The Parallels Between Wine and Cigars

Wine has also been a rabbit hole of personal enjoyment for myself, it was actually something I explored fairly deeply before I got into the cigar industry. While I don't spend as much time learning about wine as I used to, I am still excited to have a professional Sommelier at the lounge this Thursday to discuss both wine and cigars! In preparation, I'm excited to share with you a brief introduction into the world of wine and its fascinating parallels with our beloved cigars!

Regionality/Terroir:

Just as we appreciate the distinct flavors and characteristics of cigars from different tobacco-growing regions wine enthusiasts value the concept of terroir. From the sun-soaked vineyards of Napa Valley to the rolling hills of Bordeaux, the environment in which grapes are grown contributes to the unique flavors and aromas found in each bottle of wine...Wine made from the same grape varietal can have a very different taste based on the region it was grown!

Aging is Necessary:

Similar to how tobacco ferments in aging barns and pilons, wine undergoes a transformative process as it matures in barrels and bottles. Care must be taken to keep flavor consistent! Both wine and cigars benefit from additional aging, with flavors mellowing and melding over time to create a more complex and enjoyable experience. Both also must be properly stored and cared for during their aging process!

Tasting Notes:

Strength and body are two terms used to describe both cigars and wine. In fact, wine can be used to better understand the terms in relation to cigars - strength describes nicotine content (similarly to alcohol percentage) and body refers to the texture of the smoke (like a viscous, full-bodied cab).

Also, just as we use terms like earthy, spicy, and leathery to describe the flavors and aroma of cigars, wine enthusiasts use similar descriptors to articulate the nuances found in different grape varietals. From fruity and floral to oaky and tannic, the tasting notes of wine echo the sensory experience of enjoying a cigar.

Ritualistic and Social Aspects:

Enjoying your cigar can very much be a ritualistic experience - there can be something special about just cutting and lighting your cigar. Wine also carries its own sense of tradition and ceremony. Whether it's savoring a glass of wine with friends or family, the social aspect of wine enjoyment mirrors the friendship and connections fostered by sharing a cigar. No matter the price tag, both cigars and wine can be used to celebrate special occasions and achievements!

Pairing Opportunities:

Much like how we carefully select the perfect cigar to complement our mood or occasion, wine offers endless opportunities for pairing as well. Whether it's a robust red wine to accompany a perfect steak or a crisp white wine with fresh fish exploring the art of pairing can enhance both the wine and your culinary experience.

In conclusion, as you delve into the world of cigars, I encourage you to notice the similarities it shares with wine. While the similarities run deep, I personally have not been able to successfully pair them on a regular basis. This may in fact change soon!