[I know Doc does.] Since I started drinking some powerhouse single Islay malt scotches with my cigars, certain smokes start to seem more one-dimensional than they would with something lighter like a Bloody Mary, coffee or even water. The first one that comes to mind is the Ashton VSG. It’s a great smoke, but with some of my full-bodied scotches it’s just a good smoke, not very interesting. Lately, I just end up going for spicier smokes like the DPG JJs, blue labels and the like when I have my scotch. I just love the combo so much.
What I’m trying to say is; Am I missing out on certain flavors because I drink full-flavored scotches?
Posts: 1509 | Location: CT | Registered: November 01, 2007
Since I started drinking some powerhouse single Islay malt scotches with my cigars, certain smokes start to seem more one-dimensional
Well, SteveSur, IMHO it depends on how you drink. If you take a sip after every or every other puff, of course your taste buds would be "confused." I very much like strong (especially brown) spirits with my smokes. But I spend more time smoking than drinking - basically I use the spirit to sort of "wash" and refresh my mouth every once a while (maybe every 2-3cm of cigar) when I feel my tongue and palate got used to the smoke too much. Works well for me, whether scotch or brandy/cognac.
For those of you who smoke on a budget like I do, I would HIGHLY recommend the Captain Morgan Private Stock rum. It isn't nearly as punchy as some rums, but the additional spices and bouquet add greatly to a good cigar.
I am also a Scotch drinker. My favorite scotch so far is the Glenmorangie 18 year. I think that all alcohol brings distinctive flavors out of a cigar, so maybe you should find a gar you like and try that single one with several different liquors to distinguish the recognizable flavors.
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