Cigarillos
How to Pair a Cigar With a Drink
Cigarillos are small, sweet tobacco smokes. They are often used as after-dinner smokes, or in lieu of dessert. Some of the most renowned cigarillo brands have their own line of smokes, like Swisher Sweets or White Owl cigarillos.
The process of manufacturing is identical across all brands. Tobacco leaves are delivered to warehouses where they are then "thrashed" or mechanically beat to get rid of stems and veins.
What is a cigarillos?
They are miniature, small cigars, which are roughly as big as a typical cigarettes. They range in length between 3 and 5 inches and have rings that have gauges of 20-30.
All Cigarillo brands were almost exclusively hand-crafted European product up until the 1950s when regulations relaxed and process become automated.
Cigarillos are perferct for anyone who would like to smoke but doesn't have time to enjoy a long smoke. They are also popular with young people who want to start smoking cigars but prefer a smaller and lighter smoke.
What is the best pairing for the cigarillo?
Pairing a drink with a similar flavored cigarillos is very important. A quality cigar can impart strong aromas to your palate and tongue So it's essential to match it with a beverage that complements and balances the smoky flavors.
Whiskey is an excellent choice because it is a great match with virtually any cigar. If you like one malt single from Scotland or Bourbon from Kentucky, the rich flavor of both will enhance the tobacco and leather flavors of the Cuban cigar.
A robust cigar is great to drink with a strong spirit like cognac or brandy. The coffee, toasted nuts and chocolate flavors from a Davidoff Yamasa may complement the fruity, rich spice of the Remy Martin XO.
What is the best way to cut the cigarillo?
There are many methods to cut a cigar by using cutting tools, scissors, or by biting. When cutting with a cutter it is crucial to remember that you must cut just below the cap line but over the shoulder. This will stop the cigar from tearing and result in a smooth, clean smoke.
If you don't own a cutter, make use of your fingernail to puncture the cap or top of the cigar, and make the punch cut. You can simply cut the tobacco in a circular fashion until you've created a hole.
Cigar scissors are a great alternative to cut a cigar. They function similar to double-blade guillotines, creating an opening that is straight and large that allows you to draw. Be sure to place the scissors in the right order and to not cut too deep otherwise you could end up tearing the wrapper of a cigar.