Gin
being a popular spirit for cocktails, gin is also a great base for enjoying with cigars. But with so many options, it can be difficult to know where to start. Here are 8 recommendations, in no particular order, to try with your next cigar.
First up is the Classic Martini paired with an Ashton Cabinet cigar. This timeless cocktail is made with gin and dry vermouth and garnished with a lemon twist or olive. The smoothness of the Ashton Cabinet pairs perfectly with the classic and elegant flavors of a martini.
Next is the Vesper paired with a Fuente Fuente Opus X. This cocktail was famously created by James Bond and is made with gin, vodka, and Lillet Blanc. The complexity of the Opus X is complemented by the layers of flavors in the Vesper.
For a classic and straightforward option, try a Negroni paired with a My Father Le Bijou 1922. The Negroni is made with gin, Campari, and sweet vermouth and is garnished with an orange peel. The bold and spicy notes of the My Father cigar are well-suited to the bitterness of the Campari.
Another option is the Corpse Reviver No. 2 paired with a La Aroma de Cuba MI Amor. This cocktail is made with gin, Lillet Blanc, Cointreau, lemon juice, and a touch of absinthe. It's a refreshing and slightly floral drink that pairs perfectly with the medium-bodied and spicy notes of the La Aroma de Cuba cigar.
For a more unique option, try the Hanky Panky paired with a Padron 1964 Anniversary. This cocktail is made with gin, sweet vermouth, and Fernet Branca and is garnished with an orange peel. The richness of the Padron cigar is balanced by the herbal and slightly bitter notes of the Hanky Panky.
For a twist on a classic, try the Tuxedo No. 2 paired with an Ashton VSG. This cocktail is made with gin, dry vermouth, Maraschino liqueur, and absinthe and is garnished with a lemon twist. The bold flavors of the Ashton VSG are complemented by the layers of complexity in the Tuxedo No. 2.
Another classic cocktail option is The Last Word paired with an Oliva Serie V Melanio. This cocktail is made with gin, Green Chartreuse, Maraschino liqueur, and lime juice and is garnished with a lime twist. The bold flavors of the Oliva Serie V Melanio are balanced by the herbal and citrusy flavors of The Last Word.
Lastly, try an Aviation paired with a San Cristobal Quintessence. This cocktail is made with gin, maraschino liqueur, lemon juice, and crème de violette and is garnished with a cherry. The smoothness of the San Cristobal cigar is complemented by the floral and slightly sweet flavors of the Aviation.
While gin is often associated with tonic water, its versatility makes it a great base for cocktails to enjoy with cigars. Experiment with different combinations to find your perfect pairing.