Best Drinks to Pair With Cigars: Whiskey, Coffee, and Beyond
There’s something special about slowing down, lighting up a good cigar, and pairing it with the right drink. Whether you’re a seasoned aficionado or someone just starting to explore cigars, the right pairing can elevate the entire experience. At The Cigar Store, we love helping smokers find combinations that bring out richer, smoother, and more memorable flavors.
Below are some of the best drinks to enjoy with your next smoke, with a strong focus on the classic favorite—cigar and whiskey pairings—along with a few great options you might not expect.
Whiskey and Cigars: A Classic Pairing
When people talk about cigar pairings, whiskey almost always comes first—and for good reason. Whiskey’s deep, warm notes blend beautifully with the natural richness of premium cigars. The key is matching strength with strength. A bold cigar needs a whiskey that can hold its own, while a mild stick pairs better with something smoother.
Great whiskey pairing ideas:
Full-bodied cigars + Barrel-proof bourbon
The caramel, spice, and charred oak flavors stand up perfectly to strong Maduro cigars.Medium-bodied cigars + Irish whiskey
Creamy, slightly sweet Irish whiskey creates a smooth, almost buttery pairing.Mild cigars + Speyside Scotch
Light floral and honey notes bring out subtle flavors in Connecticut-wrapped cigars.
If you’re new to cigar and whiskey pairings, start with a balanced medium cigar and a mid-tier bourbon. You’ll instantly understand why this combo has been celebrated for centuries.
Rum and Cigars: A Sweet and Smooth Experience
Rum often flies under the radar, but many cigar smokers swear by it. Aged rums have rich flavors like molasses, vanilla, and brown sugar that pair beautifully with medium and full-bodied smokes.
A dark, sweet rum can mellow out a stronger cigar, making it a relaxing and flavorful combination.
Coffee and Cigars: Morning to Night Enjoyment
Coffee might actually be the most universal cigar pairing of all. Whether it’s a strong espresso or a smooth latte, coffee enhances the natural earthiness and spice in many cigars.
If you enjoy a Connecticut in the morning or a Maduro at night, a well-brewed cup of coffee is a perfect companion.
Try pairing:
A creamy latte with a mild cigar
Black coffee with a rich, chocolatey Maduro
Espresso with a bold Nicaraguan cigar
Cognac, Brandy, and Other Fine Spirits
If you’re in the mood for something refined, cognac and brandy pair wonderfully with cigars. These spirits offer warmth and elegance, with notes of dried fruit and spice that complement many medium and full-bodied cigars.
They’re also smooth enough for beginners who want something flavorful but not overpowering.
Beer, Wine, and Unexpected Pairings
Not every great pairing has to be a spirit. Craft beers, especially darker styles like porters and stouts, bring roasted flavors that pair well with cigars.
Certain wines, like full-bodied reds with earthy tannins, can also surprise you with how well they match a smoke.
If you like exploring new flavor combinations, this is where you can really get creative.
Final Thoughts: Pair What You Love
At the end of the day, the best cigar pairing is whatever tastes right to you. Whiskey may be king, but coffee, rum, beer, and even wine can elevate your cigar in different ways.
Here at The Cigar Store, we’re always happy to help you find a cigar worth pairing with your favorite drink—or recommend a drink that brings the cigar to life.
If you’re looking for your next great smoke, visit us anytime at TheCigarStore.com and explore our full collection.