Thursday, March 11, 2010

Cohiba Edicion Limitada 2003


Enjoying these during the 3 days of vacation down in Mexico. The Cohiba Double Coronas was a powerhouse in the beginning of aged sherry, nuts, and high spices... then it falls short, rock bottom, because it's a fake... a 7 years aged with golden ash heart (see pic below). But I am still thankful to this generous gift from my friend as a birthday gift. Anything tastes better down by the Caribbean. The 06 Monte 2 was solid as usual, specially with 4 years on it's belt. I've been rewarding myself with a Monte Piramide every year for the past 6 yrs, buying a new one on my birthday to replace one. Quite a good learning experience.


Also picked up a new habit of venturing to a liquor which could pair well with the smoke. I'd found 2 these year, a tequila and a Kentucky bourbon. Pappy Van Winkle's Family Reserve 15 years. this treat is from a good tea friend who understands my passion for the leaves (tea & cigar). The inviting color of rich cherry copper and the big nose of coffee, cinnamon, aged port, oak and sweet wood infused me. With a good awakening from it's high proof, the youth and vigor from the middle notes did hold me back to reality. Perfect balance with a Partagas Serie P No 2.

Friday, March 5, 2010

Tequila Gran Centenario Anejo


I never dreamt of paring 100% blue agave tequila with habanos, until a stay at the Secrets, Riviera Maya, this past weekend for a birthday get-away. Thanks to my lovely wife for the special treat. There, we had a tequila tasting event.

Although there are a few (3-7 years aged) selections which could easily top this Gran Centenario, the oak/sherry woody aroma with the sweet tobacco finish really pared well with both my '06 Monte No. 2 and a Partagas Piramide. The only upsetting experience was purchasing this bottle at the resort, which they said is on promotion at $60 per bottle. Later we found the same bottle at the airport for $29.... Hack... what a sucker... or a sipper?