Good take on this subject by Jdrews. He writes:
I think “pairing” for cigars is actually under estimated. Before I choose the cigar for the evening I always consider a pairing as a drink. As a rule of thumb, if i choose a strong cigar then i drink something strong like a Whiskey. If i choose a medium cigar then I go with a good Brandy. Then if the cigar is a mild cigar I normally go with a Rum. Same principle if I decide to go with a wine. If the cigar is strong and I’m going with a wine then I would choose a Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon. With a medium cigar i would go with a Sangiovese if choosing a red or a Chardonnay if choosing a white wine. If I go with a mild cigar I would choose Sauvignon Blanc or a Riesling. Depending on a dry cigar or not i would balance it with a sweeter wine.
I also keep a journal with the cigars that I smoke. I have a leather journal and simply tape the cigar label to the top. Under the label I give my own ratings. One thing I journal about is if the cigar is “dry” or “wet”. The more the cigar makes me want to spit the higher that “spit” rating I give to it. The only reason I bring that up is that I try and balance a “dry” cigar with a “wet” pairing drink.
Interesting read… I traditionally preferred a nice sipping drink such as a cognac or rum, but one of my friend’s turned me on to drinking on of his home-brewed Port (Portugese or Dessert Wine)Wines.
Ironically enough it was a pleasant match, and now I am hooked on the combination.
I have varied with mild Corona and full bodied Maduro cigs with equally the same compliment. I would recommend hands down.