Cigars… they are one of the best ways to enjoy a nice glass of bourbon. The flavors and aromas all become enhanced into a better overall experience. We talked about cigars and bourbon back on episode 129 with Jeremy and Jake from Jake’s Cigar Lounge, but this time we’re joined by Ibis Lu. She’s a Cigar Sommelier and Certified Bourbon Steward, but also operates the Instagram account @Cigarlover12. She’s probably been smoking cigars for longer than me and you combined. We talk about aging cigars, fake cubans, and the overhyped barrel aged cigars.
Show Partners:
- Catoctin Creek has been honoring that tradition of small craft rye whisky since 2009. Learn more at CatoctinCreekDistilling.com.
- Smooth Ambler builds on the traditional roots of American whiskey in West Virginia. Visit SmoothAmbler.com to learn more.
- Wilderness Trail is Sweet Mash Kentucky Straight Bourbon and Rye Whiskey distilled, aged, and bottled in Danville, Kentucky. Learn more at WildernessTrailDistillery.com.
- You can now buy Barrell Craft Spirits products online and have them shipped right to your door. Visit BarrellBourbon.com and click Buy Now.
- Spirits of French Lick is delivering the finest hand crafted Bottled in Bond bourbons. Check out SpiritsofFrenchLick.com.
- Savor every drop of summer at Total Wine & More! You’re sure to find cool prices in-store or online at TotalWine.com.
- Heaven Hill Distillery has been lifting America’s spirit since 1935. Check out educational resources and sign up for their newsletter at HeavenHillDistillery.com.
Show Notes:
- This week’s Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about age statements.
- What got you into cigars?
- When did you have your first cigar?
- Talk about the history of cigars in Cuba.
- Are there are a lot of fake Cuban cigars?
- What cigar do you recommend for pairing with bourbon?
- How many cigars do you smoke a day?
- Do you take tasting notes on cigars?
- How do you get rid of the cigar taste in your mouth?
- How do they age cigars?
- What are your thoughts on barrel aged cigars?
- What is a good amount to spend on a humidor?
- Tell us about your journey in bourbon.
- Is the cigar community like the bourbon community?
- Do you prefer pairing cigars with bourbon or Scotch?