321 - The Truth and Hype Around Cigars and Bourbon with Ibis Luis

Bourbon Pursuit

Cigars... they are one of the best ways to enjoy a nice glass of bourbon. The flavors and aromas all become enhanced into a better overall experience. We talked about cigars and bourbon back on episode 129 with Jeremy and Jake from Jake's Cigar Lounge, but this time we're joined by Ibis Lu. She's a Cigar Sommelier and Certified Bourbon Steward, but also operates the Instagram account @Cigarlover12. She's probably been smoking cigars for longer than me and you combined. We talk about aging cigars, fake cubans, and the overhyped barrel aged cigars.

Show Partners:

• Catoctin Creek has been honoring that tradition of small craft rye whisky since 2009. Learn more at CatoctinCreekDistilling.com.
• Smooth Ambler builds on the traditional roots of American whiskey in West Virginia. Visit SmoothAmbler.com to learn more.
• Wilderness Trail is Sweet Mash Kentucky Straight Bourbon and Rye Whiskey distilled, aged, and bottled in Danville, Kentucky. Learn more at WildernessTrailDistillery.com.
• You can now buy Barrell Craft Spirits products online and have them shipped right to your door. Visit BarrellBourbon.com and click Buy Now.
• Spirits of French Lick is delivering the finest hand crafted Bottled in Bond bourbons. Check out SpiritsofFrenchLick.com.
• Savor every drop of summer at Total Wine & More! You’re sure to find cool prices in-store or online at TotalWine.com.
• Heaven Hill Distillery has been lifting America’s spirit since 1935. Check out educational resources and sign up for their newsletter at HeavenHillDistillery.com.

Show Notes:

• This week’s Above the Char with Fred Minnick (@fredminnick) talks about age statements.
• What got you into cigars?
• When did you have your first cigar?
• Talk about the history of cigars in Cuba.
• Are there are a lot of fake Cuban cigars?
• What cigar do you recommend for pairing with bourbon?
• How many cigars do you smoke a day?
• Do you take tasting notes on cigars?
• How do you get rid of the cigar taste in your mouth?
• How do they age cigars?
• What are your thoughts on barrel aged cigars?
• What is a good amount to spend on a humidor?
• Tell us about your journey in bourbon.
• Is the cigar community like the bourbon community?
• Do you prefer pairing cigars with bourbon or Scotch?