At DT1920, we believe that the art of indulgence lies in the interplay between fine cigars and exquisite spirits. Pairing the right Japanese whisky with a premium cigar can create a transcendent experience—one that highlights the nuances in both. In this guide, we take you through five exceptional cigar + Japanese whisky pairings you’ll want to savor at our lounge.
—
1. Hibiki 17 + Medium-Bodied Maduro Cigar
Why it works:
Hibiki 17 is known for its elegant complexity—floral, honey, subtle oak. Its delicate balance complements a medium-bodied Maduro cigar without overpowering it. This pairing draws out soft tobacco sweetness and raises the floral notes in the whisky.
Suggested tasting method:
– Light the cigar and take a small puff
– Pause for 10–15 seconds
– Sip Hibiki 17 slowly, letting it coat the palate
– Alternate and enjoy the evolving conversation between smoke and spirit
—
2. Yamazaki 12 + Connecticut Shade Wrapper Cigar
Why it works:
Yamazaki 12 is fruity, nutty, and smooth—ideal for a milder cigar like a Connecticut Shade. The gentle cigar lets the whisky’s oak, citrus, and almond notes shine, while the spirit adds subtle depth to the smoke.
Pro tip:
Serve the whisky in a tulip or Glencairn glass to concentrate aromas. Keep the cigar light and polished so it doesn’t overwhelm the drink.
—
3. Hakushu 12 + Cedar-Wrapped Puro
Why it works:
Hakushu is slightly peated with herbal, forest-like aromas. A cedar-wrapped puro (cigar wrapped in cedar leaf) echoes its wooded tones. This pairing accentuates green, earthy notes in both the smoke and the dram, creating a lush forest ambience.
Experience note:
Let the smoke linger, then inhale the whisky. Observe how the cedar aroma evolves into minty and mossy trails.
—
4. Nikka Coffey Grain Whisky + Light Habano Cigar
Why it works:
Nikka Coffey Grain is rich, creamy, with caramel and vanilla undernotes. A lighter Habano cigar has spice and fruity edges—this contrast enhances both sides. The whisky’s sweetness tames the cigar’s spice, and the cigar sharpens the spirit’s finish.
Pairing tip:
Alternate in 3 puffs of cigar, 1 sip of whisky. As you progress, the edges soften, and the blend becomes harmonious.
—
5. Tsutsumi Taru 12 + Full-Bodied Maduro
Why it works:
Tsutsumi Taru (aged in casks, “taru”) delivers dried fruit, oak spice, and soft caramel. A full-bodied Maduro (rich, leathery, bold) brings strength. This pairing creates a powerful, cinematic union where neither overtakes the other—they rise together.
Best enjoyed:
Towards the end of the evening, in a quiet corner, with minimal distractions—let the richness settle.
—
Pairing Principles to Remember
– Match strengths: Mild cigar + lighter whisky, bold cigar + robust whisky. [1]
– Harmony vs contrast: You can choose similar notes or contrasting ones to create balance. [2]
– Glassware matters: Use nosing / tulip / Glencairn glasses to concentrate aromas. [3]
—
These five pairings are just the beginning. At DT1920, our sommeliers refine combinations based on your palate and mood. Whether you’re a cigar aficionado or a whisky lover, let us guide you through a sensorial journey you won’t forget.
Reserve your tasting experience today and let your senses discover the poetry between smoke and spirit.
Recent Comments