A Festive Afternoon: A Cigar, Bourbon, and the Winter Sun

On the second day of Christmas as the festivities continued, and I found myself running a number of errands to gather supplies for our celebrations and upcoming guests. As I hopped from stop to stop, I kept a close eye on the temperature reading on my car dashboard. Things were shaping up favorably for some deck time later in the day.

Upon returning home, my wife greeted me with a simple but persuasive observation: “It’s sunny outside. You should have a cigar now.” Though my preference is to enjoy a smoke and accompanying drink after dinner, the limited daylight this time of year often dictates otherwise. Besides, how could I argue with such wise advice from my lovely spouse?

A quick decision was made and I selected the festive looking A. J. Fernandez Dias de Gloria Brazil Robusto from the humidor. An equally prompt selection was grabbed from the whiskey shelf -- Blade & Bow Bourbon.

Having smoked a few of these over the past months, I knew I was in for a treat. The festive decorative bands seemed fitting for the season, and I was in the mood for a full-bodied smoke to accompany the sunny afternoon.

The 5.5x54 Robusto has a soft box-pressed shape. The fill is on the softer side but that did not affect the burn. Smoking time generally clocks in under an hour, making it an ideal choice for a midday session.

This cigar features a Brazilian Mata Fina Maduro wrapper, a Nicaraguan binder, and fillers from A.J. Fernandez’s own farms in Estelí, Nicaragua. As an extension of the popular Días de Gloria line, the Brazil variant brings its own unique flair.

The robust flavor profile offers a delightful mix of espresso, dark chocolate, and a subtle sweetness reminiscent of dark sugar. A touch of black pepper lingers in the background, adding a zesty kick without overpowering. By the final third, the peppery notes coated my lips and palate, leaving a lasting impression.

The Blade and Bow Bourbon is a great choice when looking for an easy, familiar sipper. It's also one that gets overlooked easily, mainly because the square, short bottle ends up hidden by larger bottles on my shelves.

The Stitzel-Weller Distillery uses what is known as a Solera Aging Process in the production of Blade and Bow. The Solera system is a fractional aging method that ensures a consistent flavor profile over time. Creating a link to history, newer bourbon is combined with some of the last remaining stocks of Stitzel-Weller bourbon. It is said each bottle will contain a touch of the historical bourbon -- if infinitely miniscule.

The 91% proof bourbon greets the nose with a sweet, fruity aroma. On the palate, well-balanced notes of caramel, white fruit, and a mild charred spice emerge. The finish is smooth, complementing the bold richness of the Días de Gloria Brazil without overshadowing it.

The bright winter sun provided a soothing warmth to my smoking and sipping time on the deck. Indeed, the need for supplemental heat was negated as I soaked in the remaining warming rays of the afternoon. With the rich boldness of the cigar and the comforting familiarity of the bourbon, I savored the moment of tranquility -- while it lasted.

 
Cheers!

Sipping with Purpose: Enjoying Alcohol Beyond the Drink

I ran across this quote from G. K. Chesterton recently and thought it especially fitting for this blog:

“It is quite a mistake to suppose that, when a man desires an alcoholic drink, he necessarily desires alcohol.”

— G.K. Chesterton, “Wine When it is Red” in All Things Considered 

This resonates with me, as I often find myself in discussions about the enjoyment of alcohol. I firmly believe that appreciating a well-crafted beer, whiskey, or cocktail is akin to savoring the skills of a chef in the kitchen. The artistry and craftsmanship behind a fine drink deserve the same respect as a gourmet meal.

In John-Mark L. Miravalle’s excellent book, "How to Feel Good and How Not To", the author explores this topic in depth, especially when contrasting the enjoyment of alcohol with drug use or abuse. He emphasizes that proper enjoyment of an alcoholic beverage should be seen through the lens of appreciating its flavors and the skill involved in its creation—whether by a chef, brewer, or distiller—or even as a gift from the ultimate Creator.

When approached with this mindset, drinking becomes an act of appreciation, much like enjoying a delicious meal. However, if the intent shifts to overindulgence or altering one’s state of mind, the context changes entirely. Miravalle is precise in emphasizing the importance of the consumer’s intent before taking that first sip or bite.

There is no denying that for some, overindulgence—whether in alcohol or food—can become a serious issue. In such cases, it’s crucial to provide support and encouragement for overcoming those challenges.

By maintaining a focus on moderation and appreciation, we can elevate the experience of enjoying both food and drink, celebrating the artistry behind them while avoiding misuse. 

Cheers!

A Festive Pairing: Rocky Patel Disciple and Old Elk Cigar Cut

Christmas Day was one of relaxation and simple pleasures. We began our celebrations on Christmas Eve by attending the Vigil Mass for the Nativity of the Lord, followed by a cozy evening with snacks and a few glasses of sherry. The chance to sleep in on Christmas morning is something I've come to enjoy later in life. Yet, I’ll admit I still miss those early mornings when our son was young, eager to unwrap presents and dive into the day.

By lunchtime, the promise of sunshine teased through the clouds, and I decided to indulge in one of my favorite traditions: enjoying an afternoon cigar on the deck.

For this year’s Christmas celebration, I selected a well-rested Rocky Patel Disciple from my humidor, the last of a purchase made in October 2023. It seemed the perfect moment to pair it with something equally special—my backup bottle of Old Elk Cigar Cut Bourbon. After all, it was a holiday!

The temperature outside hovered around 40°F—not too chilly but far from warm. I queued up some holiday-themed music on satellite radio, bundled up, and settled in for what promised to be an excellent pairing.

The Rocky Patel Disciple is a visually striking cigar. Its elaborate gold-and-black banding, along with the black sleeve covering much of the 6.5 x 52 Toro, made it feel appropriately festive. Once unwrapped, the very dark chocolate-hued San Andrés wrapper was revealed, shiny and marked with a few prominent veins.

Underneath the San Andrés wrapper lie Nicaraguan binder and filler tobaccos—a combination I often gravitate toward for its rich complexity. Despite the familiar recipe, the Disciple offered a unique smoking experience.

From the first draw, the cigar treated me to a satisfying palette of espresso, dark fruit, and cocoa, accented by black pepper and raisins. It was full-bodied, producing thick, aromatic clouds of smoke that I savored for nearly two hours.

The Old Elk Cigar Cut Bourbon is the first of several limited bourbons the Fort Collins, Colorado distiller produces designed to pair with a fine cigar. I truly enjoy it and was happy to find a bottle last summer during a trip to replace a bottle emptied earlier the year. Last spring the VA ABC stores put the bottle on a half price clearance sale -- an event I sadly missed. Old Elk has released other cigar-focused bourbons—the Cigar Cut Island Blend and Cigar Cut Punch Cut—but I’ve yet to explore those.

Cigar Cut is a masterful blend of bourbons finished in Sherry, Armagnac, Port, and Cognac casks. On the nose, it offers inviting aromas of caramel, vanilla, toasted oak, and spiced fruit. The palate reveals layers of dark chocolate, toffee, and baking spices, while subtle notes of tobacco and leather linger on the finish. As a fan of port- and sherry-finished bourbons with cigars, I found the additional influence of the other casks added depth and complexity. The resulting flavor profile paired beautifully with the full-bodied Rocky Patel Disciple, creating a harmonious and satisfying combination.

Halfway through my smoke, the sun finally emerged, bringing a bit of natural warmth to the chilly afternoon. I kept a patio heater on low but appreciated the brightness and extra comfort from the sun. The peacefulness of the moment—sipping bourbon, smoking a superb cigar, and enjoying the music—made for a most peaceful Christmas afternoon.

We rounded off the day by grilling steaks to accompany a holiday favorite: Oyster Casserole. For reasons I can’t explain, we only make this dish at Christmas, but perhaps that’s a tradition worth changing.

We enjoyed a very peaceful, relaxing, and joyful day. Things will get a bit more exciting this weekend when family and friends come by for more feasting and celebrating.

Cheers!

Merry Christmas

After a season of Advent filled with anticipation, the long-awaited day has arrived. Our LORD is born, and the world rejoices! Amid the turmoil and strife that seem ever-present in our world, the birth of Jesus shines as a beacon of hope, reminding us of the countless reasons we have to be thankful and full of hope.

When the angels went away from them to heaven,

the shepherds said to one another, 

“Let us go, then, to Bethlehem

to see this thing that has taken place, 

which the Lord has made known to us.”

So they went in haste and found Mary and Joseph, 

and the infant lying in the manger.

When they saw this,

they made known the message

that had been told them about this child.

All who heard it were amazed

by what had been told them by the shepherds.

And Mary kept all these things,

reflecting on them in her heart.

Then the shepherds returned,

glorifying and praising God 

for all they had heard and seen, 

just as it had been told to them.

-- Luke 2:15-20

The world often treats Christmas as starting the day after Thanksgiving and ending abruptly on December 26. In truth, the Christmas season begins today and continues until the Feast of the Epiphany on January 6. So let the celebrations continue as we honor the true “reason for the season” in all its glory.

However you choose to mark this sacred time, I wish you a joyous and peaceful holiday season, filled with the warmth of family, the company of friends, and the blessings of good cheer.

Merry Christmas!

Virginia Blues: Cigars, Spirits, and Winter’s Chill

Talk of the weather, especially when cold, often finds its way into these Musings—usually as an observation, though sometimes a gripe. Unfortunately when the cold turns extreme, many activities are curtailed, and there’s less musing to be done.

Looking at the upcoming week’s forecast, it doesn’t appear ideal for enjoying a smoke on the deck. Even with the two portable heaters at my feet and the infrared table lamp overhead, my tolerance for the cold wanes. Not entirely, just somewhat. If I’m honest, it’s often the thought of venturing into the chill that deters me more than the cold itself. Once settled, no matter the thermometer’s reading, it’s rarely unpleasant.

That does look cozy

“What about cigar lounges?” you might ask. Before my retirement, I frequented the Hogshead Cigar Lounge near my office, balancing work visits with a smoke nearby. These days, the idea of a 30-minute drive when I feel like lighting up holds less appeal.

The Olde Towne Tobacconist lounge at nearby 1781 Brewery was another favorite haunt, but it closed abruptly in May. While the brewery and winery remain cigar-friendly, the lack of a dedicated, heated lounge means my deck with heaters is often the more comfortable option. Still, I miss the camaraderie of fellow cigar enthusiasts who frequented the lounge.

Speaking of cigar lounges, Virginia isn’t particularly accommodating toward “cigar bars”—much like its restrictions on alcohol sales. Smoking a cigar inside a well-ventilated restaurant while enjoying a good drink or meal remains more of a dream than a reality. Under current Virginia law, establishments serving alcohol must derive at least 45% of their revenue from food sales. Maybe that will change some day. Technically, there are no “bars” in Virginia, only restaurants with alcohol on the menu. 

The situation becomes even more prohibitive for businesses seeking to allow indoor smoking while serving alcohol. Adding to the complexity, smoking sections in food establishments must be entirely separated from non-smoking areas, with dedicated rooms, separate entrances, and unconnected ventilation systems. Moreover, also providing a non-smoking section is mandatory, effectively barring a cigar-friendly restaurant catering exclusively to smokers. Non-smokers must have a choice, while smokers do not—a disparity that feels inequitable. A tobacconist once lamented to me that they'd love to open a proper cigar bar, but they did not want to manage a full (non-smoking) restaurant in order to do so. 

In short, to serve alcohol, you must serve food. If you serve food, you cannot allow smoking without prohibitive restrictions. Ergo, no cigar bars. A loss particularly felt during the winter months.

A restaurant may choose to allow smoking in outdoor seating areas, but only "at such times when such outdoor area is not enclosed in whole or in part by any screened walls, roll-up doors, windows or other seasonal or temporary enclosures." (Code of Virginia § 15.2-2825)

Of course, I still enjoy fine whiskeys and beers indoors during the colder months, and musings on those pairings will occasionally appear. However, my focus tends to center on the interplay between the smoke and the sip, so those lone pours don't often get mentioned.

Lastly, there’s been a lamentable lack of range time this year—none, to be exact. Structural anomalies in my spine have kept me sidelined. I am still hoping that by the spring shooting season, those "barrel" stories might make a reemergence here. At least now that it’s winter, I wouldn’t be shooting outdoors anyway — a minor condolence. 

So there's the situation. All that said, it's time to fire up the heaters.

Cheers!

Crowned Heads and Heaven Hill: A Celebration of Craft and Flavor

A cool Friday evening on the deck called for a robust cigar and bourbon pairing. I started the night with a small pour of Heaven Hill Grain to Glass Kentucky Straight Wheated Bourbon Whiskey, a bottle I’d picked up in Knoxville a couple of weeks ago. I’d been eager to try it, saving it for just the right relaxing evening.

The Heaven Hill Grain to Glass Wheated Bourbon is a distinctive release, crafted to emphasize transparency and showcase the artistry behind its production. Even the corn seed used in the mash bill was specifically selected for this bottling. With a mash bill of 52% corn, 35% wheat, and 13% malted barley, this bourbon leans heavier on wheat than most. Aged for six years and bottled at a bold 121 proof, it promised a memorable experience—and it delivered.

From the Glencairn Glass, enticing aromas of vanilla, oak, and white fruit wafted up, mingling with what I could only describe as gingerbread cookie dough—a seasonal suggestion, perhaps? A deep inhale delivered a gentle alcohol warmth to the nose. The first sip of the amber liquid opened with robust flavors of vanilla, oak, and nuts, followed by layers of molasses, apple, and pear. The finish was equally satisfying, with a pepper-tinged sweetness that lingered pleasantly on the palate.

After savoring the bourbon, I reached for the Crowned Heads Belgian Blue LE, a new release I’d been itching to try. It had been resting in my humidor for about five weeks, as I waited for the right pairing inspiration. Crowned Heads is among my favorite cigar brands, and the Belgian Blue didn’t disappoint.

This limited-edition cigar is truly special—only 2,000 boxes of 12 were produced. The 6x54 box-pressed Toro features a Mexican San Andrés Maduro wrapper over an Ecuadorian binder, with an intriguing filler blend of Nicaraguan and Dominican tobaccos. Impressively, 75% of the filler is comprised of ligero leaves, the strongest part of the tobacco plant, lending the cigar its bold character. It’s aptly named after a breed of Belgian cattle known for their strength and sculpted muscularity.

The Belgian Blue hit all the right notes. It opened with a pleasant peppery kick that quickly gave way to a medley of caramel, roasted nuts, and oak. Despite being full-bodied, it delivered a smooth, creamy smoke with no harshness. The cigar burned evenly and slowly, offering a delightful 1-hour-and-50-minute experience.

Perhaps it was the setting—a clear night sky, a whisper of warmth from the deck heater, and the stillness of the evening—but the pairing of Heaven Hill Grain to Glass Wheated Bourbon and Crowned Heads Belgian Blue was remarkable. The richness of the bourbon beautifully complemented the cigar’s full-bodied complexity.

So enjoyable was the pairing that I immediately ordered more of the Belgian Blue cigars while they were still available. As for the bourbon, it’s an allocated release in Virginia, but I’ll keep an eye out for another bottle. The non-wheated Heaven Hill Grain to Glass expression remains on my wish list, too.

While I rarely purposefully repeat pairings, this one is worthy of an encore. That said, the Heaven Hill Wheated Bourbon undoubtedly has other cigars waiting to complement its unique profile, just as the Belgian Blue will pair beautifully with other fine bourbons. Exploring those possibilities will be a journey I’ll savor.

Cheers!

A Refresh for Musings Over a Barrel: New Look, Same Spirit

I’ve been gradually updating and tweaking Musings Over a Barrel over the past couple of weeks. The colder weather has meant more time spent indoors, perfect for refining this space. However, within the limitations of the Blogger platform, there’s only so much I can do—after all, you get what you pay for. If you’re reading on a mobile device, you may not notice the design changes as much. Curious? Scroll to the bottom of your phone screen and click “View web version,” but be ready to squint a bit.

In addition to refreshing the look, I’ve focused on updating the link compilation pages in the sidebar. While reviewing the blogs and sites I link to, it’s clear that fewer people are blogging these days. Many of the links I’d previously shared are inactive or gone. Platforms like YouTube and Rumble seem to have taken over. (And let’s not even start on the mind-numbing content on China's TikTok.)

Back in the early blogging days, reciprocal link networks were all the rage. Content creators worked to build communities by sharing links. These days, bloggers seem to prefer a more insular approach, often limiting links to paying sponsors. Personally, I enjoy sharing interesting sites I frequent—no strings attached—for the enlightenment of my readers.

For those of us feeling “old school,” RSS feeds are still around. I rely on an RSS reader daily to browse through roughly 100 feeds that interest me. If you’re similarly inclined, you can subscribe to an RSS feed of Musings Over a Barrel via the sidebar. Sadly, Google has done away with the subscribe-by-email functionality.

Speaking of sponsors, this blog remains a hobby, not a source of income. While I occasionally review products, I only do so if they genuinely interest me and might appeal to my readers. At times, I’ll use an Amazon or other sponsored link to offset minor costs—Blogger might be free, but domain registrations and related services are not.

Lastly, photo sharing on Instagram has become quite popular among cigar and whiskey enthusiasts. My Instagram account gets frequent, in-the-moment updates. If photos of cigars, whiskey, and craft beer pique your interest, I invite you to check it out!

Cheers!

Whiskey History in the Making: American Single Malt Defined

Credit: ASMWC

The term American Single Malt Whiskey has been tossed around in marketing for quite some time. Like many whiskey descriptions, it often carried no standardized meaning. That’s no longer the case. After years of lobbying, the American Single Malt Whiskey Commission has successfully established an official definition for this category.

For the first time in over 52 years the U.S.  Government is adding a new Type of whiskey to its regulations: American Single Malt Whiskey. On December 18th, 2024 TTB officially added the new Standard of Identity to Part 5 of the Code of Federal Regulations with an effective date of January 19th, 2025 that clearly defines the category and protects its producers and their products.

Just as the legal definition of Bourbon whiskey has long been codified, the term American Single Malt now has its own set of rules. To qualify as an American Single Malt Whiskey, a product must meet the following criteria:

• Made From 100% Malted Barley
• Distilled Entirely At One Distillery
• Mashed, Distilled And Matured In The United States Of America
• Matured In Oak Casks Of A Capacity Not Exceeding 700 Liters
• Distilled To No More Than 160 (U.S.) Proof (80% Alcohol By Volume)
• Bottled At 80 (U.S.) Proof Or More (40% Alcohol By Volume)

To date, I’ve only sampled a handful of American Single Malts. During the process of defining this new category, many producers provided input, often shaped by their own production preferences. It will be fascinating to see – and taste – the innovation and growth that emerges in this space as a result of the ruling.

You can find the official regulation on the Federal Register. I’ll be keeping an eye on new developments and look forward to sharing my experiences with this evolving category of whiskey.

Cheers!

Sipping and Smoking: The Buffalo Trace Edition

Last July, while passing through Kentucky, I picked up some Buffalo Trace cigars during a visit to the distillery. I had heard of the co-branded cigars before but wasn’t particularly familiar with the blend. Given their display in several cabinets at the gift shop, I wasn’t entirely confident in how well they had been stored. Not all the cigars looked pristine, so I selected a couple of the best-looking ones to bring home. Since then, they’ve been resting in my humidor. On a relatively warm evening this week, I decided it was time to light one up—with a pour of Buffalo Trace Bourbon, of course.

Buffalo Trace Cigars are produced by General Cigar in the Dominican Republic, designed to complement and be enjoyed with the bourbon of the same name. The blend features an Ecuadorian Sumatra wrapper covering a Brazilian Arapiraca binder, with barrel-aged Piloto Cubano and Nicaraguan tobaccos making up the filler. I chose the 5x49 Robusto vitola for my purchase.

The cigar had an attractive oily sheen on its wrapper and felt densely packed. However, the draw was initially too tight, requiring two deep insertions with my trusty PerfecDraw tool. (In over two years of owning the PerfecDraw, I can count on one hand the number of times I’ve needed it, but every time, I’ve been grateful to have it.)

Once lit, the Buffalo Trace cigar proved more flavorful than I expected. I believe the Brazilian Arapiraca binder contributes a rich earthy sweetness, with notes of licorice and nutty caramel. There’s also a spicy cedar element that lingers pleasantly on the finish and leaves a slight tingle on the lips.

The first couple of inches burned unevenly, which prompted my OCD to step in for frequent touch-ups. Fortunately, after some attention, the cigar eventually settled into a sharp, slow burn, providing a satisfying 70-minute smoking time.

I paired the cigar with a pour of Buffalo Trace Bourbon, served in the heavy rocks glass I had also picked up at the distillery. At 90 proof, this bourbon delivers classic notes of toffee, dark fruit, and oak, with lingering hints of vanilla and cinnamon on the finish.

While the pairing was enjoyable, I wouldn’t say it was especially unique compared to other good cigar-and-bourbon combinations. Like the bourbon itself, the cigar offers a pleasant and approachable flavor profile that’s easy to enjoy without much fuss.

I’m looking forward to trying the other Buffalo Trace cigar I have on hand. Next time, I might pair it with a more robustly flavored bourbon, perhaps another from the same distillery, to see how well the cigar holds its own. Overall, the Buffalo Trace cigar delivers a flavorful and satisfying smoking experience—one that matches the spirit of its namesake bourbon, even if it doesn’t surpass other tried-and-true pairings.

Cheers!

A Seasonal Classic: Sierra Nevada Celebration and a Hearty Lunch

One of the highlights of the winter beer season for me has long been the return of Sierra Nevada Celebration Fresh Hop IPA. Although my first pour of Celebration came later than usual this year, it was certainly worth the wait—better late than never!

We stopped for lunch at a favorite local pub on Saturday, and I was thrilled to spot Celebration IPA on the rotating draft list. My decision was immediate; I didn’t even glance at the rest of the menu. In years past, we’ve typically stocked up on a six-pack—or even a case—of this seasonal gem by now. However, I hadn’t noticed it on store shelves yet this season (though I admit I hadn’t been looking too closely).

Sierra Nevada Celebration IPA is brewed with freshly harvested hops, including Cascade, Centennial, and Chinook varieties, which are added shortly after harvest to lock in their vibrant flavors. In the glass, it glows with a vibrant amber-orange hue and a thin white head. Aromas of fresh pine and citrus leap from the glass, setting the stage for a bold flavor profile. Each sip delivers a symphony of hop bitterness, citrus zest, pine resin, and a sturdy malt backbone that provides just the right touch of sweetness for balance. This bright and refreshing combination delights from start to finish.

The flavorful ale made a superb pairing with the Bourbon Peppercorn Burger I had for lunch. The char-grilled patty was topped with Swiss cheese, caramelized onions, arugula, bacon, garlic aioli, and a house-made bourbon peppercorn sauce. It was messy, indulgent, and absolutely delicious—a perfect match for Celebration IPA’s bold and crisp profile.

Winter seasonal beer releases often lean toward dark, roasted flavors with notes of coffee, caramel, and higher alcohol content. While I enjoy those profiles as well, Celebration IPA stands apart with its bright, hoppy focus. Dating back to 1981, Celebration IPA is considered one of the earliest examples of an American-style IPA to incorporate fresh hops, making it an iconic and eagerly anticipated seasonal offering each year.

Cheers!

Hamlet Tabaquero and Knob Creek Rye: A Flavorful Winter Escape

For Friday evening’s deck time, I had my cigar picked out early in the day, but when it came time to choose a drink pairing, I was torn. On a whim, I reached for the Hamlet Tabaquero Toro and serendipitously paired it with the Knob Creek Single Barrel Select Rye. With those decisions made, I bundled up, lit the heaters, and stepped outside to enjoy the evening.

The Tabaquero line, created by renowned Cuban roller Hamlet Paredes in collaboration with Rocky Patel, has been a staple in my humidor. Back in 2022, when I learned that Hamlet Paredes was leaving Rocky Patel and the Tabaquero was being discontinued, I acted quickly and secured a box online. Two years later, I’ve smoked through half the box, and the cigar remains a favorite.

This cigar boasts a San Andrés wrapper, a blend of Nicaraguan fillers, and dual binders of San Andrés and Brazilian Mata Fina. Measuring 6x52, it’s smoothly rolled, dense, and rich in flavor. From the first draw, it delivers a creamy sweetness complemented by notes of milk chocolate, cedar, earth, and oak. While earlier sticks from this box had burn issues requiring frequent touchups (leading to some bitterness), two years of aging have transformed it into a balanced and full-bodied experience.

The Knob Creek Single Barrel Select Rye was a Virginia ABC pick from summer 2023. This barrel was filled on June 12, 2016, giving it a robust 6.5-year age. With a mash bill of 55% rye, 35% corn, and 10% malted barley, and bottled at a hearty 115 proof, it’s an ideal companion for a cold evening and a bold cigar.

From the rocks glass, the aroma is mild, offering hints of cocoa, vanilla, citrus, and rye spice. On the palate, it opens with flavors of butterscotch, cocoa, and dark fruit, layered with nuts and an assertive rye spiciness that lingers on the tongue. Despite its high proof and bold spice, the drink is exceptionally well-balanced and surprisingly easy to sip.

The Hamlet Tabaquero paired beautifully with the Knob Creek Rye, the boldness of the cigar harmonizing with the robust, spicy sweetness of the whiskey. Interestingly, as I was reflecting on this pairing, I discovered an earlier blog entry noting that I had enjoyed this exact combination back in March. Even subconsciously, I must have remembered how perfect this pairing is.

Cheers!

A Winter Evening Pairing: Bold Cigar Meets Mild Bourbon

As winter approaches, the opportunities to enjoy a cigar grow fewer. This week brought slightly warmer temperatures, but they were accompanied by rain and wind. Still, after a hearty chicken chili dinner, I decided to brave the elements for a cigar on the screened porch. With fresh propane canisters installed on the heater emptied last week, and joked to my wife that the other heater would probably run out as soon as I got settled.

As I was making room my my shelves for the bottles picked up over the weekend, I spotted the Basil Hayden Toast, a bottle I had not explored in some time, so decided to make it one half of the evening's pairing.

For a shorter session, I chose the Black Label Trading Company Coffin Nails Petit Corona. This 5x40 cigar is wrapped in an Ecuadorian Habano Maduro leaf, with a Honduran binder and fillers from Honduras and Nicaragua. It’s a striking little cigar, its dark, oily wrapper hinting at bold flavors to come. The dense construction made for a tight draw at first, but a quick adjustment with my PerfecDraw tool solved the issue.

The name “Coffin Nails” is intriguing. To me, it feels like a cheeky nod to those who might seek to curb our smoking freedoms. More likely, it’s simply a play on the cigar’s compact size and shape. Regardless, this cigar is unapologetically full-bodied. Bold spiciness dominates, layered over dark fruit notes. Yet, for all its strength, the smoke remains balanced, with a sweet, creamy undertone that ties everything together beautifully.

On the other hand, Basil Hayden Toast offers a stark contrast. At just 80 proof, it’s lighter than my usual preference of 90 or even 100 proof. The nose is subtle, with faint notes of caramel and oak. On the palate, delicate flavors of toffee and caramel blend with cinnamon and brown sugar. Despite the pairing’s contrasting intensities, I found the combination surprisingly harmonious.

The short 40-minute smoke ended just as predicted: with the propane tank on the second heater running dry. The steady wind made the temperature drop more noticeable, but fortunately, the cigar was nearly done, and I didn’t have to cut it short. At least now I know both heaters will be fully prepped for the next outing.

Cheers!

Basketball, Bourbon, and Family Make For An Enjoyable Trip

We enjoyed a fun and quick trip last week to visit family in Atlanta. The adventure began with an overnight stay in Blacksburg to attend a Virginia Tech basketball game. Despite the home team’s recent struggles, the games are always a good time, win or lose.

After the late night game, we got off to an early start and headed on towards Atlanta the next morning. Passing through Knoxville, TN, we stopped for lunch at Smoky Mountain Brewery. I enjoyed a Cherokee Red Ale alongside shareable plates of nachos and roasted chicken quesadillas. The Red Ale was delightful, with flavors of toasted bread, toffee, and malt. I tend to gravitate toward Red or Irish ales when exploring new breweries, and this one didn’t disappoint. With many miles still ahead, I reluctantly refrained from sampling more of the brewery's beers.

Leaving the brewery, I noticed a Total Wine nearby and couldn’t resist a bit of bourbon hunting. Virginia’s state-controlled liquor sales often limit the options, so this was an exciting opportunity. I tried to exercise restraint but still managed to check off several bottles from my wishlist.

• Pikesville Rye: A replacement for a recently emptied favorite.

• Redwood Empire Lost Monarch, Knob Creek Bourbon x Rye, and Heaven Hill Grain to Glass Wheated: All three are difficult to find or allocated at home.

• Chattanooga Single Barrel: A local bottle recommended by other whiskey enthusiasts in the aisle.

• High West Double Rye!: Pictured but not purchased with the others, this one came later as a thoughtful gift from family (and yes, it was opened during the visit).

I’m looking forward to trying these new-to-me whiskies!

Although I don’t drink much Scotch these days, I still enjoy it on occasion. Most of the Scotch in my collection has been gifted by friends, and I’ve worked through most of it. I should probably add a few new bottles to my selection at some point. My brother-in-law recently received a bottle of Macallan Scotch as a gift and kindly shared it during dinner. 

The Macallan A Night on Earth - The Journey is a holiday release from the Speyside, Scotland distillery. Presented in a beautifully designed box by artist Nini Sum, this single malt was crafted using first-fill American ex-bourbon barrels and both European and American sherry-seasoned oak casks.

At 43% ABV, it’s a mild Scotch, both in aroma and taste. Notes of oak, vanilla, and fruit dominate the nose and the flavor. There's a creamy texture on the palate. The packaging blurb mentions coconut, which I detected only after careful consideration—perhaps the power of suggestion. Overall, it’s an approachable Scotch, suitable for those less accustomed to robust profiles, though its higher price point may be a consideration. The packaging certainly adds to its charm, and the selling price undoubtably.

Later that evening, we opened the bottle of High West Double Rye!. My wife enjoys a Rye Old Fashioned, so I made one using the Double Rye! and the ingredients we had on hand (sadly, no Luxardo cherries). Afterward, I enjoyed the rye neat.

High West Double Rye! (the distillery adds the exclamation point) is a 92 proof rye made from a blend of two straight rye whiskeys — a 95% rye, 5% barley malt rye from MGP, and a 80% rye, 20% malted rye from High West Distillery. This bottle is labeled Batch 21B02. 

The aroma has clove and mint, along with mild vanilla. The rye aspect is not strong in the nose. In the mouth, the rye spice becomes more apparent, along with cinnamon, vanilla, and a touch of honey. The finish is clean and short lived. High West Double Rye! is a pleasant rye with a low proof point. And if I do say so myself, makes a decent Old Fashioned. 

While I packed cigars for the trip, a busy schedule and unusually cool Atlanta weather left little time to enjoy them. Instead, I made up for it with plenty of delicious food and drink.

After all the indulgence, some physical activity was essential. One afternoon, we took a beautiful sunset walk along the Chattahoochee River.

All in all, it was a fantastic mini-vacation filled with family, friends, and copious amounts of delicious food and drink. Now, I’m eager to pair my new whiskies with a good cigar in the weeks to come.

Cheers!

Battling the Cold with Bourbon, Heaters, and a Fine Cigar

After a weekend away, one without any time to enjoy a cigar, I was eager to unwind with a relaxing smoke. Mid-week temperatures remained unseasonably cold, but as I convinced myself, it was “above freezing.”

Bundled in a thick leather jacket, I prepared my setup on the deck. I fired up the two portable propane heaters and turned on the infrared tabletop heat lamp, which I had brought back outside earlier in the week. With everything ready, it was time for a quick smoke.

I chose a Perdomo Reserve 10th Anniversary Sun Grown Robusto and paired it with J. H. Bards Skipper’s Select Toasted Barrel Bourbon. Settling in, I watched the sun set on the brisk evening.

The new release from J. H. Bards Spirits, based in Blacksburg, VA, honors Skipper, the iconic cannon fired by the Virginia Tech Corps of Cadets whenever the Hokies score a touchdown in Lane Stadium. Proceeds from the bourbon support the Triumph NIL fund for VT athletes.

The toasted barrel bourbon gives off the classic aromas of caramel and vanilla, enhanced by a mild char. A sip revealed smooth fruit and sweet caramel notes, with a pleasant wood-char finish. Though the finish was short-lived, the bourbon was a very enjoyable sipper at a mild 93 proof.

The flavors of the Perdomo Reserve 10th Anniversary Sun Grown complemented the bourbon wonderfully. The 5 x 54 Robusto features a milk-chocolate-hued Nicaraguan Sun Grown wrapper atop Nicaraguan binder and filler tobaccos. These wrapper leaves were aged for six years and then spent an additional 10 months aging in used bourbon barrels, making it a great cigar to enjoy with a mild bourbon.

The cigar began with notes of sweet caramel and cedar, which gradually evolved into rich flavors of molasses, caramel, and coffee. A touch of mild black pepper joined the profile, adding a bit of complexity. This particular stick was from a purchase made in late September, and it was the first of that batch I’d smoked. Despite the cold air, the cigar burned well, though it did develop a small crack about halfway through. Fortunately, the burn remained unaffected.

As I approached the final quarter of the cigar, one of the heaters ran out of fuel, and the chill became more noticeable. Normally, I’d swap out the tank and keep going, but the bitter temperature made the decision to call it an early night easier.

Even with the shortened session, it was a pleasant escape.

Cheers!