Some party animals out there soak cigars in whiskey for the flavor, and some are also trying to rejuvenate older cigars that have dried out. Although whiskey-flavored cigars always sound amazing, we wouldn’t recommend soaking cigars in whiskey. Let’s just say the mess isn’t worth it. But there is a way to infuse cigars with whiskey so that you can enjoy the flavor of whiskey while tasting the flavors your cigar has to offer. 

What Happens if I Soak Cigars in Whiskey?

Because cigars are made of high-quality tobacco they require proper storage, temperature, and humidity to maintain their flavor and aroma. Many factors can throw this chemistry off—most of all, moisture. When you soak a cigar in whiskey…

  • The liquid, however delicious it may be, will alter the flavor of the tobacco, making it difficult to enjoy the authentic taste of the cigar.
  • Your cigar will become over-saturated with moisture, leading to uneven burning and a harsh draw. This will most likely ruin the cigar. 

If you’re looking to enjoy your favorite cigar and your favorite spirit at the same time we can’t blame you for that—it’s an absolutely genius plan! But, there are better ways than soaking to get that whiskey flavor into your cigar.

How to Infuse Cigars with Whiskey

Whiskey infused cigars aren’t just a favorite of beginner smokers, even the most experienced cigar junkie enjoys cigars with a bit of pizzazz. You can still appreciate the essence of tobacco when a cigar is infused properly over time. If you try to soak your cigar in whiskey the flavor of your cigar will change too drastically and the quality of the tobacco will be compromised. You’ll need a few things to make this process work properly and that includes a little bit of time and patience. 

  1. Choose a few of your favorite cigars that didn’t cost you an arm and a leg, just for the first experiment. That way you can see if you like the end result (and if you don’t, nothing pricey is ruined). Once you know you like it, you can make a bulk batch to share with your friends. It’ll blow their minds, and you’ll have earned some major bragging rights. Also, make sure the cigars aren’t too dry to start; this will affect the smoking experience and not in a good way.
  2. Select a whiskey that complements the flavor of your cigars. You don’t want to infuse a cigar that already has an intense flavor profile. The type of whiskey you choose will depend on your personal preference, but a smooth and flavorful whiskey is often a good choice. Basically, use whiskey you would drink straight and you’ll be good to go. 
  3. Pour a small amount, about 1 oz., of whiskey into a shot glass.
  4. Set the shot glass inside your cigar box or sealed container and make sure it will fit when you close it so all that wonderful flavor stays inside for your cigars to adopt. 
  5. Place the cigars into the sealed container with the shot of whiskey and allow it to rest for about 6-8 weeks to allow the flavors to meld together.
  6. Once the cigars have rested, remove them from the container and enjoy sharing them with your friends. Take notes on what you like for the next time you want to infuse your cigars. 

It’s important to avoid using too much whiskey, or a whiskey that is too strong, because this can overpower the flavors of the cigar. You want to be able to enjoy the flavor of the tobacco as well as the whiskey in the cigars you infuse. 

whiskey soaked cigar
Image by dulezidar by Canva.com

What Are Popular Whiskies to Infuse Cigars With?

When it comes to infusing cigars with whiskey, there are several popular whiskies that are commonly used to enhance the flavor of the cigar. Here are a few types to try out:

  1. Bourbon: Bourbon is a popular choice for cigar infusion due to its sweet and rich flavor profile, which can complement the flavors of many cigars without overpowering their taste. Some popular bourbons to consider include Maker’s Mark, Jim Beam, and Buffalo Trace.
  2. Scotch: Scotch is another popular choice for cigar infusion, particularly for those who prefer a smoky and peaty flavor. Some popular scotches to consider include Lagavulin, Johnnie Walker, and Talisker.
  3. Rye Whiskey: Rye whiskey has a spicy and complex flavor profile, which can be a great match for certain cigars. Some popular rye whiskeys to consider include Bulleit, Rittenhouse, and Sazerac.
  4. Irish Whiskey: Irish whiskey has a smooth and mellow flavor profile, which can be a good match for mild to medium-bodied cigars. Some popular Irish whiskeys to consider include Jameson, Bushmills, and Tullamore Dew.

There are many other types of whiskey that can be used for cigar infusion, but the best choice will always depend on your personal preferences and the types of cigars you like to puff on. Also, we recommend using a box or Tupperware to do the infusing. A humidor will absorb the whiskey and those flavors will seep into the next cigars you store. 

Cigars and Whiskey Are a Match Made in Heaven

The rich and complex flavors of whiskey can enhance the flavors of the cigar, bringing out the natural sweetness or spiciness, depending on the type of whiskey used. At the same time, the smoke from the cigar can provide a unique flavor profile to the whiskey, creating a balanced and satisfying flavor profile.

Both whiskey and cigars are often associated with relaxation and enjoyment, making them a natural pairing for those who enjoy taking life slowly. Whiskey and cigars are what lasting memories are made of. Flying Cigar Company has all the tips you need for choosing the best cigars to infuse with whiskey. 

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