Cigars and Cuban coffee are natural companions—two timeless indulgences that seem made for each other. The bold richness of a handmade Havana pairs beautifully with the dark, potent shot of espresso locals call “un cafecito”. In Cuba, people have been enjoying this ritual for well over a century, and for many, it completes the authentic smoking experience.
A Brief History of Coffee
Legend tells of Kaldi, an Arabian goatherd, who noticed his goats dancing joyfully after eating bright red cherries from a strange shrub. Curious, he tried them himself and discovered their stimulating effects. Word spread, and soon monks were using coffee to stay awake during long hours of prayer.
Though romantic, the truth is slightly different: Coffee arabica originated in Ethiopia before being cultivated in Yemen as early as the 6th century. From there, coffee houses spread across Cairo and Mecca, transforming coffee from a stimulant into a cultural obsession.
From Bean to Brew
Before coffee reaches your cup, three essential steps shape its character:
- Roasting – Heat unlocks the oils and aromas that define flavour.
- Grinding – The grind must match the brewing method, from coarse for plungers to fine for espresso.
- Brewing – The perfect temperature and timing are crucial for balance.
Skilled roasters and baristas treat these steps like an art form, ensuring every sip captures the bean’s unique potential.
Blending & Roasting
Not all coffees are created equal. Some beans offer acidity but lack body; others bring depth but muted flavours. Blending allows roasters to strike a balance, while single-origin Arabicas showcase unblended purity for those who prefer authenticity.
Roasting then adds another layer of character:
- Light roasts – Bright, fruity, and aromatic.
- Medium roasts – Smooth, balanced, and versatile.
- Dark roasts (Continental/Espresso) – Bold, smoky, and intense—favoured for strong black coffee or lattes.
Visit a London street market and you’ll smell beans crackling in old-style drum roasters, where experienced hands judge the perfect roast by sight, sound, and aroma.
Brewing Methods Around the World
Coffee culture is as diverse as its drinkers. Here are some of the most popular methods:
- Cafetiere (French Press): Rich, full-bodied, and one of the easiest ways to brew at home.
- Filter Coffee: Clean, smooth, and sediment-free; best with paper or gold filters.
- Espresso Machines: The classic cafecito, with hot water forced through finely ground coffee.
- Turkish Coffee: Ritualised and strong, brewed with sugar in an ibrik, often served frothy and unfiltered.
- Jug or Pot Brewing: Old-fashioned, but still charming—simply infuse grounds with hot water and strain.
Each method draws out different nuances of the bean, from subtle floral notes to deep chocolate richness.
Tips for the Perfect Cup
- Always use freshly roasted beans—coffee loses flavour within days.
- Grind only what you need for immediate brewing.
- Use fresh, filtered water; coffee is 98% water, so quality matters.
- Avoid percolators—they tend to over-extract and produce bitterness.
- Drink immediately after brewing; coffee, like cigars, is best savoured fresh.
Coffee & Cigar Pairing
Nothing elevates a smoke quite like the right cup of coffee. A creamy espresso can soften the pepper of a robust Partagás, while a medium-roast cafecito enhances the cocoa and cedar notes of a Montecristo. Even a lighter roast can highlight the floral subtleties of a Romeo y Julieta.
Whether you prefer a quick shot of Cuban espresso or a leisurely cafetiere, coffee and cigars share a natural harmony—both demand patience, craftsmanship, and appreciation of flavour.
Final Word
Cuban coffee isn’t just a drink—it’s a ritual, a piece of culture, and the perfect companion to a fine cigar. From its legendary origins to the hiss of the espresso pot and the curl of cigar smoke, it’s an experience that connects history, craft, and pleasure.
So next time you light up, ask yourself: Have you tried it with a cafecito?