Cigar World’s Summer Cocktail & Cigar Pairing Guide

Hot summer nights call for cold drinks — and tasty cigars, of course. As we enter the dog days of summer, it’s a good time to rethink your cocktail game and try a new drink and cigar combo! Thankfully, we’ve got you covered on that front. Here are five excellent cigar and cocktail pairings for summer (and beyond). 

Weller by Cohiba + Weller Manhattan

If you haven’t indulged in one of the three Weller by Cohiba limited-edition releases from the past few years, do yourself a favor and pick up a box for a special occasion! The 2023 version features tobacco aged in Weller Bourbon barrels, which makes pairing it with a classic cocktail like a Manhattan (made with Weller, naturally) an easy and fantastic choice. 

La Gloria Cubana Classic + Dark ‘n’ Stormy

La Gloria Cubana has roots in both the Dominican Republic and Miami, so it’s no surprise that La Gloria Cubana Classic pairs wonderfully with a rich and sweet Dark ‘n’ Stormy. This is an excellent option for a quiet night on the porch or entertaining friends! 

Tatuaje Tuxtla + Tequila Smash 

Recent years have seen the expansion of San Andrés tobacco, and Tatuaje Tuxtla is a bold representation of what a cigar with a Mexican San Andrés wrapper can deliver. Its oaky and peppery flavor profile complements the sweet kick of a Tequila Smash magnificently.

H. Upmann The Banker + Sidecar

The Sidecar cocktail may not be as popular as it once was, but it’s a refined, citrusy drink that’s ideal for dinner parties — or for when you want to up the sophistication levels. Pairing it with a smoke from a legacy brand like H. Upmann, which has a history that stretches back to 1843, elevates the experience even further. 

Illusione Candela + Bloody Mary

Sometimes, the strangest couples make the best pairings. Such is the case with the Illusione Candela and the Bloody Mary! Illusione’s eye-catching green cigar features notes of green tea and grass, which balance the funky, spicy flavors you’ll find in most Bloody Marys. Give this combination a whirl when you want to “mix things up” — literally.

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