This largely depends on personal preference. For some, cigars and champagne can be a luxurious and indulgent treat, while for others, it may not be the best combination. However, the notes of the cigar will affect the taste of the champagne, so it is important to consider the flavours of both items before making a decision. For those who enjoy the smoky flavour of cigars, a dry, crisp champagne may be the perfect pairing. For those who prefer a sweeter champagne, a milder cigar may be preferable. Ultimately, the best way to decide whether cigars and champagne pair well together is to experiment and find out what works best for you.
Pairing cigars with Champagne can be a delightful experience for those who appreciate the combination. The lighter taste of Champagne compared to spirits like whisky allows the complex flavours of the cigar to shine through. The bubbles in Champagne also help cleanse the palate, refreshing it between puffs and enhancing the overall experience. Additionally, the lower alcohol content of Champagne or good quality sparking wine allows for a more refined ability to sense the aromas and flavours of the cigar.
The luxury and sophistication associated with both cigars and Champagne make this pairing perfect for special occasions or celebrations. When selecting Champagne, it’s not necessary to go for the top-tier options, as there are very good alternatives. Consider sparkling wines that can offer a satisfying experience with a mild cigar such as Gratien & Meyer Cuvée Flamme NV or Midas Prosecco Extra Dry which we tasted recently with a Hoyo de Monterrey Petit Robusto. Midas Prosecco draws on centuries of tradition in the sun-drenched hills of Friuli-Venezia Giulia, Italy, bringing together the best of old and new. Only the best Glera grapes are carefully selected to make up 100% of Midas Prosecco. The usual process for mainstream prosecco is to spend 10-30 days on the lees, however, Midas is in contact for 120 days. This extended period of time enhances the quality of the prosecco, providing finer and livelier bubbles, a more rounded and complex flavour, and a crisp and fruity finish. We found this paired perfectly with the Hoyo de Monterrey cigar which offers a mild flavour with less intensity than most other Cubans
To enhance your enjoyment of both your cigar and champagne, we recommend selecting a mild cigar that complements the delicate nature of champagne. Opting for a mild cigar, especially one that has been properly aged in a humidor, can enhance the pairing. Some excellent choices include the Montecristo Media Corona, Davidoff Grand Cru No.5 or the Joya de Nicaragua Cabinetta Toro. These cigars have smooth, complex, and subtle flavours that result from the ageing process ensuring that the flavours of the cigar and champagne won’t overpower each other. It’s crucial to achieve harmony and balance in your pairing. Additionally, when selecting champagne, it’s advisable to choose one ideally with lower acidity, as this allows for a better pairing. High acidity in the champagne may negatively impact the flavours of the cigar.
Pol Roger is perhaps best known as Winston Churchill’s favourite Champagne. The house remains family-owned and has a reputation for producing champagnes of finesse and elegance which age very well. Pol Roger’s prestige cuvée champagne, Cuvée Sir Winston Churchill, is named after the late statesman and cigar aficionado. As a tribute to his love for cigars, Churchill’s name was added to Romeo y Julieta’s most iconic size – The ‘Churchill’ remains a classic medium-bodied cigar, but the range has since expanded to include the new ‘Petit Churchill’, a ‘Short Churchill’ – and even a ‘Wide Churchill’! During his lifetime, it is alleged Winston Churchill drank approximately 42,000 bottles of Pol Roger and around 200,000 cigars!
To truly elevate the experience, explore the world of cigar pairings. Experiment with different combinations to discover the flavours and aromas that enhance each other. Whether you prefer the rich notes of whisky, the range of beer styles or the effervescence of champagne and sparking wine, a great drink always complements a great cigar.
Indulging in a cigar accompanied by a beautiful glass of champagne is often reserved for special moments. Whether it’s celebrating Christmas, a new year, a milestone, or a joyous occasion like a wedding or birthday, the combination of champagne and cigars adds an extra touch of elegance and enjoyment. However, there’s no need to limit this heavenly pairing to rare events. When the mood strikes, why not open a bottle of champagne or a quality sparkling wine, light up a cigar and savour the moment. Your good health!
At Simply Cigars London, we share your passion for cigars and everything that enhances the smoking journey. Explore our cigar range to find the perfect cigars for your pairing experience. If you have any questions or need assistance, feel free to contact us. We’re here to help you make every occasion extraordinary.