Pictures of the wealthy and prestigious puffing on a good stogie while swirling a glass of smooth brandy have been burned into the public’s consciousness through movies and TV, making cigars a luxury. If you would like to loosen up with a fine stogie and a fine beverage after work, and are doubtful of how to do it correctly, then here are a couple of helpful hints.

Traditionally, strong drinks such as brandy, whiskey, and rum have been associated with cigars. Some argue that a good cigar should always be paired with a strong drink that has a hint of sweetness. Indeed, cigar smokers have long enjoyed these popular pairings but for years, the idea of pairing cigars with beer has gone overlooked. Lately the trend of pairing cigars with a variety of beers has surfaced, and many people have found enjoyment in it. In fact, it seems that this democratization and popularization of cigars has entered the mainstream, and what better way to enjoy it then to pair if with a good fine beer?

However, let it be known that pairing a fine cigar with a fine beer is not easily accomplished, but is well worth the effort when done. Much of the pairing has to do with your experience level so if you are a novice, you will probably need help in pairing your specific cigar with an appropriate beer. For those of the more experienced palate, you probably know what you’re doing and can make the appropriate fusion of fine cigar with quality beer.

Due to the fact that cigars are very strong and flavorful, it is often a challenge to find a beer that complements the intensity of most cigars. Most cigars will pair nicely with a good barley wine or a single malt scotch. If your favorite cigar is described as spicy, woody, with a hint of cedar, try complementing it with a barley wine. The spicy flavor of your cigar should complement beautifully with the fruity hint of barley wine. The combination of a spicy cigar with a slightly fruity beer can create an overall creaminess that enhances the flavors of each significantly.

If you have no clue as to what flavor combinations might work, then why not experiment but first find a cigar that you enjoy. Find out which characteristics and flavors you enjoy most about the cigar, and then attempt to ‘match’ it with a brew that fits the bill. In this same way, some of the best complements of beer and cigar have been discovered.

Posted: December 1st, 2008 under food.
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