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Sticks-n-Stonez is a weekly podcast that pairs fine cigars with premium spirits. Each week a premium hand rolled cigar is paired with just the right spirit to enhance the palate...
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Sticks-n-Stonez is a weekly podcast that pairs fine cigars with premium spirits. Each week a premium hand rolled cigar is paired with just the right spirit to enhance the palate and profile of each offering. During the episode Brent, the host, will share details about each offering and then present his opinion on the visual aspects, nose, and palate of the cigar and spirit and detail his opinion and rating of the pairing. He will also sprinkle in some of his own offbrand humor. Between each episode you can catch Brent on Instagram at @sticksnstonez1. The show's Insta account is approaching 20,000 followers so you should really jump in now.
Brent is a retired combat veteran with deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan. He picked up cigars while deployed to Baghdad, Iraq, in 2004 and has been developing his nose and palate ever since. With two decades of experience in cigars and 3 decades in fine spirits his senses are acutely tuned to provide the best possible advice.
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Brent is a retired combat veteran with deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan. He picked up cigars while deployed to Baghdad, Iraq, in 2004 and has been developing his nose and palate ever since. With two decades of experience in cigars and 3 decades in fine spirits his senses are acutely tuned to provide the best possible advice.
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31 DEC 2025 · 🥃🍂 Pairing Review
Canasteros 21 Year Old Rum × Arturo Fuente Opus X 20th Anniversary
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Spirit: Canasteros 21 Year Old Rum
Origin: Colombia
Aging: Solera system, up to 21 years
Style: Aged molasses-based rum
Production & Character
• Long solera aging lends layered oak influence without excessive heat
• Naturally sweet profile balanced by seasoned wood and gentle spice
• Designed for sipping rather than mixing
Nose
• Vanilla bean
• Toffee and caramelized sugar
• Toasted oak
• Soft dried fruit (fig, raisin)
Palate
• Caramel and brown sugar up front
• Vanilla cream and baking spice mid-palate
• Light nuttiness and polished oak
• Smooth, slightly dry finish with lingering sweetness
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Cigar: Arturo Fuente Opus X 20th Anniversary
Vitola: Toro (varies by release)
Wrapper: Dominican Rosado (Opus X grown)
Binder/Filler: Dominican Republic
Visual
• Reddish rosado wrapper with natural oils
• Firm pack, minimal veins
• Immaculate construction consistent with anniversary releases
Nose (Pre-Light)
• Cedar and fresh hay
• Sweet tobacco
• Subtle spice and cocoa
Cold Draw
• Sweet cedar
• Light pepper
• Touch of dried fruit
Palate / Smoking Experience
• Opening: bold cedar, red pepper spice, dry earth
• Mid-section: leather, cocoa, roasted coffee bean
• Final third: intensified spice with dark chocolate and mineral notes
• Full-bodied, complex, and unmistakably Opus X
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Pairing Notes
• The rum’s caramel and vanilla soften the Opus X’s spice, creating balance rather than competition
• Oak from the rum mirrors the cigar’s cedar core
• Sweetness highlights cocoa and leather notes in the mid-palate
• Best enjoyed with small sips between draws to maintain harmony
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Overall Impression
This pairing is about contrast and refinement. The Opus X 20th Anniversary brings signature Dominican power — spice-forward, structured, and unapologetically bold — while the Canasteros 21 answers with elegance, sweetness, and rounded oak. The rum doesn’t try to overpower the cigar; instead, it smooths sharp edges and amplifies depth. Together, they create a luxurious, slow-burning experience suited for a special occasion and an unhurried evening.
Pairing Score: (9.5 /10) Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/sticks-n-stonez--5910792/support.
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23 DEC 2025 · This pairing sets the expectation of bold structure meeting refined elegance. Jack Daniel’s Single Barrel Heritage Barrel brings depth, intensity, and classic Tennessee whiskey character, while the Plasencia Alma de Cielo promises balance, creaminess, and nuance drawn from high-elevation Nicaraguan tobacco. From the outset, the experience suggests a slow-unfolding dialogue—one where the whiskey asserts itself with authority and the cigar responds with poise, creating a pairing meant to be savored rather than rushed.
The Whiskey – Jack Daniel’s Single Barrel Heritage Barrel
• Mash Bill:
• 80% Corn – providing the core sweetness and weight.
• 12% Malted Barley – contributing nutty depth and a rounded mouthfeel.
• 8% Rye – adding restrained spice and structure.
• Finished in specially crafted heritage barrels made from longer-aged maple staves, intensifying oak influence and complexity.
• Nose:
Rich caramel and burnt sugar lead, followed by toasted oak, vanilla bean, and maple syrup. Secondary notes of dark cherry, seasoned leather, and warm baking spices—cinnamon and clove—round out the aroma.
• Palate:
Full-bodied and mouth-coating. Maple sweetness arrives first, quickly joined by charred oak and cinnamon heat. Mid-palate reveals roasted nuts, dark chocolate, and seasoned wood.
• Finish: Long, warming, and barrel-forward, with lingering sweet oak, leather, and spice tapering into a gentle dryness.
The Cigar – Plasencia Alma de Cielo
• Construction & Appearance:
Impeccably rolled with a firm yet responsive feel. The light-brown wrapper is smooth, lightly veined, and carries a subtle natural sheen. Burn and draw remain consistent throughout.
• Nose (Unlit):
Sweet cedar, clean barnyard, and fresh hay, accented by light cream and a soft floral note reflective of its high-elevation origins.
• Cold Draw: Creamy cedar and hay with a mild natural sweetness and a touch of raw almond.
• First Third: Toasted nuts and sweet cream dominate, supported by light cedar and restrained baking spice.
• Second Third: Honeyed cedar and cashew notes take center stage. White pepper becomes more pronounced on the retrohale, accompanied by a delicate floral nuance.
• Final Third: Creaminess deepens slightly, joined by gentle earth, warm wood, and lingering sweetness, finishing smooth and composed.
The Pairing
The Alma de Cielo’s creamy, honeyed profile tempers the Heritage Barrel’s assertive oak and spice, while the whiskey amplifies the cigar’s nutty and woody characteristics. The cigar smooths the whiskey’s heat, and the whiskey adds depth and structure to the cigar’s refined flavors. Neither dominates; instead, they move in step, creating a measured and rewarding cadence.
Final Thoughts
This is a confident, well-structured pairing that rewards patience and attention. Jack Daniel’s Single Barrel Heritage Barrel delivers power, tradition, and barrel depth, while the Plasencia Alma de Cielo counters with elegance, balance, and nuanced sweetness. Together, they demonstrate how strength and refinement can coexist when thoughtfully paired.
Score: 9.5/10 Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/sticks-n-stonez--5910792/support.
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16 DEC 2025 · Pairing Review: Bushwood Front 9 Bourbon × Perdomo 20th Anniversary Maduro
The Bourbon
Bushwood Front 9 Bourbon
Mash Bill
Bushwood does not publicly disclose an exact mash bill, but the profile clearly points to a traditional, corn-forward bourbon recipe, supported by rye for lift and spice and malted barley for balance. The sweetness and approachability suggest a classic Kentucky-style structure rather than an aggressive high-rye build.
Visual
In the glass, Front 9 pours a warm amber with golden highlights. Medium viscosity — you’ll see slow, steady legs forming on the glass, signaling a balanced mouthfeel without excessive weight. It looks inviting, not overworked.
Aromas (Nose)
Right away, the nose is friendly and accessible:
- Caramel corn
- Vanilla extract
- Light toasted oak
- A touch of honey and sweet grain
There’s minimal ethanol prickle, making this an easy nosing bourbon, especially live on stream where first impressions matter.
Palate
On the sip, Front 9 stays true to its nose:
- Entry brings toffee, vanilla cream, and honeyed corn
- Mid-palate adds baking spice — cinnamon and nutmeg
- Oak remains gentle, never drying or bitter
The finish is medium length, with soft char, faint spice, and lingering sweetness. It’s a bourbon designed to complement, not compete.
The Cigar
Perdomo 20th Anniversary Maduro
Blend
This cigar is a full Nicaraguan puro:
- Wrapper: Cuban-seed Nicaraguan Maduro, barrel-aged
- Binder: Nicaraguan
- Filler: Nicaraguan
The maduro wrapper is the star here, delivering richness and depth while maintaining Perdomo’s signature balance and construction quality.
Nose (Pre-Light)
From the wrapper and foot, you’ll pick up:
- Dark cocoa
- Espresso beans
- Molasses
- Earthy sweetness with a hint of black pepper
It smells rich but refined — no sharp edges.
Cold Draw
The cold draw is smooth and effortless:
- Sweet cocoa
- Coffee with cream
- Subtle brown sugar
- A faint spice tingle on the lips
This sets the expectation for a bold but polished smoke.
Palate (Lit)
Once lit, the Perdomo 20th Maduro delivers immediately:
- Core flavors of dark chocolate and espresso
- Mid-palate brings molasses, roasted nuts, and earth
- Black pepper stays present but controlled
The smoke texture is dense and velvety, with a long, satisfying finish that coats the palate without overwhelming it.
The Pairing Experience
This pairing works because of contrast and support.
- The bourbon’s caramel, vanilla, and honey soften the cigar’s darker cocoa and coffee notes
- The cigar, in turn, pulls more oak and spice out of the bourbon
- Each sip after a draw feels rounder, warmer, and more expressive
Neither the bourbon nor the cigar tries to dominate — they elevate each other.
Final Thoughts (Livestream Close)
This is a relaxed, confident pairing — perfect for a long evening or a live conversation where you don’t want palate fatigue.
Bushwood Front 9 Bourbon plays the role of a smooth, dependable pour, while the Perdomo 20th Anniversary Maduro brings richness, depth, and presence. Together, they deliver balance, indulgence, and approachability. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/sticks-n-stonez--5910792/support.
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8 DEC 2025 · 🥃 OBAN LITTLE BAY — THE WHISKY
Oban Little Bay is the kind of Scotch you pour when you want class without pretension. It’s all Highland charm: 100% malted barley, finished in small casks that tighten the oak and warm up the malt.
Visual
In the glass it shows a confident light amber, like honey warmed by a fireplace. Slow, tidy legs run the walls—no rush, no apology.
Nose
Right away you get honeyed malt, citrus peel, and soft oak. Then a touch of biscuit and coastal breeze—just enough to remind you this whisky was born where land meets sea.
Palate
Smooth, clean, and honest. Notes of sweet malt, vanilla, orange, and a little wood spice. Just enough heat to keep it masculine, never enough to get rowdy.
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💨 MACANUDO INSPIRADO WHITE ROBUSTO — THE CIGAR
This stick shows up dressed right.
A golden Ecuadorian Connecticut wrapper with a silk finish, seams tight, veins low, and a pack that means business.
Construction
Solid in the hand. No soft spots. The cap cuts clean. The draw has just the right resistance—a slow burn built for conversation and whisky.
Pre-Light & Cold Draw
From the wrapper you get cream, cedar, a little hay, and a faint vanilla whisper.
Cold draw brings toasted grain, cedar, white pepper, and a shortbread sweetness.
Palate
First Third: Cream, cedar, toasted almond. Gentle white pepper on the retrohale—nothing flashy, just steady.
Second Third: The oak goes buttery. Cashew, linen, mild earth—smooth, composed smoke.
Final Third: More toast, more oak, pepper warms up but never bites.
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🔗 THE PAIRING — WHERE THE MAGIC HAPPENS
Together, these two don’t compete.
They respect each other.
How the Whisky Lifts the Cigar
Oban’s sweetness pulls the cream and vanilla straight out of the Inspirado White. That little citrus edge sharpens the cedar and brings life to the almond notes.
How the Cigar Lifts the Whisky
The cigar’s creamy body smooths Oban’s spice.
The cedar and light pepper nudge the whisky’s orange, biscuit, and soft oak into focus.
Final Impression
Smooth. Balanced. Easy to respect.
The kind of pairing you enjoy slowly—leather chair, dim light, jazz humming in the background.
Rating: 9.3/10
A gentleman’s pairing.
Understated power. Unforced confidence. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/sticks-n-stonez--5910792/support.
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2 DEC 2025 · 🥃 Benchmark Full Proof Bourbon & Brick House Classic Robusto Pairing Review
1. Visual Impression
Benchmark Full Proof Bourbon (125 Proof)
• Color: Deep amber with golden highlights—rich, oily appearance clinging to the glass.
• Legs: Thick and slow-moving, reflecting its full-proof weight and viscosity.
Brick House Classic Robusto
• Wrapper: Warm, rustic Colorado shade—slightly oily with a fine tooth.
• Construction: Firm pack with minimal veins and a well-applied double cap.
• Burn: Even, with a solid white-gray ash that holds an inch or more.
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2. Aromas
On the Bourbon
• Nose: Rich caramel, toasted oak, and vanilla lead the way.
• Hints of peanut brittle, dark cherry, and a touch of baking spice rise with the heat.
• A warm ethanol presence, but not harsh—inviting for high-proof lovers.
On the Cigar (Pre-Light & Cold Draw)
• Pre-light aroma: Cocoa husk, barnyard earthiness, sweet cedar, and a subtle natural tobacco sweetness.
• Cold draw: Raisin, hay, and a touch of nutty creaminess.
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3. Tasting Notes
🥃 Benchmark Full Proof Bourbon (Palate)
• Entry: Bold caramel and vanilla sweetness with an immediate warmth.
• Mid-palate:
• Toasted oak
• Roasted peanuts
• Molasses
• Dark fruit (cherry, plum)
• Finish: Long, warm, and spice-forward—peppercorn, cinnamon bark, and lingering brown sugar.
🚬 Brick House Classic Robusto (Smoking Experience)
First Third
• Creamy smoke with notes of toasted bread, earth, and sweet cedar.
• A subtle natural sweetness plays well with the bourbon’s caramel tones.
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4. The Pairing Experience
How They Interact
• The bourbon’s rich caramel and toasted oak immediately complement the Brick House’s cedar and bread notes.
• The cigar’s sweet, earthy creaminess softens the bourbon’s high proof, creating balance.
Second Third
• Strength and body increase.
• Cocoa, pepper, and nuts come forward.
• A slight mineral note adds depth without bitterness.
• As both evolve, the pairing hits its stride:
• Bourbon’s nuttiness ↔ Cigar’s cocoa & peanut notes
Final Third
• The profile deepens into oak, espresso, and dark chocolate.
• Pepper ramps up, matching the bourbon’s warm finish beautifully.
• Bourbon’s spice ↔ Cigar’s pepper in the second half
• Bourbon’s dark fruit ↔ Cigar’s espresso and chocolate finish
Overall Impression
This is a robust, full-flavored pairing perfect for enthusiasts who appreciate intensity without sharp edges. Benchmark Full Proof amplifies the cigar’s deeper flavors, while the Brick House Classic Robusto rounds off the bourbon’s heat with smooth, earthy sweetness.
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⭐ Final Verdict: 9.1 / 10
A muscular, satisfying pairing delivering warmth, richness, and classic bourbon-meets-Nicaraguan harmony. Ideal for cool evenings, slow contemplation, or sharing with friends who enjoy bold pairings. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/sticks-n-stonez--5910792/support.
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1 DEC 2025 · Coastal brightness meets sun-warmed earth.
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The Whisky: First Impressions
Visuals
Bruichladdich’s Classic Laddie pours like sunlight reflecting off shallow seawater — a luminous, almost electric gold.
Tilt the glass and you see slow, elegant legs forming, hinting at a silky, unhurried texture.
Aromas
The nose is unmistakably Bruichladdich:
• Wildflower honey
• Lemon zest and candied orange peel
• Vanilla cream
• Sweet malt and warm barley
• A faint sea breeze drifting in — not peat, but coastal air
It’s bright, floral, confident without being loud.
First Sip
On the palate, Classic Laddie offers:
• Sweet citrus oils
• Malted vanilla
• Honeycomb
• A creamy, almost shortbread-like roundness
• Soft oak and a clean, mineral finish
Elegant. Inviting. And the perfect companion for a naturally sweet Nicaraguan cigar.
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The Cigar: Perdomo Lot 23 Sun Grown Toro
Visuals
The cigar feels like a piece of Nicaragua in your hand —
a warm terra-cotta brown wrapper with a subtle coppery glow.
Light oils give sheen without slipperiness.
It’s toothy, rustic, and honest, with tight seams and an attractive Lot 23 band.
Cold Draw & Pre-Light Aroma
• Peanut shell
• Sweet hay
• Cedar shavings
• A sprinkle of cinnamon
• Dry earth warmed by the sun
The cold draw is open, balanced, and lightly sweet.
⸻
The Pairing Experience
First Third — “Bright Malt Meets Cedar Heat”
Whisky:
Take a sip of the Classic Laddie before lighting the cigar — its citrus, honey, and vanilla set a clean foundation.
Cigar:
Upon lighting, the Lot 23 delivers:
• Sweet cedar
• Roasted nuts
• A touch of pepper sparkle
• Toasted grain
Interaction:
The whisky’s floral brightness cuts through the cedar warmth, while the cigar’s nuttiness teases out deeper layers of malt in the whisky.
A beautiful contrast-driven start.
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Second Third — “Harmony & Cream”
Whisky:
As it opens up, the Classic Laddie brings richer honeyed barley, soft oak, and a mellow citrus sweetness.
Cigar:
The Lot 23 shifts into:
• Toasted almond
• Dry cocoa
• Creamy wood
• Earth notes becoming rounder and sweeter
Interaction:
This is the sweet spot.
Vanilla + citrus from the whisky pairs perfectly with almond + cocoa from the cigar, creating something like orange-zest biscotti dipped in malted cream.
Balance is perfect — neither dominates.
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Final Third — “Embers & Coastal Gold”
Whisky:
Warmed by the hand and softened by air, the Classic Laddie reveals:
• Salted caramel
• Warm barley sugar
• A deeper malt sweetness
Cigar:
The Lot 23 deepens with:
• Darker cocoa
• Light espresso
• Mineral-rich earth
• Returning pepper on the retrohale
Interaction:
This last stage feels like the sun setting:
The whisky smooths out the cigar’s earth and cocoa, while the cigar adds structure and spice to the whisky’s sweetness.
The finish between puffs becomes long, warm, and quietly complex.
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Overall Impression
This pairing is a dialogue between coastal elegance and sun-grown earthiness.
• The Classic Laddie brings brightness, citrus, honey, and floral lift.
• The Lot 23 Sun Grown offers warmth, nuts, cedar, cocoa, and natural grounded sweetness.
Together, they create a session that’s harmonious, balanced, and deeply relaxing — best enjoyed outdoors as the afternoon fades toward golden hour. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/sticks-n-stonez--5910792/support.
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1 DEC 2025 · The Whiskey: Wild Turkey 101
Wild Turkey 101 has long been the dependable workhorse of the bourbon world—big flavor, high proof, and honest Kentucky character without the premium price tag.
• Proof: 101
• Mash Bill: 75% corn, 13% rye, 12% malted barley
• Nose: Vanilla bean, toasted oak, orange peel, cinnamon, and a hint of leather.
• Palate: Rich caramel, baking spice, charred oak, red pepper heat, and a lingering sweetness that rides throughout the sip.
• Finish: Long, warm, and spicy with a returning caramel-oak echo.
This bourbon brings punch and presence—perfect for a cigar that can hold its own.
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The Cigar: Nica Libre Sun Grown
The Nica Libre Sun Grown is one of those under-the-radar Nicaraguan gems that smokes like it should cost twice the price.
• Construction: Firmly packed with no soft spots, clean double cap, and a reliable draw with slight resistance.
• Appearance: A rugged, copper-brown sun grown wrapper with visible oil sheen and fine vein structure; rustic but handsome.
• Nose (Cold Aroma): Earth, red pepper, barnyard sweetness, cedar, and a subtle raisin note.
• Palate:
• First Third: Pepper-forward with toasted earth, dry oak, and a ribbon of natural sweetness.
• Second Third: Creamier texture emerges—warm baking spices, roasted nuts, and a touch of citrus-like brightness.
• Final Third: Deep espresso, dark toast, earthy minerality, and a resurgence of spice that closes the cigar with authority.
Burn line stays steady throughout, producing thick, aromatic smoke.
⸻
The Pairing Experience
Wild Turkey 101’s spicy, high-proof character immediately amplifies the red pepper and toasted earth in the Nica Libre. The bourbon’s caramel and vanilla soften the cigar’s edges, creating a rounder, richer mid-palate. As you settle into the second third, the cigar’s developing creaminess harmonizes beautifully with the bourbon’s warm oak and cinnamon tones.
Take a sip after a long draw and you get a layered effect—sweetness first, then a surge of spice from both partners, all riding into a long, warming finish.
By the final third, the pairing turns darker and more robust. Espresso and char meet caramelized oak, creating a heavy, satisfying finale that feels far more premium than the price tags suggest.
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Pairing Summary
A bold, full-flavor, no-nonsense combination. Wild Turkey 101’s high-proof spice and deep caramel notes perfectly complement the Nica Libre Sun Grown’s earthy, peppery, espresso-driven profile. Big flavor, small price—this pairing punches way above its weight. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/sticks-n-stonez--5910792/support.
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21 NOV 2025 · Pairing Review: Penelope Valencia Bourbon & La Aroma de Cuba Mi Amor
Penelope Valencia and the La Aroma de Cuba Mi Amor come together in a sophisticated interplay of bright citrus, rich chocolate, espresso, and warm spice. This pairing unfolds beautifully from the first light to the final ash, offering depth, balance, and a dessert-like finish.
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The Whiskey — Penelope Valencia
Penelope Valencia is a Four-Grain Straight Bourbon finished for 12 months in Vino de Naranja casks from Seville, Spain, giving it a luminous and elegant profile. 
• Mash Bill: 74% corn, 16% wheat, 7% rye, and 3% malted barley. 
• Proof: 95 (47.5% ABV). 
• Age: At least 4 years. 
Tasting Profile: On the nose, there’s bold spice, iced coffee cake, and a blood-orange-glaze sweetness.  The body is layered with citrus zest, mandarin, and floral undertones.  The finish is rich and savory, with lingering orange peel and a hint of black pepper. 
⸻
The Cigar — La Aroma de Cuba Mi Amor
The La Aroma de Cuba Mi Amor is beautifully constructed, with a finely pressed feel and an appearance that exudes craftsmanship:
• Appearance & Construction: It wears a dark, silky San Andrés wrapper — deep chocolate-brown with minimal veins and very subtle seams. The cigar feels firm, but not rock hard, indicating a well-bunched filler with good humidity. The cap is cleanly applied, often triple-layered, which supports a precise cut or punch.
• Pre-Light Aroma (Nose): Before lighting, the wrapper gives off a rich, earthy cocoa aroma mingled with toasted almond, fresh-turned soil, and a whisper of brown sugar. At the foot, you’ll also detect espresso, cedar, and a soft baking spice note.
• Cold Draw / Pre-Light Palate: When you take a dry draw, you’re met with a smooth resistance and flavors of dark chocolate, black pepper, almond skin, and a creamy sweetness that hints at coconut or nougat — a layered and inviting profile.
Once lit, the Mi Amor evolves through the smoke:
• First Third: It opens with espresso beans, cracked black pepper, and a dusty cocoa flavor that’s dry but rich.
• Middle Third: The heart of the cigar blossoms into dark chocolate, roasted almond, and a subtle creaminess — layers of sweetness and nuts, with the pepper softening and earthy richness emerging.
• Final Third: In the last third, a more intense chocolate and toasted wood core develops. Pepper returns gently, and there’s a nuanced smoky-cedar finish that holds, giving a satisfying, long finish.
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Pairing Experience
First Third
• Light the cigar gently, draw slowly, and let those early notes of espresso and pepper develop.
• Take a small sip of Penelope Valencia: the bright orange peel and citrus zest in the bourbon instantly lift the pepper from the cigar, making the smoke feel more vibrant. The sweetness of the whiskey offsets the dryness of the cocoa.
Middle Third
• As the cigar builds into chocolate, almond, and cream, the bourbon’s caramel and baking spice meld with the cigar’s creamy sweetness.
• The citrus from the whiskey becomes less aggressive now, acting more like a supporting cast: the pairing starts to feel like an elegant dessert — chocolate-almond truffle with a zing of orange zest.
Final Third
• The cigar finishes with deeper chocolate, toasted wood, and a subtle pepper return.
• Sip by sip, Penelope Valencia brings out the toasted and savory elements, while its finishing orange peel and pepper notes balance the richness of the cigar.
⸻
Pairing Summary
This is a refined, dessert-forward pairing:
• The Penelope Valencia’s bright citrus (blood orange, mandarin) and warm baking spice elevate the Mi Amor’s dark chocolate, espresso, and almond.
• The cigar enhances the bourbon’s body, giving weight and depth, while the bourbon refreshes the palate and keeps the cigar from becoming too heavy.
• Together, they deliver a cohesive, layered experience that feels indulgent but balanced — perfect for a late-evening smoke-and-sip session. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/sticks-n-stonez--5910792/support.
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17 NOV 2025 · The Pour: Buffalo Trace Kentucky Straight Bourbon
Distillery: Buffalo Trace Distillery, Frankfort, KY
Mash Bill: Undisclosed (estimated high-corn, low-rye recipe)
Proof: 90
Appearance: Warm amber with golden highlights and slow, syrupy legs.
Aroma: Sweet caramel, vanilla, and honey layered with orange zest, dried fruit, and a hint of fresh oak. Beneath the surface lies soft spice — nutmeg, cinnamon, and a whisper of leather — all hallmarks of the Buffalo Trace signature.
Palate: Medium-bodied and rounded. Notes of toffee, brown sugar, and maple open the sip, followed by dried cherries, toasted nuts, and a subtle rye spice that balances the sweetness.
Finish: Long, smooth, and gently warming — flavors of caramelized sugar, vanilla, and oak fade into a lingering sweetness that invites another sip.
The Smoke: New World Puro Especial by A.J. Fernandez
Origin: Nicaragua (Estelí)
Wrapper: Nicaraguan Habano
Binder: Nicaraguan Habano
Filler: Nicaraguan (Estelí-grown)
Construction: Impeccable. Firm roll with a triple cap and silky-smooth wrapper. Consistent burn and creamy draw, classic of A.J. Fernandez craftsmanship.
Appearance: Medium brown with slight oil sheen and minimal veining — elegant and understated.
Pre-light Aroma: Cocoa, sweet cedar, and a faint barnyard richness — earthy and inviting.
Flavor Profile: Medium to full-bodied. Starts with roasted nuts, espresso, and cocoa powder, then transitions into sweet cedar, earth, and a touch of black pepper. Midway through, hints of caramel and baking spice develop, echoing the bourbon’s sweetness. The final third adds a gentle mineral note and toasted oak.
Burn & Ash: Even burn, tight ash, and consistent smoke output throughout the session.
Pairing Notes
This pairing is a study in balance — Buffalo Trace’s approachable sweetness enhances the cigar’s earthy richness, while the cigar adds depth and structure to the bourbon’s mellow profile.
First Third: The cigar’s initial cocoa and espresso tones find harmony with the bourbon’s caramel and vanilla. The oak from both complements beautifully, with the bourbon’s sweetness taming the cigar’s earthy spice.
Middle Third: The New World opens up into nuttier, creamier territory, while Buffalo Trace shows more of its fruity side — cherry and orange zest come forward, brightening the smoke. Together, they create a warm, dessert-like character reminiscent of spiced chocolate and brown sugar.
Final Third: The cigar deepens with roasted coffee and a touch of black pepper. The bourbon’s gentle oak and toffee sweetness smooth the finish, leaving a lasting impression of cocoa, honey, and charred wood.
Pairing Summary
Balance: 9/10
Complexity: 8.5/10
Body Match: Excellent — both medium-bodied
Overall Experience: Exceptionally smooth and flavorful
Why It Works:
Buffalo Trace’s classic sweetness and mild spice perfectly align with the Puro Especial’s earthy, roasted core. The bourbon lifts the cigar’s darker tones, while the cigar adds complexity and character to the whiskey’s soft profile. Together, they create a seamless, indulgent pairing that highlights the strengths of both.
A timeless match that celebrates tradition, craftsmanship, and flavor harmony — a combination meant for slow sipping and steady reflection. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/sticks-n-stonez--5910792/support.
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Explicit
Transcribed
17 NOV 2025 · The Pairing Experience
When two titans of craftsmanship meet — Blanton’s Single Barrel Bourbon and the Ashton Virgin Sun Grown (VSG) cigar — the result is a symphony of depth, spice, and refinement. Both embody patience, precision, and legacy, making this a pairing that rewards slow savoring and mindful indulgence.
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Blanton’s Single Barrel Bourbon
Distillery: Buffalo Trace
Mash Bill: ~65% corn, 15% rye, 20% malted barley
ABV: 46.5% (93 proof)
Appearance & Nose
In the glass, Blanton’s shows a warm amber hue with glints of copper. The nose is rich and complex — vanilla bean, honeycomb, baked apple, and a touch of orange zest, all layered over seasoned oak and light clove. A subtle rye spice teases the edges, promising both sweetness and structure.
Palate
The first sip delivers Blanton’s signature silkiness. Caramel and brown sugar glide forward, followed by toasted oak, cinnamon, and faint tobacco. Mid-palate warmth from the rye adds vibrancy without overpowering the sweetness. Hints of nutmeg, dried fruit, and charred oak linger beautifully. Each barrel of Blanton’s has its own fingerprint, but all share a remarkable balance of sweetness and spice.
Finish
Long, warm, and satisfying — the finish brings back notes of vanilla custard, peppered oak, and a wisp of dark cocoa. It’s elegant without being overbearing, perfectly setting the stage for the cigar to follow.
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Ashton VSG (Virgin Sun Grown)
Wrapper: Ecuadorian Sun-Grown Sumatra
Binder/Filler: Aged Dominican tobaccos
Strength: Full
Vitola (reviewed): Toro
Appearance & Construction
The VSG is a visually stunning cigar — oily, dark brown wrapper with fine veins and expert rolling. The draw is smooth with a firm pack and slow, even burn. This is a cigar that announces its pedigree from the first glance.
Aroma & Flavor
Pre-light aromas of cedar, espresso, and black pepper transition seamlessly into the first third, where rich leather and dark wood dominate. As it progresses, layers of cocoa, roasted nuts, and a touch of molasses come through. The final third is bold — espresso bitterness, pepper, and charred oak intertwine with lingering sweetness. It’s unapologetically full-bodied but impeccably refined.
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Pairing Notes
From the first sip and draw, Blanton’s and the VSG reveal their kinship. The bourbon’s caramel and vanilla soothe the cigar’s peppery opening, creating a seamless contrast of sweet and spice. Midway through, both deepen — Blanton’s rye and oak align perfectly with the cigar’s leather and espresso notes. The shared oak and earth tones harmonize, while Blanton’s touch of honey and citrus brightens the cigar’s darker edges.
By the final third, the pairing hits its stride: the bourbon’s residual sweetness rounds out the cigar’s intensity, leaving a balanced afterglow of cedar, caramel, cocoa, and spice. Neither dominates — they converse like seasoned partners.
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Pairing Summary
This pairing captures balance through power and elegance. Blanton’s Single Barrel’s honeyed oak and baking spice weave effortlessly into the Ashton VSG’s leather, espresso, and cedar core. It’s a luxurious experience best enjoyed slowly — after dinner, with quiet jazz or soft light, where both bourbon and cigar can tell their story without interruption.
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Final Verdict:
⭐ Complexity: 9/10
⭐ Balance: 9/10
⭐ Body Match: Perfect
⭐ Recommended Setting: Evening wind-down with low light and contemplative company
⭐ Pairing Grade: A+ — A benchmark combination of strength, sweetness, and sophistication Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/sticks-n-stonez--5910792/support.
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Sticks-n-Stonez is a weekly podcast that pairs fine cigars with premium spirits. Each week a premium hand rolled cigar is paired with just the right spirit to enhance the palate...
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Sticks-n-Stonez is a weekly podcast that pairs fine cigars with premium spirits. Each week a premium hand rolled cigar is paired with just the right spirit to enhance the palate and profile of each offering. During the episode Brent, the host, will share details about each offering and then present his opinion on the visual aspects, nose, and palate of the cigar and spirit and detail his opinion and rating of the pairing. He will also sprinkle in some of his own offbrand humor. Between each episode you can catch Brent on Instagram at @sticksnstonez1. The show's Insta account is approaching 20,000 followers so you should really jump in now.
Brent is a retired combat veteran with deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan. He picked up cigars while deployed to Baghdad, Iraq, in 2004 and has been developing his nose and palate ever since. With two decades of experience in cigars and 3 decades in fine spirits his senses are acutely tuned to provide the best possible advice.
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Brent is a retired combat veteran with deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan. He picked up cigars while deployed to Baghdad, Iraq, in 2004 and has been developing his nose and palate ever since. With two decades of experience in cigars and 3 decades in fine spirits his senses are acutely tuned to provide the best possible advice.
Information
| Author | Brent Elrod |
| Organization | Sticks-n-Stonez |
| Categories | Leisure |
| Website | www.spreaker.com |
| brentelrod@sticksnstonez.com |
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