A Better Black Friday

The day after Thanksgiving, while the family binged on football and computer games, I headed over to the cigar lounge for a relaxing smoke and beer. The newly expanded humidor and lounge at Olde Town Tobacconist (at the farm) was open and I was anxious to peruse the selection. (More on this in a future post.) 

I selected an Oliva Serie V Special V Figurado. The extensive Serie V line is one I've enjoyed frequently, but this doubly-named variety is one I've not had previously. The 6 x 60 figurado features a nipple foot and tapered head. The Habano Sun Grown wrapper is oily and smooth, with a rich chocolate color. The binder and fillers are Nicaraguan with Jalapa Valley Ligero tobacco in the mix. The tiny foot lit quickly and the burn evenly took hold. The flavor profile quickly progressed to a full-bodied blend of coffee, chocolate, and cedar. The smoke was thick and flavorful.

The accompanying beverage was 1781 Brewing Wilderness Porter. This is a new (I believe) porter version from the brewery. It's a full flavored beer with a dark chocolate, caramel, and nutty profile. I detected a hint of roasted mail and smoke. I'm a fan of the 1781 Washington's Hare Porter but this one takes the flavors up a notch and is quite tasty. It's truly a fitting cigar-pairing libation.

The Oliva cigar gave about a 90 minute smoke and offered the opportunity for a second mug of the porter. It was a satisfying pairing and made for an exceptionally enjoyable afternoon.