Jim -

Thanks for the comment and the question. I think I speak for both Jim and myself by saying that when it comes to pairings it is an incredibly personal thing. Every cigar smoker or libation enjoyer has different tastes. For us this pairing was not ideal, the cigar did well, but we did feel that the Clynelish was just too unfinished to recommend it fully. As we mentioned in the episode it was a newly opened bottle and we will try it again after letting it air a bit so we will see down the road.

So what do you enjoy to smoke and drink? There’s not really a right or wrong here. Jump in. Try matching whatever you have around but think about the fundamentals of the taste (and aroma) characteristics of what you have. A Maduro will tend to be on the sweeter side and matching it with something too strong may overpower it, where as a nice bourbon could go a long way to bring out the best. A mild drink may fall dead against a strong cigar, or they may meld together perfectly.

But if you want to try something in the spirit of the Clynelish with the La Aroma de Cuba, then try another highland like Highland Park or a Macallen, but either way enjoy it and keep notes of your experiences to look back on as you educate your own pallete.

Thanks again for listening.

– Mike