those notions. It is made with tobacco grown on the Fuente estate (hence the name), which must be aged for five years before production. It has an oily wrapper and Dominican filler which gives a rich and creamy smoke with earthy, cedar flavors and aromas.

This is a strong tasting cigar, and that makes it the perfect choice to go with the powerful 1792 Full proof.

Drew Estate Liga Privada Unicos Feral Flying Pig W/ 1792 Port Finish

As the name ‘flying pig’ might lead you to anticipate, this is a highly original and unique cigar – both in terms of its flavor and in terms of its shape. It is very similar to the Liga Privada No 9 and T-52, but this time blended with part Ligero leaf to provide that extra punch. It is a peppery smoking experience, with molasses and a bitter dark chocolate. It goes perfectly with the 1792 Port Finish, which is packed with dark, ripe fruits and candied-apple and vanilla.

Daniel Marshall Red Label W/ 1792 Sweet Wheat

Daniel Marshall Red Label is a Nicaraguan ‘super-premium’. This is fine smoking in all of its glory, and that includes everything from the Nicaraguan Habano wrapper to the earthy core (with notes of sweetness and espresso).

This is a very bold and inviting combination that is ideal when paired with a glass of 1792 Sweet Wheat. As this one is crafted with wheat instead of rye, it is somewhat different from the others on this list and marks more of a contrasting flavor.

Closing Comments

Hopefully, this post has inspired you to consider combining whiskey and cigars to get the very most from each. I hope you’re already picturing sitting in a leather armchair, sipping on a cold whiskey and taking long drags on a fat cigar.

Likewise, I hope that it has given you some ideas for starting points. The 1792 is a particularly excellent bourbon whiskey and trying out any of these combinations (click the links for more) is a guaranteed luxurious experience and fantastic learning opportunity.

Over time, you will start to discover what you like, and you can even start playing with some of the variables yourself. But start with these, and we can guarantee some excellent evenings and a gentle learning curve to get to grips with the wonderful world of cigar and whiskey pairings.

The post Why Cigars and Whiskey Are the Perfect Match Made in Heaven (And How to Pair Them) appeared first on The Aspiring Gentleman.

This is a guest post courtesy of Paul Agelidis, the Founder and Owner at Revolucion, a cigar, tobacco and men’s gift shop in beautiful Vancouver, BC.

If you are a cigar enthusiast, you’ve probably at least heard of the Dupont Le Grand LE lighters before. Odds are, you’ve not only heard of them but you sorely want one to add to your collection. Designed for cigar smokers, the Le Grand series have the look of the classic series of lighters by Dupont, but have added bells and whistles that make them even better. However, that also means that they cost more than the classic series. So, are the Le Grand lighters worth the money? Here’s our review.

Premium Cigar Lighters for Connoisseurs

First, let’s get the basic facts out of the way. The Le Grand series comes in three versions, or finishes, with prices ranging from $1,295 for the low end version, $1,495 for the middle, and $1,695 for the high end version. Each lighter is handcrafted in France with premium materials and special techniques to achieve the lacquering and guilloche appearances.

First is the “Grey” base version made from palladium, with an embossed texture in the natural palladium color. In the middle is the “Black” version, which is also made from palladium but has a smooth texture, with a black lacquer finish combined with natural palladium color mixed in. Lastly, there is the “Brown” version made from yellow gold with a bright gold finish. All three versions come in a gorgeous gift box, with the Brown version also coming with a numbered plaque to help make it look extra-special, as it deserves to be.

So the Dupont Le Grand are deluxe cigar lighters that use premium materials to look great and last forever, but it functions the same as the classic cigar lighter you want. It uses butane fuel with a guilloche roller to adjust the flame settings, and uses a traditional wheel to strike the flint for the basic soft flame. It is the other tricks the Le Grand lighter can do with its flame that helps set it further apart from other cigar lighters.

Twin Flame Technology

The signature feature of the Dupont Le Grand lighter is the “twin flame” technology it uses to provide extra flexibility to cigar smokers. It has the basic soft flint flame that you’d want to use in most circumstances to light your cigars normally. However, anyone who’s tried to light a cigar with a match or a soft flame while they’re outdoors on a windy day knows how frustrating it can be to keep a decent enough flame to light your cigar.

That’s why the Le Grand also has a button to turn your soft flame into a torch flame. After you spin the wheel to light the soft flame, you press the wheel up to activate the butane torch that stays lit easily in the wind. If you try and push the torch button before using the basic soft flame ignition it won’t work, and you’ll just be releasing fuel into the air — a handy safety feature to avoid accidentally activating the torch flame. The extra flexibility means you can use your Le Grand lighter anywhere.

Are They Worth the Money?

Premium materials and a handy extra flame setting so you can still use it on a windy day outside are great and all, but are the Dupont Le Grand lighters worth $1,300+?

In short, it depends — because there’s no getting around that price tag. If you just smoke cigars now and then, you probably only ever want to use matches or a lighter that costs a fraction of that price. However, if you’re a cigar enthusiast, connoisseur, and collector of higher-end cigars and accessories, this will be right up your alley. If you’re even thinking about buying one but want to know if it will hold up, you have our assurance that it is worth the cost.

In addition to the high quality materials and useful features, the Le Grand is also highly durable and will last a long time. The lacquer is highly resistant to damage caused by acids, impact, scratches, friction, liquids, and so on. It can be easily cleaned by the same products and procedures you would use on jewelry, glasses, and silver. They also come with a two year warranty from Dupont, as well as a special maintenance program to ensure they will last. Dupont also makes special replacement components for the flint and gas tubes, so you get the same flame performance every time.

The durability, premium materials, and exclusivity of the DuPont Le Grand lighters means that they will likely maintain a similar value to what they cost to buy now. In fact, with the Brown version being numbered and more rare, they might also increase in value as a special collector’s item over time.

About the Author:

Paul Agelidis has been the founder and owner of Revolucion, a Canadian cigar, tobacco and men’s gift shop in Vancouver, since 2005. For the last decade Paul has worked very hard to become an expert in tobacco products, men’s care, travel & accessories, body & bath, and gifts & home. Prior to 2005, from 1997 – 2005 Paul worked in the wholesale cigar industry and travelled to the annual cigar trade show (Habanos Festival every February). He loves to share his tips with others who are looking to achieve a complete lifestyle with the finer things in life.

Image credits; Image credits; Image credits

The post An Accessory Review: The Dupont Le Grand LE Lighter appeared first on The Aspiring Gentleman.

We all know of the delicious flavours that can be found online and in stores when it comes to searching for vaping liquids, but how can you truly get the most out of your flavours? Many people do not realise how well certain snacks can complement some of the most popular e-liquid flavours on the market, which is why we’re here to shine a light on how you can enjoy vaping unlike ever before. So, browse an e liquid UK range, choose your flavour, and take a look at our guide below to really tantalise your taste buds as you vape.

Danish Pastries

Whether you’re a morning vaper or you simply love to dive into a pastry at lunch time, you can be certain that you will be able to find a vape juice to really help you to make the most of your pastry snack. Pair your Danish pastry with an apple flavoured vape juice. We all know how amazing apple turnovers taste, but an apple vape juice paired with the taste of cinnamon or maple from your pastry will see your taste buds having a party in your mouth. Enjoy a medley of complex flavours, without having to suffer with dulling taste buds that regular cigarette smoking can cause.

Nuts

There are a great number of benefits to eating nuts, including the fact that they are packed with protein, as well as offering a number of essential fats and also high levels of fibre. Nuts are the ideal choice if you’re on a health kick or if you’re simply looking for a mix to chew on to get you through the day without suffering with those hunger pangs. But if you’re a nut eater, why not pair your delicious selection with a tobacco flavoured vape? You’ll find that you can bring out all of the elements of the tobacco flavour when you pair your vape juice with nuts of all kinds, as a result of their coating often being in a range of sweet or spicy options.

Ice-cream Or Brownies

Strawberry, vanilla and custard flavours are some of the most popular out of all of the e liquids that you can find on the market, but how can you truly get the most out of the flavour? By pairing it with something sweet of course! Those who love ice cream or chocolate brownies are certain to enjoy a tantalising taste when you pair this snack with a strawberry, vanilla or custard vape juice. Don’t forget that you can combine even more flavours by opting for a vanilla custard or strawberry custard vape juice!

Dark Chocolate

Cherry is one of the most versatile flavours that you can find when it comes to vape juice and is commonly paired with dark chocolate flavours to truly bring out the richness of the cherry. This is why you should ensure that you indulge in some delicious, high quality dark chocolates when it comes to vaping a cherry e liquid in order to truly make the most out of the taste.

Citrus Fruits

If you’re looking for something a little healthier than ice-cream, brownies or dark chocolate, then why not opt for some citrus fruits, or fruits like an apple that can give a zing to your vape juice. If you are opting for this, then pair your fruit of choice with banana or nut flavours, to truly bring out the mellow tastes. If you’re an early morning vapour, then this is the ideal choice for you to kickstart your day.

There are a great number of flavour combinations that you can choose from when it comes to vaping, allowing you to make the most out of your vaping experience. Pairing your e liquid with the perfect snack has never been easier.

Image credits: Image credits

The post 5 Of The Perfect Vaping Snacks appeared first on The Aspiring Gentleman.

Introduction

Vaping and steam are needed for every household. Be it for cooking or taking care of plants or for medical purposes, a vaporizer is a must have for every household. Depending upon the need, there are a variety of types of vaporizers available in the market. There are the big desktop ones which are capable of high power vapor generation. There are the handheld vaporizers which can be taken around to places as needed. One such compact and high-quality vaporizer is the Firefly 2 vaporizer. Let’s look into the details of its usage and specifications.

Firefly 2 Vaporizer Product Specifications

• The Chamber Dimensions of the Firefly 2 vaporizer are 17mm x 17mm x 8mm.
• The Chamber Volume is of 0.2g.
• The Firefly 2 vaporizer has a heat-up time of up to 400°F in just a time of 3 seconds.
• The Vapor Path of the vaporizer is made up of Borosilicate glass.
• The vaporizer takes less than 45 minutes to get fully charged with the Quick charge AC adapter that comes along with the Firefly 2 vaporizer.
• The dimensions of the vaporizer are 5.1” x 1.4” x 0.95”.
• It comes with rechargeable as well as replaceable 7.4V Li-Ion batteries.
• The Firefly 2 vaporizer has Dual capacitive touch sensors which are used to activate the device.
• The Mouthpiece of the vaporizer is made from FDA-food safe Triton polymer which is BPA free.
• The Heating Element of the Firefly 2 vaporizer is made of Titanium Super Alloy.

Exciting Features of The Firefly 2 Vaporizer

Excellent Flavor and Zero Wastage

The Firefly 2 vaporizer has a dynamic convection technology. This lets the vaporizer give out fresh and flavorful vapor in just a matter of a few seconds. There is zero wastage of time as well as resources since the vaporizer does not burn any of the precious herbs and oils while vaporizing. Even the medication is heated along with the user inhaling it. Thus, there is no wastage.

Quick Vaporization

The Firefly 2 vaporizer starts to generate vapor in just a matter of 3 seconds after the device is turned on. This helps to save precious time. Fresh vapor is always at the disposal of the user. It is just a click away.

Useful for Medical Purposes

The Firefly 2 vaporizer can cool down at the same pace at which it heats. Thus, it can be effectively used for different medical purposes at different times. There is no need to wait for long time for the device to cool down since even cooling is as fast as heating.

A Precise and Intelligent control system

The Firefly 2 vaporizer allows the user to set any temperature in the range of 200° and 500°F. This is the largest range of heating temperatures available in the portable vaporizer range. On connecting the Firefly 2 vaporizer to the free iOS or Android apps, one can ensure to be always updated with the latest vaporization technology.

Easily usable

The Firefly 2 vaporizer has a smooth surface made from borosilicate glass. It also has an easy to use magnetic lid which makes the task of loading and cleaning very easy.

Swappable Batteries

With a pair of swappable Batteries, one can be sure of it never running out of power supply.

Fast charge

The portable charger charges the Firefly 2 vaporizer in a time of less than an hour.

Thus, with such an exciting set of features, you need not think twice whether to buy the Firefly 2 vaporizer. It’s just not possible to get away from it once you start using it.

The post Fly Away Your Worries with The Firefly 2 Vaporizer appeared first on The Aspiring Gentleman.

Golf makes a man.

As golf enthusiasts we’re tired of the well worn cliches about golf being a gentleman’s game. We have heard it before and don’t need a reminder to stroke our ego. We all play golf for our own reasons but quickly unite together because the game for all that golf adds to our wellbeing– it simply translates over to our lifestyle. Yes, it’s really does become a part of life and I came up with a list of reasons to show just how that happens.

5. Getting In Shape

Let’s not kid ourselves. Playing eighteen holes of golf is not the same as a full court basketball game or full-contact football. But gold doesn’t pretend to be and instead I liken it more to baseball as a sport that people of all shapes and size can play to become healthy. Just consider that an average golf course can range between three and four miles. Players walking and swinging their clubs to eighteen holes while playing a few times each week is bound to achieve a high level of endurance. If you carry your own clubs, you will burn even more calories and gain more strength. No, it won’t help you to reach your peak fitness but it will keep you fit, lose weight and body fat, and even improve your muscle mass.

4. Defining Our Style

What you wear says a lot about you down to the watch on your wrist and the shoes on your feat. Unlike most sports where uniforms are the norm, golf promotes our individuality. We can choose what we wear how we wear it. The elegant stylish choices in slacks, polo shirts, golf cleats help make the gentleman. Plenty of blogs like Male-Mode or Aspiring Gentleman for men offer some helpful style tips. Or women reading this can take a look at Ms. Career Girl too.

3. Learning To Socialize With Anyone

Guys and gals of all ages play the game. We often play with our friends but it is also common to play as part of a business meeting, networking, a date, or even with a randomly assigned group of middle-aged women or older men if you have nobody to play with. It’s a social sport by nature as you trek through the beautifully manicured courses making small talk and even Male-Mode with your competitors. It’s not an ideal sport if you prefer to keep quiet, but rather, provides plenty of opportunities to develop and practice social skills with people of all backgrounds. All of that downtime helps to make you closer and come away feeling more social after a day of eighteen holes.

2. Building Our Mental Health

Socialization, competition, exposure to nature and the sun, exercise, and plenty more factors work together to build your mental health.

The constant exposure to the green in beautiful locales like Ocean City, Maryland or abroad in Tenerife helps reduce anxiety and stress while the sunlight provides ample vitamin D nutrients important to your overall health. As you focus on placing that tiny white ball into a hole both far away or the concentration to place it yards away helps to exercise your vision, improve hand-eye coordination, and focus your mind. Even the simple act of swinging your club back and forth over a prolonged period of time helps your blood flow to your brain to stimulate your nerve cell connections.

Most important of all is the mental focus, strategy (which club to use, how hard to hit the golf ball, etc,), and competition as you try to beat your previous high score–thereby increasing self esteem, confidence, and more. All of these physical and mental aspects join together to create a healthier and happier mind.

1. Happiness Comes From Passion

Fitness, mental health, socializing, are a few of the factors that can turn golf from a basic hobby into a passion. Being on the course with other like-minded people in a natural environment and competing in a relaxed manner will inevitably release endorphins. These endorphins are important mood enhancing chemicals in our brain that ultimately make you happier. Happiness comes in part from our passions and it’s no secret that gold becomes a passion for most who give the sport a try.

The post Golf: Top Five Ways Golf Becomes Our Lifestyle appeared first on The Aspiring Gentleman.

There is no denying that smoking kills. Yearly, over 6 million cases of smoking-related deaths are recorded worldwide.  With numbers like this, there is a bigger clamor to find a solution to this widespread addiction. The problem is that even people who do smoke admit to how hard it is to quit. While many believe that the only solution is to go cold-turkey, it has proven to both be ineffective and for some, unbearable. These days, the most common way of gradually solving this addiction is by switching to vaping.

Vaping is a great way to transition out of cigarette smoking, but they have been less than ideal. They taste funny, the battery dies after a few uses, and the nicotine hit does not match that of an actual cigarette, making people tend to revert to cigarette smoking even more.

In comes NJOY Daily.

Painstakingly crafted by two Stanford University trained PhD’s to be a technologically superior electronic cigarette, NJOY Daily hope to help people lessen their smoking habits by upgrading this technology.

The NJOY Daily electronic cigarette represents a breakthrough on this critical dimension with a technology that allows quick and strong nicotine satisfaction at levels close to an actual cigarette, without the hazardous effects of tar.

Trying it for myself, here are my thoughts.

Flavor –

The NJOY Daily Cigarette comes in Rich Tobacco, Menthol, and Blueberry flavors. It actually does taste like an actual cigarette, without the problem of the smell sticking to your clothes. Unlike other vapes whose flavor actually hits the back of your tongue after a second or two, this provides a steady hit of flavor from the moment it touches your tastebuds. It isn’t overpowering, but it isn’t too mild either.

Packaging –

These come in options of

1 Pack – $5.99

5 Pack – $23.99 (20% savings per stick)

20 Pack – $89.99 (25% savings per stick)

100 Pack – $399.99 (33% savings per stick)

These options allow you to try it without the commitment of spending too much on it. It also makes for a great gift idea for people who are trying to lessen their smoking. Each stick lasts about 300 puffs, which can go a very long way. It fits in your pocket the way a cigarette would as it resembles  the size and look of an actual cigarette. It is modest in aesthetics, the way a lot of people switching to electronic cigarette usually prefer it. If you are the type to want a bulky show piece of an electronic cigar, this is not the one for you. If you want one that you can bring with you anywhere and smoke without drawing attention, then this is perfect.

Nicotine Hit –

What is amazing about this product is that upon taking my first puff, I could already feel the buzz of a nicotine hit. It has a QuickVapor Technology that allows its smoker to feel the nicotine right away, unlike how it works with other electronic cigarettes. Usually I would take 2-3 hits before I feel the hit of nicotine when vaping. This product delivers on its promise of coming close to an actual cigarette, leaving you fully satisfied and helping you put it down instead of constantly huffing for hours.

The Verdict? The NJoy Daily was truly a delight. Other more experienced vapers may find this product too simplistic without its variety of flavored liquids and massive atomizers, but for someone who is trying to transition away from cigarette smoking, this is definitely a must-try.

You can buy NJOY Daily through : NJoy.com

The post Switch To Vaping With NJOY Daily appeared first on The Aspiring Gentleman.

Finding the perfect combination of whiskey and cigar is a glorious discovery and one that can provide the ideal luxurious evening with a friend, family member, or partner. Let the smoky flavor of the cigar fill your mouth and compliment the taste of the whiskey as it warms your stomach.

This is the ultimate in class and sophistication and the ideal way to celebrate a big occasion, or to bond with a friend. Alternatively, it can be a great way to relax and muse, or the perfect accompaniment for a good book.

So how do you go about finding this ideal combination? Well, we’ve got one here for you that hits hard and really makes an impact. It’s the Fuente Fuente Opus X Lost City, matched with a 1792 Full Proof.

Why This Combination

A great combo like this is always more than the sum of its parts, but of course, it still makes sense to start by looking at precisely what each element brings to the table.

So first up, let’s talk about that whiskey.

1792 is one of the best known and most sought-after brands around when it comes to whiskey. This is a bourbon that was previously known as the Ridgewood Reserve 1792. It comes from Bardstown, Kentucky, and in fact, the name itself is a reference to the year that Kentucky first became a State! It is owned by the Sazerac Company and is aimed at the ‘higher end’ market of whiskey enthusiasts. It has won countless awards owing to its superior quality and great taste, which makes it a perfect choice for anyone looking for a whiskey that is not just a drink, but a whole ‘experience.’

1792 make a range of different whiskeys, but of course, the Full Proof is a stronger variant. It comes in at 125 proof (or 62.5%abv), which gives it a robust flavor and makes it intoxicating in the best kind of way. This is definitely a whiskey to be enjoyed slowly, which ideally suits the long smoke of the Lost City.

The Bourbon also has some other unique features to it. It goes through a unique filtration system for instance, rather than the usual chill filtration. This helps to maintain more of the robust flavors. This is more than a match for a stronger type of cigar.

There is, of course, a debate as to whether a bourbon or a Scotch is the ideal combination to pair with cigars. The answer is obviously going to be a matter of personal preference: but with that said, we strongly prefer the bourbon in this context. That’s thanks to its slightly more flavorsome nature (which makes it more interesting to match with a wide variety of different cigars) as well as a lot of the romantic notions surrounding bourbon. This is the drink of the wild west – and thus is the perfect choice to match with a big fat cigar!

Speaking of which, how about that cigar? So, what we’re looking at here is a cigar made with Fuente estate grown tobacco (hence the name), that has been aged five years before production. It has a beautiful, oily wrapper and a Dominican filler that provides the rich and creamy smoke.

It is full of robust, earthy flavors and also has a cedar aroma. It’s a strong and impactful cigar that makes a big statement and then sticks around long after the fact. This is what makes it such an ideal match for the full proof – because it is actually strong enough for you to pick it up!

You could say that matching the Lost City with full proof is foolproof.

The cigar is full strength and has a Toro 6 ¾ x 48 design. Its price is somewhat mid-range at $30 – enough to be a treat but without being prohibitively expensive.

Try this combination, really savor it, and we guarantee you’ll be impressed!

Cigar Terminology

In a review of another combination, we went over some of the more popular whiskey terminology. This is important not only to help you make more informed decisions when purchasing and enjoying whiskey but also so that you can avoid feeling foolish in a group by not knowing what everyone is talking about!

Now we have some cigar terminology to provide the very same service! Here are some useful terms that you should keep in mind if you’re new to the world of cigars and whiskey. Smoke like a pro!

Aging

Aging refers to the amount of time that cigars are left in a humidity controlled environment. These areas are usually called ‘aging rooms,’ and in here, they will be left undisturbed so that they can evolve and mature. Many cigar aficionados believe that aging a cigar for longer can help to bring out the best characteristics more strongly.

Aroma

Like whiskey, you can refer to a cigar’s aroma which will have a big impact on your experience of smoking it.

Band

The band is the label that you will find around the center of the cigar.

Bulk

This is a pile of tobacco leaves that are left to generate heat. This process is referred to as sweating.

Binder

The binder is the leaf on the cigar that holds the whole thing together. This will be chosen due to its durability, and it will usually come from a coarse leaf at the top of the tobacco plant.

Cap

This is the small piece of wrapper leaf that you will find attached to the head of the cigar. The purpose of this cap is to secure the wrapper in place.

Churchill

Churchill, of course, was the prime minister in England during WW2. He was also well-known for smoking cigars, which is why there is now a cigar shape named after him. That would be a long, straight cigar with a medium-to-thick body shape.

Corona

Another cigar shape. This one is a thick cigar with a straight body.

Culebra

This is a cigar that has a braided or twisted body.

Draw

When you draw, you breathe in through the cigar – pulling in air and filtering it through the tobacco leaves. The way you draw your cigar is important: it should be smooth and easy. If it draws too quickly, then the air will be much hotter and won’t taste good. This is the mark of a poorly crafted cigar. On the other hand, if the draw is slower and the air that comes in is cool and tasty, then it is well made.

That said, if the cigar is too hard to draw on, then this isn’t good either. You might likewise find that it goes out multiple times during your smoke. That means it has been wrapped too tightly.

Filler

These are the leaves inside the binder which make up the body of the cigar.

Flavor

Of course, a cigar has a flavor. There are also a number of terms you might commonly use to describe the flavor of a cigar, which can include: spicy, sweet, earthy, cedar, oak, fruity, leathery, roasted, nutty, cocoa. If you want to impress friends when smoking cigars, then learn some of these terms!

Foot

The foot is the end of the cigar that you will light. You will find that this end tends to be pre-cut, unlike the head. This is how you know which end to draw from!

Head

This is the closed end of the cigar and the end you are meant to put in your mouth. Usually, this will need to be cut by the user. You should use a cigar cutter to do this and should clip your cigar about 1/16 to 1/8 of an inch down (roughly equivalent to 2-3 millimeters). Do this before lighting the foot.

Hot

If the cigar has a quick draw, then you can describe it as being ‘hot.’

Plugged

Conversely, a cigar that is difficult to draw is referred to as being ‘plugged.’

Tunneling

Worse than a hot or plugged cigar, is a cigar that tunnels. Tunneling means that the cigar burns unevenly. The solution is to try and carefully turn the cigar as you are smoking it.

Vintage

This term is used to refer to the year the tobacco was harvested.

Wrapper

The wrapper is the cigar leaf that is wrapped around the filler and the binder. This should have no wrinkles, spots, veins or tears.

Wrapping Up

And with that, we are also ready to wrap up. Hopefully, this article has woken you up to another great cigar and whiskey combination. Give it a try and keep in mind these tips for understanding your cigars to enjoy it to the very fullest. You should find that this is a combination that is punchy, powerful, and readily able to stick in your mind.

And of course, if you want more recommendations, be sure to check the rest of this site and our other pairing ideas.

The post Fuente Fuente Opus X Lost City and 1792 Full Proof Cigar and Whiskey Pairing appeared first on The Aspiring Gentleman.

Learning to enjoy cigars and cigarettes is a skill that is worth putting in the time for any gentleman who wants to go far in life.

Being offered a fine cigar is a mark of respect and often a gesture of friendship. We smoke cigars to celebrate important occasions and significant successes. We smoke them on stag parties, in business meetings, and when being introduced to the in-law’s family.

In other words, if you can appreciate a cigar, then you will be well-equipped to deal with a wide range of different situations and to impress all kinds of people that you want to influence.

And the best way to appreciate a cigar? With some whiskey! A good cigar is just calling out to be enjoyed with a whiskey. That way, you can appreciate the taste all the more, as the whiskey compliments and contrasts the taste of the cigar in a myriad of ways. It will also prevent your mouth from feeling overly dry and provide you with a more complex and interesting palette.

Cigars and whiskey go perfectly together. Both of these are luxuries that we enjoy on rare and special occasions. Both force you to slow down and to take your time really enjoying the experience. And both have an entire culture and world of understanding to familiarize yourself with.

So whiskey and cigars are worlds worth facilizing yourself with. They are best enjoyed together. And if you are looking for a great combination to experience early on… then look no further than the Drew Estate Liga Privada Unicos Feral Flying Pig, matched with the 1792 Port Finish.

Here’s everything you need to know…

The 1792 Brand

Before we get started, it’s first worth going over the appeal of the 1792 brand.

This is a whiskey brand that specifically makes bourbon. For those new to the world of whiskey, bourbon is a type of whiskey that is brewed in the US and ideally Kentucky. It has to be made from entirely new barrels, meaning that as soon as a barrel has been used once, it will be sent away.

Bourbon has a few other differences as compared with other types of whiskey (such as scotch). For instance, it will usually be darker in color and will have more spices and flavors added.

Bourbon goes particularly well with cigars, partly because of those different flavors which can perfectly highly and compliment the flavors in the cigars themselves.

But this isn’t just any old bourbon whiskey. Of course, Jack Daniels and others such as Jim Beam are also bourbon whiskies, but these generally are not as highly regarded by true aficionados. The reason for this is that these are large batch whiskeys, designed to be affordable and aimed at the broader commercial market. On the other hand, 1792 is a brand that produces primarily small batch whiskeys (meaning that only a few barrels are used in each run) and that aims its products at the higher end of the market. The company has won countless awards for its delicious whiskeys and is worth experiencing in its own right.

1792 is based in Bardstown, Kentucky. The name is, in fact, a reference to the year that Kentucky first became a state, and this demonstrates the close cultural heritage from that all-important region.

1792 is owned by the Bardstown, Kentucky distillery, which in turn is part of the Sazerac Company. Previously, the company and the drinks were known by the name ‘Ridgewood Reserve 1792’.

The Pairing

The 1792 whiskey that we’re going to be looking at more specifically is the Port Finish. This is the ultimate compliment for the particular cigar we’re going to be talking about. It is finished with port, which of course has a significant impact on the flavor. It introduces ripe fruit flavors, candied apple, and vanilla from the oak char.

A finish in whiskey terms is also referred to as a ‘double mature.’ This is the procedure that only certain whiskeys will undertake in which the spirit is matured in a casket that has a particular origin. Many whiskeys are wine cask finished, meaning they are matured in a sherry cask. In this case, however, the whiskey is matured in a port casket.

The Flying Pig meanwhile is a cigar that is as unique as its rather strange name. Its closest relative is perhaps the Liga Privada No. 9. And the T-52. However, it is blended with part Ligero leaf, which gives it quite a punch.

The smoke is very peppery, and you will also be able to detect molasses and dark, bitter chocolate (so this will also go very well with a cup of coffee – a surprisingly effective pairing for a wide range of cigars actually).

The Feral Flying Pig is also unique in its shape. It is a Robusto 5 3/8 x 60. Full strength. Originating in Nicaragua and with a USA Connecticut Shade Wrapper.

This is an ideal pairing for anyone: whether you’re new to cigars and whiskey and you’re looking for a great experience to induct you in, or whether you’re a seasoned pro and you’re looking for something a bit unique and different that will be memorable.

How to Smoke a Cigar

If you want to really enjoy the Flying Pig and the Port Finish, then you need to make sure you smoke and drink them in the right way. While there is no right and wrong way – it comes down to how you best enjoy them – there are some things you can do to enhance your experience and to look a little more experienced in the process.

Here is how to smoke a cigar and look like you know what you’re doing.

The first tip is that you’re going to need to cut your cigar. Your cigar has two ends: a foot and a head. The foot is the part you aren’t meant to put in your mouth. This is where you’re going to light the cigar, and in most cases (though not always) it will be pre-cut. Put this in your mouth, and you’ll likely end up eating a whole lot of tobacco leaves… not nice!

The head is the sealed end and is normally the end near the band (the label that wraps around it). You’ll want to cut this about 2-3 millimeters down (right near the tip in other words) and ideally using a cigar clipper. Failing that, you can use a knife. Whatever you do, try to cut the end quickly and firmly to avoid tearing.

You can light the cigar in any way you like, but the best option is to use a torch lighter. Put the cigar in your hand and light to get it started before you put it in your mouth. Your aim here is to prime the tobacco. Try to rotate the cigar as you light it, to get a more even burn. You’ll also want to occasionally rotate the cigar as you smoke it, as this is going to help you to avoid something called ‘tunneling’ where the cigar burns faster in some parts than others.

Once the cigar is burning orange, you can stick it in your mouth and draw.

The key thing to remember now is not to inhale the smoke. If you do, you’re going to cough your lungs up and look like you have no idea what you’re doing! This is the most common confusion, as it is of course how you are meant to inhale a cigarette.

The key to doing this is to suck not with your diaphragm, but with your mouth – think of drinking something through a straw. Fill your mouth up and then blow out. You’ll need to take a few quick draws to get the cigar to produce thick white smoke, and then you can slow down and enjoy it.

Usually, you’ll take a drag about once or twice a minute, but that’s really up to you. Take your time: this can last anywhere from 30 minutes to two hours.

It’s up to you whether you want to take the band off or not. Some people do, and others don’t. If you do though, then try waiting for a couple of drags first as the heat will help to break down the adhesive.

There’s no need to keep tapping ash off as you would do with a cigarette. The higher quality the cigar, the more ash you can build up without it falling off! But don’t let it get too long as it can ruin the airflow.

Gently roll the cigar on the ashtray to break it off – don’t tap.

Closing Comments

And there you go: you now know how to enjoy a cigar, and you have the perfect cigar and whiskey combination to enjoy it with. Once you’ve spent an evening with a great bourbon and stogie… there’s no going back!

The post Drew Estate Liga Privada Unicos Feral Flying Pig and 1792 Port Finish Whiskey and Cigar Pairing appeared first on The Aspiring Gentleman.

There are some taste experiences that elevate themselves above simple foods and drinks. A good example is a coffee: this is a social event, it is a whole culture, and there is a whole lot to learn.

The same goes for smoking cigars and drinking whiskey. This is an experience and a life skill – not just a delicious and indulgent treat.

In this post, we’ll be looking at why whiskey and cigars are the perfect match, and more specifically why the Daniel Marshall Red Label and 1792 Sweet Wheat are a match made in heaven…

Why Cigars and Whiskey?

First, why enjoy a cigar and whiskey at the same time in the first place? The answer is that they can serve as the perfect complement to one another.

Both whiskey and cigars are things that you enjoy on a special occasion. They are luxuries and are a little more expensive and a little more refined than a glass of beer or a cigarette. That makes the things that you save for a special occasion. And it makes the things that you only share with people who are really important to you.

If your boss offers you a cigar, then you better accept it – as this is a great way to get closer and to really get to know the man or woman paying your wage! Likewise, if your partner’s father offers you a glass of whiskey – then it basically means you’ve been welcomed into the family!

You might receive a glass of whiskey for your 21^st birthday, or you might be given a cigar when you learn to drive or on your wedding day. These mark a special occasion.

And the reason for that is that they both force you to slow down and really appreciate them. You can’t smoke a cigar quickly, and if you ‘down’ whiskey, you’ll soon regret it.

At the same time, whiskey and cigars both complement each other perfectly in terms of the taste. These are both strong and complex flavors. They are both things that will sit in your mouth and in your stomach. They are warming, they are okay, they are smoky, and they are nutty. It’s just the same as the way that certain food-pairings work well together: like cheese and grapes. It just works.

But with all that being said, some whiskeys and some cigars are better matched than others. This article will break down an ideal combination.

The Whiskey: 1792 Sweet Wheat

First, let’s take a look at the whiskey that we’re going to be drinking.

Specifically, we’re talking about the brand 1792. This is a fantastic whiskey brand that has won a significant number of awards, and that is enjoyed by aficionados who really enjoy savoring and drinks and letting them linger.

The 1792 used to be known as the 1792 Ridgewood Reserve but has since simplified its name. That name is an homage to the year that Kentucky first became a state. As you might expect then, 1792 is located in the state, which is considered to be the real home of bourbon whiskey.

The brand is owned by the Barton 1792 Distillery, which in turn is part of the Sazerac Company. The company specializes in a number of small-batch whiskeys, typically aimed at a higher-end market as compared with the likes of Jack Daniels and others.

1792 has won countless awards for its quality and taste – and for good reason. This is a whiskey for people who really love whiskey.

As a bourbon, that means that 1792 makes dark and flavorsome whiskeys that come from the US only and that are only ever matured in brand new barrels. This is the best type of whiskey to match with a cigar – as the complex and spicy flavors will match perfectly.

1792 is a brand, however, meaning that it makes more than one type of whiskey. Specifically, it is the Sweet Wheat that we are recommending here. This is a bourbon that was made using delicate wheat as opposed to the usual rye. This provides a very smooth, very gentle flavor. Each sip will be drier and more fruity than the last, and this makes it a great whiskey for those that enjoy a sweeter flavor. As we’ll see in a moment, it is this flavor that makes the whiskey such as perfect match for the Red Label.

The Cigar: Daniel Marshall Red Label

As for the cigar, we’re going to be pairing here; we’re looking at the Daniel Marshall Red Label. This is a Nicaraguan super-premium which has a lot of positive hype surrounding it – and for good reason. It is held together by a five-year-old Nicaraguan Habano wrapper and has a very earthy core. Despite seeming quite dry at first though, that core is highlighted by notes of sweetness which come through. These will bring to mind espresso and cocoa. It’s very bold and very inviting, and it has a complex and interesting combination of flavors that is worthy of careful reflection.

And of course, it’s also that sweetness that will ideally match the sweetness that comes through in the Sweet Wheat.

A sweeter cigar and whiskey combo can be a wise choice for those that are starting out as it can be a little more welcoming than something that is very savory and very dry.

The Cigar is a medium-full strength and has Churchill 7 x 48 shape. It will only set you back $11 for a smoke! Churchills are often considered ‘serious’ cigars for those that know what they’re doing. At 7” long, they can last a good amount of time with the ring gauge of 47. They give off a thick and heavy smoke.

When choosing a cigar to enjoy, don’t make the mistake of thinking that the best cigar will be the most expensive one. Higher prices don’t always reflect the higher quality, and you likely won’t be able to distinguish the subtle tastes if you’re new to smoking anyway. Look for something mid-tier. This is a great place to start!

One useful tip though is to try feeling the cigar for hard or soft spots. A gentle roll between your fingers will tell you if the cigar has a firm and consistent texture and that in turn will give you a good indication as to whether it has been well made.

How to Enjoy Whiskey and Cigars

I talked in another post on how to enjoy a cigar the best way. So, to enjoy this combo, the remaining question is how to correctly appreciate that cold glass of whiskey. Here is what you need to know…

Firstly, it’s always a good idea to try different whiskeys. If you like American whiskey, then you have the choice of bourbon, rye, or Tennessee. Bourbon is made from at least 51% corn, while rye is made from 51% rye (no surprise!). Tennessee is filtered through charcoal. We recommend bourbon for enjoying with a cigar, hence the 1792. But do try a few to find that perfect flavor for you.

To properly enjoy whiskey, you need to drink from the right type of vessel. You can enjoy whiskey from a mug if you want… but for the ultimate experience then you need to drink from a glass – and ideally an old-fashioned or lowball glass. This is a short tumbler that holds about 6-10oz. You can also get whiskey glasses, which are tulip shaped to make it easier to ‘nose’ (smell) the whiskey. Or go retro and drink from a tin cup!

The big question, of course, is whether to drink your whiskey neat or to add ice or water (no, CocaCola is not an option here!). You should always experience the whiskey neat the first time around, as that is what it was designed for. But adding water or ice is a matter of preference. This will lower the ABV and is typically done for stronger whiskeys. Ice can take the punch off, but the most serious pros will decry it.

Finally, to drink your whiskey properly, always have a good sniff first. You can think of this as letting your nose ‘lead’ on the experience. This is a big part of where your taste comes from, and in this case, we really want to be guided by that scent. Now sip slowly and let the liquid roll around your mouth. Pick out the different flavors and really try to be present for the experience.

Oh, and one last tip: never dip your cigar in your drink!

Closing Comments

So, there you have it, another delicious combination to try out and some tips that will help you to get the very most from both your cigar and your whiskey. These are both fantastic experiences on their own. Put them together, and you have the perfect, classy way to spend an afternoon or evening. Enjoy and make sure to invite a good friend round to share the experience.

The post Daniel Marshall Red Label and 1792 Sweet Wheat appeared first on The Aspiring Gentleman.

Any foodie knows just how well the right wine pairing can compliment their dinner. This is especially true when it comes to cheese, but really any meal can be wonderfully enhanced by the right drink.

Well, it’s the exact same thing when it comes to cigars. And for cigars, only one drink will do whiskey.

If you’re someone who enjoys a good smoke and you haven’t tried pairing this with a glass of whiskey, then you’re only getting half the experience, even. And once you’ve tried this combination, you’re not going to want to go back! This is a drink for gentlemen and – like wine – it is a drink that can take a while to learn and understand. A true man’s man will know their whiskeys and their cigars and being able to make educated comments on them and recommend the best combinations… well, that’s a surefire way to impress everyone from business partners to friends, to future Fathers-in-law.

That said, this isn’t just an experience for men. Anyone can enjoy combining whiskey and cigars, so whoever you are: read on and learn more about this winning formula, and just what the best way to enjoy these two together really is.

Note: We’ll be focussing on bourbon, in particular, especially the 1792 brand. If you want to skip straight to the pairings to learn what goes best with the different products from this label, then head down to the bottom of the page and click the links. You’ll find pricing information, tips, and a whole lot more.

Your choice of tipple is about to get a whole lot classier!

Why Cigars and Whiskey Work

The first question is, what is it about cigars and whiskey that go so well in the first place?

There are a few things. On the face of it, both of these are strong flavors that are highly warming. A cigar will warm your mouth, while a whiskey creates a deep warmth in the stomach. Standing on a balcony or a roof bar and enjoying the two together is a great way to beat the elements and to feel cradled in a warm glow.

At the same time, both whiskey and cigars are designed to be enjoyed slowly. You can smoke a cigar for hours if you have the time, and likewise, you are never meant to gulp whiskey. Both are crafted with a lot of care, attention, and, and both deserve your time and appreciation.

Likewise, both these activities are esteemed. These are things you do to celebrate an important occasion. Both involve a lot of paraphernalia and the longer you take to enjoy their worlds, the more you will appreciate them both.

We all remember our first whiskey. And we likewise all remember our first cigar. Maybe you enjoyed a cigar with a colleague or boss to celebrate a deal with a client. Or perhaps you tried your first cigar with your Father when he decided you were old enough to have a few hairs on your chest (though do not make the common mistake of thinking these are male pastimes!). Similarly, whiskey is the kind of drink you offer to someone that you are welcoming to your family, or that you give as a wedding gift.

Both whiskey and cigars can come in a variety of flavors and blends. The precise experience is going to vary depending on the two you match together then, and of course, some go better than others. But when hearing the flavors of each described, you’ll find a lot of the same terminology used: they are spicy, they are oaky, they are smoky.

And so it is no surprise that they compliment each other well: bringing out the subtleties while at the same time, taking the ‘edge off’. It works for the same reason that dark chocolate and intense coffee work so well – they are both bitter, and thus they make each other taste that much sweeter.

Introducing: 1792

To really get this pairing right and to really appreciate the delicious taste and the enjoyable experience, you need to make sure you get the right whiskey, and you need to ensure you get the right cigar.

We’ll start with the whiskey. And in particular, we will be looking at the 1792 Bourbon – formerly Ridgewood Reserve 1792 and 1792 Ridgemont Reserve. This is a bourbon brand just like Jack Daniels – but it is one that carries with it a little more prestige and importance. It comes from Bardstown, Kentucky and is owned by the Barton 1792 Distillery, part of the Sazerac Company. It is part of a line of several ‘small batch’ bourbons, which are aimed at the higher end market (though not all 1792 whiskeys are small batch).

To classify as a Bourbon, a whiskey must come from the US and 95% comes from Kentucky. Ideally, you really want it to come from Kentucky. As you can see, the 1792 is steeped in the rich heritage of the region, making it all the more authentic and high quality. What’s more, is that the drink bears the label ‘Bottled in Bond’, meaning that it meets strict standards set by the 1897 act. The company has won countless awards and accolades and is well known for its general quality.

What makes this whiskey so prestigious and such a refined treat?

1792 is perhaps best known for its lines of small-batch whiskey; this means that the drink is created by mixing the contents of a small number of selected barrels. There aren’t strict criteria for what the terms specifically refers to, but generally, it means that the drink has been made from just a few barrels instead of a single barrel or thousands of barrels (the latter is the case in a drink like Jim Beam – usually a more mainstream bourbon). As a rule, small-batch whiskey tends to be higher-end.

1792 is 93.7 US proof, AKA 46.85% alcohol per volume (though again, other products from the brand do alter the strength). This makes it a very strong drink, that is ideal for enjoying in smaller quantities – a drink to sip!

The name of the bourbon has nothing to do with the year the drink was first introduced. Instead, this is a reference to the year that Kentucky was first considered a state.

What It’s Like

Depending on the product you choose, the precise nature of 1792 Bourbon is going to vary slightly. You will find that the Single Barrel is significantly different from the Small Batch for instance (in fact, Single Barrel can even differ quite a lot within that product line owing to its nature!).

That said, the classic Small Batch is the staple, and a lot of the other whiskeys from 1792 will follow the template to some degree. So for those that haven’t tried it yet, what should you expect?

To look at, this is a whiskey that has an intense caramel color. It looks rich and lively and is very inviting. If you give it a swirl, you’ll see tendrils stretch around the glass. This is a thick and somewhat sweet drink then.

In terms of the flavors you’re going to get: this is a fairly tannic and peppery drink, with a woody profile. You might notice a slight hint of maple in the taste too.

But remember: taste and particularly in regard to pairings is very much about the aromas. The nose on this drink then is a much sweeter experience and is rich with orange and spices (which is a clue as to the high rye content). You might also catch hints of that woodiness.

This helps to explain that delicious pairing. The woodiness helps to really compliment the cigar, while the sweetness will nicely contrast and cut through any dryness.

You’ll also notice from this drink an oaky finish which sits long on the tong. It’s drying and warm and coat the tongue.

How to Enjoy Whiskey and Cigars

So how do you go about pairing the right cigar and the right whiskey? How do you go about enjoying each to its fullest?

In terms of pairings, there are a few different things to consider.

For one, you should consider the length of the experience. These two luxuries work best together, and so you ideally want a longer drink for a longer cigar. Say you were to choose a cigar with a longer smoking time, such as the Ramon Allones Specially Selected. In this case, you might select a whiskey that can be enjoyed in larger quantities, such as the Redbeast.

Of course, there’s also the small matter of the taste – both the flavor itself and the strength of that flavor. As a rule, the aim is for whiskey and cigars that complement each other and are roughly ‘equally matched’. In other words, you don’t want to pair an incredibly strong whiskey with a mild cigar – or the cigar will be eaten alive! Try to make sure that this is an equal partnership, with both sides of the equation coming through equally.

So, if you were perhaps to choose a Romeo Y Julieta Petit Julietas (the cigar smoked by none other than Churchill himself), then you may want to pair that with something like the Bruichladdich. The Bruichladdich has many layers of flavor that are subtle and mild. The Petit Julietas is also a very mild flavor, and as such, the two will complement each other very nicely.

Of course, you may find that it takes a while before you can learn the subtle art of pairing whiskey and cigars. If you are new to both, then you should expect this to take time.

But what you can always do is to look for an exciting cigar or whiskey you want to smoke/drink, and then go from there by looking for ideas. Just do a quick Google search and look for ‘best whiskey to pair with X cigar’ or ‘best cigar to pair with X whiskey’. This will give you the thread you need to pull, and you’ll have lots of great combinations to try out with a friend. Just make sure it’s a good friend who deserves your fine cigars and high-end liquor!

Tip: Why not go the extra mile? You don’t need to stop at whiskey and cigars, you can also throw food pairings into the mix, and some of these can get quite creative. For instance, sticking a piece of bacon into a bourbon whiskey can be surprisingly delicious, and it’s also a great conversation starter. You can thank Tim Ferriss for that one!

Tip 2: Or if you want to be really adventurous, then you can try adding other drinks. I mentioned dark chocolate and coffee before, but you might be surprised to learn that coffee and cigars also go very nicely! Why not finish up the experience with a nice cup of Joe? Other popular options are craft beer and soda. Experiment and it will help to inform your palette, thereby helping you to make better choices and find better drinking and smoking experiences!

Bourbon vs Scotch for Cigars

One easy tip that you should have no problem committing to memory though is that bourbon is almost always superior to scotch when it comes to pairing with whiskey. You may prefer scotch, and there are the odd instances of scotch working very well with cigars, but for the most part, it’s always going to be bourbon that comes out on top.

Bourbon fits the tone and the feel of a cigar for starters. It’s brewed in the USA (ideally in Kentucky), and it’s 51% corn. It has a dry, earthy tone to it and it feels like you’re a part of the Wild West. It is somehow abrasive and harsh, but also sweet and intriguing.

But perhaps the most important distinction is that Bourbon needs to be aged in a new, charred oak barrel to count as real bourbon. Once it has been used once, that barrel is sent off for recycling – or perhaps to be used in some other part of the world. But that genuine 100% USA whiskey will always come from a fresh new barrel.

This is why you’ll find that a 15-year-old bourbon looks significantly darker than a scotch. It’s also the reason that bourbon has a much richer and bolder flavor (scotch is more generously described as ‘smooth’).

Now, of course, Scotch is the ‘original’ whiskey, and it is legendary in its own right. Scotch must be made in Scotland, it needs to be 80 proof, and it must be made from barley with no other added substances (except coloring). All scotch must be aged in oak casks for at least three years.

Now, many people will tell you that Scotch is the ideal whiskey to pair. In fact, this is vehemently argued by many people. It is the ‘original’ after all, and many people find that this makes it somehow more classy.

But the wild-West appeal of the Bourbon and the cigar won’t disappear. And not only that but those new barrels give a smoky feel that feels like the perfect match for a good cigar. The more inventive spices and flavors likewise give you many more flavor combinations to go with your new-fangled cigars. It’s classic, while at the same time giving you lots of amazing new things to try.

Do yourself a favor and just try it!

Some Great Pairings for 1792

We’ve talked about the 1792 and so that’s what we’re going to be focussing on here. This is a fantastic bourbon label that is made to an exceedingly high quality. It’s been around a long time, it’s authentic, and its great flavors and aromas are the perfect match for those cigars.

This is a great starting point, and from there, you can try out any of these pairings – try out the different whiskeys from the company and try them with these ideal cigar combos. Or click on the link to be taken to the page for more details.

Oliva Serie V Melanio W/ 1792 High Rye

This is a limited release cigar that is a ‘sequel’ of sorts to the Oliva Aos Serie V. It’s a cigar made from an Ecuadorian-grown Sumatra leaf. It is dark, thick and oily and it has notes of leather and coffee (also one to try with a mug of brew then!). It perfectly compliments the spicy, yet sweet complexity of the 1792 High Rye.

My Father Le Bijou 1922 W/ 1792 Small Batch

This is a medium to full strength cigar from Nicaragua that once again works perfectly with 1792 Small Batch. You should really notice the vanilla and caramel coming through during this combination, and the cigar itself is a peppery and full-bodied experience. This is an elegant and sophisticated combination, ideal for a special evening.

Padron 50^th Anniversary Limited Edition W/ 1792 Single Barrel

To go with a 1792 Single Barrel, the Padron is one of the best-known names in the entire cigar industry and with good reason. This 50^th Anniversary Limited Edition is a fitting homage to the company’s fame and prestige, and it is clear that a lot of thought and planning has gone into its sweet and tangy flavor. It has notes of maple syrup and orange citrus, which perfectly match the sweetness that can be found in any glass of 1792.

Fuente Fuente Opus X Lost City W/ 1792 Full Proof

For the 1792 Full Proof, we have for you the Fuente Fuente Opus X Lost City. It’s a romantic and thought-provoking title for a smoke, and the Lost City lives up to those notions. It is made with tobacco grown on the Fuente estate (hence the name), which must be aged for five years before production. It has an oily wrapper and Dominican filler which gives a rich and creamy smoke with earthy, cedar flavors and aromas.

This is a strong tasting cigar, and that makes it the perfect choice to go with the powerful 1792 Full proof.

Drew Estate Liga Privada Unicos Feral Flying Pig W/ 1792 Port Finish

As the name ‘flying pig’ might lead you to anticipate, this is a highly original and unique cigar – both in terms of its flavor and in terms of its shape. It is very similar to the Liga Privada No 9 and T-52, but this time blended with part Ligero leaf to provide that extra punch. It is a peppery smoking experience, with molasses and a bitter dark chocolate. It goes perfectly with the 1792 Port Finish, which is packed with dark, ripe fruits and candied-apple and vanilla.

Daniel Marshall Red Label W/ 1792 Sweet Wheat

Daniel Marshall Red Label is a Nicaraguan ‘super-premium’. This is fine smoking in all of its glory, and that includes everything from the Nicaraguan Habano wrapper to the earthy core (with notes of sweetness and espresso).

This is a very bold and inviting combination that is ideal when paired with a glass of 1792 Sweet Wheat. As this one is crafted with wheat instead of rye, it is somewhat different from the others on this list and marks more of a contrasting flavor.

Closing Comments

Hopefully, this post has inspired you to consider combining whiskey and cigars to get the very most from each. I hope you’re already picturing sitting in a leather armchair, sipping on a cold whiskey and taking long drags on a fat cigar.

Likewise, I hope that it has given you some ideas for starting points. The 1792 is a particularly excellent bourbon whiskey and trying out any of these combinations (click the links for more) is a guaranteed luxurious experience and fantastic learning opportunity.

Over time, you will start to discover what you like, and you can even start playing with some of the variables yourself. But start with these, and we can guarantee some excellent evenings and a gentle learning curve to get to grips with the wonderful world of cigar and whiskey pairings.

The post Why Cigars and Whiskey Are the Perfect Match Made in Heaven (And How to Pair Them) appeared first on The Aspiring Gentleman.

This is a guest post courtesy of Paul Agelidis, the Founder and Owner at Revolucion, a cigar, tobacco and men’s gift shop in beautiful Vancouver, BC.

If you are a cigar enthusiast, you’ve probably at least heard of the Dupont Le Grand LE lighters before. Odds are, you’ve not only heard of them but you sorely want one to add to your collection. Designed for cigar smokers, the Le Grand series have the look of the classic series of lighters by Dupont, but have added bells and whistles that make them even better. However, that also means that they cost more than the classic series. So, are the Le Grand lighters worth the money? Here’s our review.

Premium Cigar Lighters for Connoisseurs

First, let’s get the basic facts out of the way. The Le Grand series comes in three versions, or finishes, with prices ranging from $1,295 for the low end version, $1,495 for the middle, and $1,695 for the high end version. Each lighter is handcrafted in France with premium materials and special techniques to achieve the lacquering and guilloche appearances.

First is the “Grey” base version made from palladium, with an embossed texture in the natural palladium color. In the middle is the “Black” version, which is also made from palladium but has a smooth texture, with a black lacquer finish combined with natural palladium color mixed in. Lastly, there is the “Brown” version made from yellow gold with a bright gold finish. All three versions come in a gorgeous gift box, with the Brown version also coming with a numbered plaque to help make it look extra-special, as it deserves to be.

So the Dupont Le Grand are deluxe cigar lighters that use premium materials to look great and last forever, but it functions the same as the classic cigar lighter you want. It uses butane fuel with a guilloche roller to adjust the flame settings, and uses a traditional wheel to strike the flint for the basic soft flame. It is the other tricks the Le Grand lighter can do with its flame that helps set it further apart from other cigar lighters.

Twin Flame Technology

The signature feature of the Dupont Le Grand lighter is the “twin flame” technology it uses to provide extra flexibility to cigar smokers. It has the basic soft flint flame that you’d want to use in most circumstances to light your cigars normally. However, anyone who’s tried to light a cigar with a match or a soft flame while they’re outdoors on a windy day knows how frustrating it can be to keep a decent enough flame to light your cigar.

That’s why the Le Grand also has a button to turn your soft flame into a torch flame. After you spin the wheel to light the soft flame, you press the wheel up to activate the butane torch that stays lit easily in the wind. If you try and push the torch button before using the basic soft flame ignition it won’t work, and you’ll just be releasing fuel into the air — a handy safety feature to avoid accidentally activating the torch flame. The extra flexibility means you can use your Le Grand lighter anywhere.

Are They Worth the Money?

Premium materials and a handy extra flame setting so you can still use it on a windy day outside are great and all, but are the Dupont Le Grand lighters worth $1,300+?

In short, it depends — because there’s no getting around that price tag. If you just smoke cigars now and then, you probably only ever want to use matches or a lighter that costs a fraction of that price. However, if you’re a cigar enthusiast, connoisseur, and collector of higher-end cigars and accessories, this will be right up your alley. If you’re even thinking about buying one but want to know if it will hold up, you have our assurance that it is worth the cost.

In addition to the high quality materials and useful features, the Le Grand is also highly durable and will last a long time. The lacquer is highly resistant to damage caused by acids, impact, scratches, friction, liquids, and so on. It can be easily cleaned by the same products and procedures you would use on jewelry, glasses, and silver. They also come with a two year warranty from Dupont, as well as a special maintenance program to ensure they will last. Dupont also makes special replacement components for the flint and gas tubes, so you get the same flame performance every time.

The durability, premium materials, and exclusivity of the DuPont Le Grand lighters means that they will likely maintain a similar value to what they cost to buy now. In fact, with the Brown version being numbered and more rare, they might also increase in value as a special collector’s item over time.

About the Author:

Paul Agelidis has been the founder and owner of Revolucion, a Canadian cigar, tobacco and men’s gift shop in Vancouver, since 2005. For the last decade Paul has worked very hard to become an expert in tobacco products, men’s care, travel & accessories, body & bath, and gifts & home. Prior to 2005, from 1997 – 2005 Paul worked in the wholesale cigar industry and travelled to the annual cigar trade show (Habanos Festival every February). He loves to share his tips with others who are looking to achieve a complete lifestyle with the finer things in life.

Image credits; Image credits; Image credits

The post An Accessory Review: The Dupont Le Grand LE Lighter appeared first on The Aspiring Gentleman.

We all know of the delicious flavours that can be found online and in stores when it comes to searching for vaping liquids, but how can you truly get the most out of your flavours? Many people do not realise how well certain snacks can complement some of the most popular e-liquid flavours on the market, which is why we’re here to shine a light on how you can enjoy vaping unlike ever before. So, browse an e liquid UK range, choose your flavour, and take a look at our guide below to really tantalise your taste buds as you vape.

Danish Pastries

Whether you’re a morning vaper or you simply love to dive into a pastry at lunch time, you can be certain that you will be able to find a vape juice to really help you to make the most of your pastry snack. Pair your Danish pastry with an apple flavoured vape juice. We all know how amazing apple turnovers taste, but an apple vape juice paired with the taste of cinnamon or maple from your pastry will see your taste buds having a party in your mouth. Enjoy a medley of complex flavours, without having to suffer with dulling taste buds that regular cigarette smoking can cause.

Nuts

There are a great number of benefits to eating nuts, including the fact that they are packed with protein, as well as offering a number of essential fats and also high levels of fibre. Nuts are the ideal choice if you’re on a health kick or if you’re simply looking for a mix to chew on to get you through the day without suffering with those hunger pangs. But if you’re a nut eater, why not pair your delicious selection with a tobacco flavoured vape? You’ll find that you can bring out all of the elements of the tobacco flavour when you pair your vape juice with nuts of all kinds, as a result of their coating often being in a range of sweet or spicy options.

Ice-cream Or Brownies

Strawberry, vanilla and custard flavours are some of the most popular out of all of the e liquids that you can find on the market, but how can you truly get the most out of the flavour? By pairing it with something sweet of course! Those who love ice cream or chocolate brownies are certain to enjoy a tantalising taste when you pair this snack with a strawberry, vanilla or custard vape juice. Don’t forget that you can combine even more flavours by opting for a vanilla custard or strawberry custard vape juice!

Dark Chocolate

Cherry is one of the most versatile flavours that you can find when it comes to vape juice and is commonly paired with dark chocolate flavours to truly bring out the richness of the cherry. This is why you should ensure that you indulge in some delicious, high quality dark chocolates when it comes to vaping a cherry e liquid in order to truly make the most out of the taste.

Citrus Fruits

If you’re looking for something a little healthier than ice-cream, brownies or dark chocolate, then why not opt for some citrus fruits, or fruits like an apple that can give a zing to your vape juice. If you are opting for this, then pair your fruit of choice with banana or nut flavours, to truly bring out the mellow tastes. If you’re an early morning vapour, then this is the ideal choice for you to kickstart your day.

There are a great number of flavour combinations that you can choose from when it comes to vaping, allowing you to make the most out of your vaping experience. Pairing your e liquid with the perfect snack has never been easier.

Image credits: Image credits

The post 5 Of The Perfect Vaping Snacks appeared first on The Aspiring Gentleman.

The word “vintage” has a very special meaning in the modern gentleman’s dictionary.

Usually reserved to describe things of high quality produced in a certain era, the word has grown to attach itself to some of the highest forms of entertainment and lifestyle choices.  Sipping on glasses of the Macallan Masters Decanters Series of whisky and food pairings inside a garage full of “super cars” made for luxurious and appropriate backdrop for the evening in the post-hipster Wynwood arts and entertainment district.

Dressed in some of my finest threads, my suited Russian driver picked me up from my condo in Miami Beach courtesy of Macallan. Off we drove a short distance to the auto art gallery for the gourmet dining and whisky tasting experience.

Entering the venue both the other guests and myself were transported to one of the more impressive car collections as if straight out of a film like Kingsman: The Secret Service or any of the James Bond flicks. But really it’s the creation of Elo, the former face of Levis, Dr Martens, Kangol and other brands from the 1990’s.

The cars, the white tablecloth dining set up, and the various displays that showcased the Macallan Masters Decanters Series in all its glory, definitely were a sight to behold.

Prior to our formal dinner myself and other guests mingled while drinking the mixologist’s Miami Whisky Sour and Smoking Rosemary and Maple cocktails crafted from The Macallan rare Cask whisky. The conversation flowed easily as some of us admired a 1961 196 SP Ferrari, 1955 SL 300 Mercedes Gullwing, and 1958 450 S Maserati while enjoying a few Macallan cocktails.

Our host, a Scottish born but English raised Macallan expert, asked us to take our seats as she explained the ins and outs of how their sherry casks make Macallan whisky unique from other high end whiskey brands.

I was seated at a long banquet table covered in a quality white tablecloth with red sherry colored cloth napkins. Macallan clearly pays attention to the detail. I glanced over the Macallan whisky tasting menu in anticipation.

The single malt whiskeys offered throughout the dinner experience:

• The Rare Cask, which starts from the value of $300.
• The Reflexion, which starts from the value of $1,400.
• The No. 6, which starts from the value of $4,000.
• The M, which starts from the value $5,000 – is the showstopper of the Masters Series and considered the world’s most valuable whiskey.

Pata Negra Caviar, served with the Macallan Rare Cask.

Smoked Scallop Tartare and Beef Tartare, served with the Macallan Reflexion.

Vegan “Osso Buco”, served with the Macallan No. 6.

The Osso Buco comprised mostly of mushrooms, but tasted so magnificent that it would beat a Kobe steak any day. The serving of Macallan No. 6 only enhanced its taste – which, it is pretty safe to say, is the exact effect that the chefs were going for.

Venison Loin, served with the Macallan M.

Charlotte Reveal.

The Charlotte Reveal, on the other hand, came without a separate serving of luxury spirits.This was simply because it already had a very interesting “reveal” within. The dessert was a huge chocolate sphere with dry ice foaming beside it for the most visual experience. As a way to play with the senses as a gastronomic experience, the servers poured syrup onto the dish, which melted the chocolate shell and revealed a cake with a handful of Macallan whiskey soaked cherries.

The tasting menu was served in chronological order, and each of the whiskey pairing went beautifully with its corresponding dish. The vegan Osso Buco and Charlotte Reveal stole the culinary show but Macallan No. 6 and Macallan M were the stars.

Few things exude the sense of craftsmanship that is denoted to “vintage” than a certain sense of style, a collection of high end whiskey, or some sweet old school muscle cars. And when that combination of things is brought together, that’s just a rare evening.

As a red-blooded individual that values a rare cars, delicious gourmet offerings, and single malt whiskey; Macallan 1824 Masters Decanter Series exceeded expectations as our host led us to our final toast – slàinte.

The Macallan hosted me at this special whisky tasting event in Miami. All opinions are of Aspiring Gentleman only.

The post Macallan Masters Decanter Series Revisited appeared first on The Aspiring Gentleman.

It’s the weekend, which for some people means making a quick trip to the neighborhood liquor store to stock up for the upcoming festivities. When you get there, however, you’re greeted by the same selection. You don’t even bother looking at the bottom shelf full of 1.75 L plastic bottles because you’ve long since graduated from college. The middle row is tempting, but it’s the same options; mass-produced vodkas, whiskeys and rums that are available everywhere, and the top shelf is off-limits because it’s the end of the month and rent is due! You have a craving for something different. Something unique. But what else is there to do besides stick to your typical go-to bottle?

When we think of spirits chances are we think of the same popular brands owned by the same alcohol giants, but did you know that California alone has over 106 craft distilleries… and you’ve probably never heard of a fraction of their products. Now you’re curious about how to try them, right?

Enter Shots Box, founded by craft spirits lover and serial entrepreneur, JC Stock. Fed up with being forced to drink the same brands, he wanted a way to help craft distillers reach the masses. Through a monthly subscription box, fellow spirits lovers will receive ten unique craft spirits hailing from all over the country! How about a Tennessee whiskey or California vodka that’s not mass-produced to spice up that dinner cocktail?

In fact, not only does JC and Shots Box help introduce these mom-and-pop distillers to cocktail lovers, they also work with distillers to make sure the process of bottling, labeling, legal questions and more is as seamless as possible in order to secure a spot in the box.

Shots Box’s ultimate goal is to connect new brands to new individuals, get people to enjoy drinks that are other than “the usual,” and provide a simple, engaging way for distillers to get exposure and gather feedback from new customers. Effective marketing for craft distillers is becoming more and more difficult as craft distillers simply don’t have the budget that the major alcohol brands do. Additionally, these craft distillers who are investing in their product, and not marketing efforts, don’t have the time, resources or funds for “traditional” marketing efforts.

Traveling to travel to tasting rooms, trade shows, conferences and all of those “traditional” marketing opportunities can really add up and unfortunately can sometimes produce no ROI. Shots Box on the other hand can significantly cut down on these marketing costs. Aihui Ong, CEO of LoveWithFood.com and writer for Entrepreneur says that sampling can save you, “Approximately 80% off the cost of in-store demos.” Why? “Imagine eliminating travel, store set-up and staffing fees all in one fell swoop without sacrificing exposure.” Don’t get me wrong, Shots Box is not encouraging brands to cease their tasting room endeavors, they are simply showing brands that inclusion in a subscription box service can be a great opportunity to boost their brand in a way that a local tasting room cannot while also being extremely affordable. And for those craft distillers that don’t have a tasting room, Shots Box offers a “tasting room” that spans nationwide!

The benefits of sampling keep coming! Michelle Greenwald, CEO of Inventoursand writer for Forbes writes, “Sampling breaks through the clutter of all other marketing forms because it enables consumers to try brands risk free, in a way that couldn’t be easier for them to find or obtain. Other marketing forms … [require] consumers to take precious, time-consuming action to research or find the brand, when many other brands are making the same request of them.” Research has also shown that participating in a subscription box such as Shots Box could be the key to growing a craft spirits brand at a rate previously unimaginable. Why is Shots Box so beneficial? Here are just a few reasons:

• Subscription boxes allow consumers to try your product risk-free.
• Subscription boxes allow you to target a specific, but larger group of customers.
• Shots Box offers an ecommerce platform where customers can purchase full-sized bottles when they’re satisfied with the products included in their box.
• Subscription boxes provide a more affordable, more effective marketing technique.
• Shots Box will collect and share consumer feedback and data on your products regularly.

These sample sizes delivered straight to your door allow the subscriber to sample various gins, whiskeys, vodkas, rums and more without the risk of splurging on an entire bottle. Shots Box allows consumers to try a product risk-free, and these craft spirits are products that normally aren’t available to people around the country. These samples also get spirits lovers excited because every month they know they’re getting ten new craft spirits complete with recipe cards delivered directly to their door.

If a customer likes one, or all ten of the samples, they can simply log on to Shots Box’s website where all of the craft spirits are available for sale in the regular full-size bottle. Subscribers are also encouraged to leave a review so other craft spirits aficionados can be well-informed prior to making a purchasing decision. The reviews also show distillers what they are, and sometimes aren’t, doing right. It’s the ultimate focus group! Without Shots Box how else would a craft spirits lover know about, let alone try, that citrusy craft gin distilled in Florida when they live in Oregon? Now it’s their drink of choice and all of their friends are getting a bottle for the holidays!

Not only can you order a full-size bottle through the website, but If you live in Southern California you can pop in to their brand new brick-and-mortar craft spirits store in Orange County and purchase all of the full-size bottles that are available in the boxes! Don’t live in SoCal? Don’t worry. Shots Box plans to open more craft spirits stores across the country, further closing the gap between distillers and consumers.

As if you needed another reason to fall in love with Shots Box, did we mention that they’re all about giving back? Shots Box donates a percentage of their profits to non-profits who work towards providing access to clean drinking water to those who need it most. It’s called their “Bottle for Bottle” program (clever, right?). So every time you raise a glass of a craft Shots Box spirit, give a toast to yourself knowing that you’re helping to make a difference in someone’s life.

You can find out more info on Shots Box at their website, and be sure to follow them on Instagram (show the new account some love)! Apologies now to the local liquor store clerk because hopefully you’ll be seeing less and less of them.

About JC Stock, Co-Founder of Shots Box:

For as long as he can remember, JC Stock has been running a business. At the age of seven he worked at delivering newspapers, and at age nine he worked at mowing lawns. In 2006, he began his first national service company, and within five years had grown his business from a single employee to 10.  Today, JC owns and operates five companies which consist of over 30 employees and four locations from coast to coast.

Driven by success, a desire for growth, and the luxury of simplicity, he has been able to break the mold. When he isn’t working, he is playing. As a home brewer, he knows the pride and satisfaction an artisan gets when someone tries and enjoys one of his carefully crafted brews.

Image credits; Image credits; Image credits

The post What’s A Craft Spirits Lover To Do? appeared first on The Aspiring Gentleman.