Five O'Clock Friday: I'm Just Drinkin'

Some music from the great Albert Collins to kick off the weekend.

Cheers!

Cigar Review: Powstanie San Andrés with Still Austin Single Barrel

I’ve long been a fan of Powstanie cigars. Both the Habano and Broadleaf lines, in multiple vitolas, make frequent appearances in these Musings. I often joke that Powstanie is my vacation cigar — I always seem to bring a few along on my travels. So when I read that the company was adding a San Andrés blend as a new core line, I was eager to give it a try. There is also a Powstanie Connecticut in their core lineup that has not yet tempted me.

The Powstanie San Andrés hit shelves in January of this year. I finally picked up a few in April but let them rest in the humidor for a bit before lighting one up — though I did sneak a preview by smoking one at the cigar lounge a few weeks ago. That little tease only whetted my appetite for the ones waiting patiently at home.

This cigar features a Mexican San Andrés wrapper over an Ecuadorian Habano binder, with a blend of Dominican and Nicaraguan fillers. The line currently comes in four vitolas, with a fifth coming later. For this evening’s repast, I selected the 5 x 50 Robusto.

The smoke opens with notes of semi-sweet cocoa and nuttiness. As it develops, flavors of espresso and dark chocolate come forward, underpinned by a steady hum of pepper spice that broadens the profile. The burn was even requiring no touchups, and the smoke remained cool down to the nub. The Powstanie San Andrés delivers a rich, medium-bodied, and flavorful experience.

I paired it with Still Austin Single Barrel Cask Strength Bourbon. At 116 proof, this bourbon has a surprising smoothness for its minimal two-year age. The strength is apparent on the nose — especially when concentrated in a Glencairn glass — but the palate opens with cinnamon spice that quickly mellows into brown sugar sweetness. Notes of raisin, plum, caramel, and molasses soon follow, creating a layered and satisfying pour.

The cigar’s bold profile complemented the bourbon’s sweetness and lingering spice beautifully. While strongly spiced bourbons can sometimes overpower medium-bodied cigars, the Powstanie San Andrés held its own — robust without being overpowering.

Cheers!

Five O'Clock Friday: Cliff Claven the Sage

It's hard to argue with logic like that.

Cheers!  (No pun intended.)

A Storm, A Smoke, and A Sip: Belgian Blue and Elijah Craig Barrel Proof

As I prepped to enjoy a cigar on the porch Friday evening, my phone alerted me that we were under a Storm Warning and a Tornado Watch. Undaunted, I grabbed a Crowned Heads Belgium Blue LE 2024 from the humidor and headed out.

The Belgian Blue is a limited-edition cigar released in 2024 by Crowned Heads — only 2,000 boxes of 12 were produced. It’s a 6x54 box-pressed Toro, featuring a Mexican San Andrés Maduro wrapper over an Ecuadorian binder. The filler is comprised of Nicaraguan and Dominican tobaccos, 75% of which are ligero leaves — the strongest part of the tobacco plant. Fittingly, the cigar is named after a breed of Belgian cattle known for their strength and sculpted muscularity. Coincidentally, we had recently watched an episode of Clarkson’s Farm where Jeremy was buying a Belgian Blue bull. That reminded me I still had a few of these cigars in the humidor, and it influenced the evening’s selection.

As I began to enjoy the smoke, I heard a roar in the distance, growing louder. It wasn’t a tornado approaching, nor a noisy truck as I first thought, but a wall of heavy rain moving swiftly through the trees. I quickly shifted my setup from the outer edge of the porch to the inner wall — just in time. The rain hit hard and loud. Colleen stepped out and said she’d heard the roar inside and wondered what it was.

At that point, I turned off the music I’d been listening to, as it was impossible to hear. In a twist of fate, the last song that played was “Storm Warning” by Charlie Musselwhite, from his new Look Out Highway album released just a couple of weeks ago.

With only a light mist reaching me now, I was able to continue my smoke. The Belgian Blue opens with bold pepper and sweet mocha notes. As it progresses, it evolves into a full-bodied experience featuring a medley of caramel, roasted nuts, and oak. The smoke is copious, rich, and creamy.

I paired the nearly hour and 45-minute cigar with a pour of Elijah Craig Barrel Proof Bourbon (Batch A124). Elijah Craig releases three barrel-proof editions each year, and A124 is the first of 2024. It clocks in at 119 proof, with a 10-year, 9-month age statement — one of the lower-proof and younger releases in the series.

This bourbon brings a robust profile of brown sugar, caramel, and charred oak, with a distinct cinnamon spice kick. The sweet and spicy finish is long and satisfying. I typically enjoy bourbon neat, and I’ve had this one that way. But for this pairing, I opted for a large ice cube. The slight chill and dilution smoothed some of the proof’s bite and opened up more sweetness. It paired nicely with the cigar, though eventually the bourbon became too diluted, muting the flavor.

Surprisingly, the sky turned blue as the storm front moved on. I restarted the music and enjoyed the rest of the cigar in unexpectedly pleasant, spring-like weather.

Cheers!

Retirement: One Year In

It’s now been a year since I retired. Though much of the past year has been marked by pain and limited activity, it has also been filled with joy and countless blessings.

It took a couple of months for the reality of retirement to truly sink in. At first, my thoughts were mostly centered around one simple truth: I no longer had to deal with the stress. The joy came from repeatedly thinking, “It's not my problem anymore.”

There is no peace of mind quite like walking away from an environment that left you drained, burned out, and exhausted. But that initial relief was only a distraction from the deeper, truer joy of retirement — knowing that my wife and I can now enjoy the life we spent so many years working for. I spent fifty years chasing a paycheck. No more.

Now, with healing well underway after back surgery — along with the relief it has brought — we are beginning to embrace this new chapter. It finally feels like the culmination of a successful career. And then there are the little things — like not having to spend Saturdays on chores, and enjoying our favorite lunch spots and avoiding the weekend crowds.

These days, I look forward to waking up in the morning. Interestingly, I rarely set an alarm, yet I still rise around the same time I did during my working years. Sometimes even earlier — probably because I can finally look forward to the day ahead. And sometimes, I just smile, roll over, and go back to sleep.

I like the AI-bot impression!

Cheers!

Five O'Clock Friday: Incoming Call

Excuse me, I have to get this.

Cheers!

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A Toast to John B. Keane

Irish playwright, poet, and pub owner John Brendan Keane (21 July 1928 – 30 May 2002) expressed his love for drink with a wit and passion few could match. On the anniversary of his passing, let’s lend an ear to his words once more — then promptly raise a glass, as he surely would’ve insisted.

 

Cheers!

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It’s Déjà Vu All Over Again — With Smoke

Yogi Berra is reported to have quipped, “It’s déjà vu all over again.” That’s exactly how I felt when I stopped into Hogshead Cigar Lounge for a smoke on Wednesday afternoon. Just like last Wednesday, it was raining again — or perhaps more accurately, it was still raining. It’s been a wet week, punctuated only by the occasional dry spell.

 

This time, I selected a Black Works Studio NBK to enjoy. Different cigar. Same seat. Same beverage. And, as always, great conversation.

Cheers!

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H. Upmann 180th Anniversary Churchill Cigar Review – A Bold & Elegant Smoke

I’ve had several H. Upmann 180th Anniversary Limited Edition Churchill cigars resting in my humidor since last November. Released in July 2024, these cigars commemorate the 180-year legacy of the H. Upmann brand, founded in 1844 by German banker Herman Upmann in Havana, Cuba. I’ve been waiting for warmer weather to light one up — I didn’t want to risk a somewhat pricey cigar to cold temperatures or a rushed smoke.

The H. Upmann 180th Anniversary Limited Edition Churchill is an elegant 7 x 50 cigar. It features a chocolate-hued wrapper leaf, identified as rare Nicaraguan medio tiempo — a small, potent leaf that occasionally grows at the top of the tobacco plant. Harvested from only about two percent of plants, medio tiempo is prized for its rich flavor and concentrated strength, and is rarely used as a wrapper. The binder and fillers are also Nicaraguan, which adds to the cigar’s depth and character.

The cigar sports a striking primary band marking H. Upmann’s 180th year and an unusual, cap-like foot band covering the foot. While attempting to remove the foot band without tearing it, I accidentally cracked the wrapper at the foot. Thankfully, a quick touch-up with PerfecRepair resolved the issue. A straight cut at the cap delivered a smooth, open draw.

From the first puff, I knew this was going to be a flavorful and complex smoke. Even before it had a chance to fully warm up, it delivered rich notes of chocolate and dark raisins. Black coffee, pepper, and cinnamon soon followed. The bold, flavorful smoke was complex and full-bodied, yet never harsh. A layer of spiciness sat beneath the dark coffee and sweet, dark fruit flavors, adding complexity without overwhelming the palate.

I paired the cigar with a classic Negroni, as I often do when not drinking bourbon. The bitter, botanical drink pairs well with full-flavored cigars, especially robust Nicaraguan blends like this one.

The H. Upmann 180th Anniversary Limited Edition Churchill provided an hour and 50 minutes of rich, satisfying smoking pleasure. It’s likely as bold and complex as a cigar can get while remaining smooth and enjoyable. To say I enjoyed it would be an understatement. I held onto the tiny nub with my fingertips, trying to draw out the experience as long as possible. I’m already looking forward to lighting another from my stock — though it will definitely be saved for a special occasion.

Cheers!

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Memorial Day: Gratitude and Vigilance

As we mark the unofficial beginning of summer, let us take a moment to reflect on and honor those who made the ultimate sacrifice in defense of our freedoms. While many of us gather with family and friends to enjoy the holiday with food and celebration, we do so with gratitude and remembrance for the true meaning behind it.

The courage and selflessness of our fallen heroes have played a vital role in securing the liberties we cherish today. As we pause to honor their memory this Memorial Day, may we also reaffirm our commitment to upholding the values they fought to protect and remain vigilant in preserving the freedoms they so bravely defended.

“The purpose of all war is ultimately peace.”

--Saint Augustine

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Porch Reflections: With Rocky Patel A.L.R. 2 and Green River Bourbon

Memorial Day weekend, despite marking the traditional start of summer, so often arrives cloaked in cool and rainy weather. At least, that seems to be the pattern around here. When our son was in high school, he worked as a lifeguard at the local pool and eagerly anticipated the start of swim season — mainly for the money-making opportunities. Yet, more often than not, it was too cold or stormy for the pool to open, much to his disappointment.

This year’s holiday brought another drop in temperature, with the thermometer dipping into the 60s. At least the rain held off. To kick off the weekend, I settled onto the porch to relax and enjoy a few of my favorite pastimes — cigars, bourbon, and music.

For the evening, I chose my last Rocky Patel A.L.R. Second Edition Bala. The A.L.R. Second Edition is one of my all-time favorite smokes. This particular cigar, an approximately 5 3/4 x 58 Perfecto, was the last of the stash I picked up at the Rocky Patel event held at Hogshead Cigar Lounge in November 2022 — where I was thrilled to meet both Rocky and Nish Patel.

The Bala vitola features a mostly closed foot and narrows towards the cap. After removing the slightly yellowed cello, I used my PerfecPunch to open the cap. Even after the foot burned open, the draw remained a bit tight, so I followed up with a straight cut. That did the trick — smoke production became copious and flavorful.

The blend is the signature A.L.R. Second Edition combination: a Mexican San Andrés wrapper, Honduran binder, and filler tobaccos from Honduras and Nicaragua. The cigar delivers well-integrated notes of coffee and espresso, with pepper and cedar spice, all underpinned by a dark fruit sweetness. The A.L.R. Second Edition consistently provides a flavorful and satisfying experience. Although this was my last Bala, I typically keep Robusto or Toro sizes in my humidor.

To complement the cigar, I poured the last bit from my bottle of Green River Kentucky Bourbon. Well, truth be told, it made for two good pours.

Green River offers a classic, easy-sipping bourbon profile: caramel, oak, and a touch of brown sugar, all well-balanced. There’s a hint of spice on the palate that fades quickly. At under $40, it’s a great value for a 90-proof bourbon aged over five years. With this bottle now empty, I’ll likely be picking up a replacement soon.

Despite a constant cool breeze drifting through the porch, the 90-minute session was quite pleasant. I had a Joe Bonamassa blues album blaring through the outdoor speaker, adding to the evening’s atmosphere. I spent much of the time reflecting on this time last year — when I was approaching my final week of work. It doesn’t feel like that long ago, and yet so much has happened since — adjusting to retirement and recovering from back issues.

With the bulk of that now behind me, I have a good feeling about the summer ahead.

Cheers!

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Five O'Clock Friday: Holiday Weekend Shopping

It's best to be prepared.

Cheers!

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Mid-Week Cigar Break: Enjoying the Powstanie San Andrés at Hogshead

A rainy day offered the perfect opportunity to spend a few mid-week hours enjoying a cigar at Hogshead Cigar Lounge. It’s always a pleasure to settle in indoors for a smoke — and since most of my cigar time is typically solo, it was nice to pair this one with a bit of friendly conversation.

For the afternoon, I reached for a Powstanie San Andrés. I picked up a few of these new releases last month but hadn’t yet lit one up. The ones resting in my home humidor are Robusto size, so I opted for the Toro vitola to pass the time today.

I’ve long been a fan of Powstanie cigars, and I was especially eager to try their new San Andrés wrapper version. I’m happy to say it more than lived up to my expectations. Medium to full-bodied, the cigar delivered rich notes of espresso and chocolate, complemented by a moderate pepper spice. I’ll be doing a full review soon — complete with a beverage pairing.

All in all, those two hours spent relaxing in the lounge made for a wonderfully satisfying way to enjoy a cool, rainy afternoon.

Cheers!

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Celebrating Recovery: Liga Privada H99 and Basil Hayden's Dark Rye

Friday morning, I went in for my three-month check-in with the back surgeon. Good news: I’ve been cleared to start bending and doing light lifting again — slowly and carefully over the next six weeks as I ease back into a more normal routine, realizing that full recovery could take an entire year. (The surgeon also reminded me that I’m not 20 anymore. Harsh, but fair.) He also gave me a referral for physical therapy, which I’m genuinely excited about. I’m more than ready to start rebuilding strength.

I celebrated that evening with a special — and large — cigar. The Liga Privada H99 line from Drew Estate was introduced last year. I picked up a box of the event-only 7 x 54 Corona Doble vitola  a year ago as a retirement gift to myself.

A hybrid Connecticut-grown Corojo wrapper encases a Mexican San Andrés Otapan Negro binder. The filler is a blend of tobaccos from Honduras, Nicaragua, and Pennsylvania. The minimalist band leaves plenty of the beautiful wrapper on display, and the lengthy cigar makes a bold statement.

I used my PerfecPunch to open up the end of the cigar. The draw was somewhat loose at first but developed into perfect resistance as the cigar warmed up. Smoke production was plentiful throughout the long session.

Flavors opened with hints of pepper and toasted bread. Brown sugar sweetness gradually built alongside notes of dark chocolate, and graham cracker. It stayed consistently in the medium-bodied range, with occasional dips into full-bodied territory. The flavors remained balanced, smooth, and consistent throughout. Even toward the end, the Liga Privada H99 never exhibited any harshness — a flavorful and thoroughly enjoyable smoke.

I’ve only smoked a few from this box over the past year. The two-and-a-half-hour (or longer) smoking time requires some commitment. I did have to relight the cigar a couple of times when I briefly stepped away.

I paired the Liga Privada H99 with Basil Hayden’s Dark Rye — a bottle that’s been on my shelf for several years, as evidenced by the “Basil Hayden’s” label. Around 2020, the brand dropped the possessive “’s” and now goes by “Basil Hayden.”

Basil Hayden’s Dark Rye is a unique expression blending Kentucky straight rye, Canadian rye, and California port wine. The result is a dark red rye with a wine-like, fruit-forward flavor — more sweet than spicy, and at just 80 proof, very approachable.

The sweet fruit, caramel, and mild rye spice notes of the Basil Hayden’s Dark Rye made for an exceptional companion to the Liga Privada H99. While it’s never been a favorite sipper on its own, I especially enjoyed it with this cigar.

The small amount left in the old bottle wasn’t enough to last through the entire long smoke, so I eventually poured some Four Roses Single Barrel Bourbon — coincidentally another bottle with just one pour remaining.

Four Roses Single Barrel is a go-to for both cocktails and sipping. Its profile — dark fruit, brown sugar, and spice — is more intense than the sweeter initial rye pairing. For this particular experience, the Basil Hayden’s Dark Rye was the better match for the H99. That said, I’ll still likely be restocking the Four Roses before replacing the Basil Hayden Rye.

Cheers!

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Five O'Clock Friday: Bourbon Math

A Public Service Announcement from Musings Over a Barrel.

Happy Friday!

Cheers!

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A Rainy Morning at John B. Hayes Tobacconist

I found myself in Winchester, VA this week with some time to spare, so I decided to stop by John B. Hayes Tobacconist in downtown Winchester. After a long drive through heavy rain, my luck seemed to turn — I found an open metered spot just around the block. Even better, I already had the ParkMobile app on my phone, so the absence of coins in my car wasn’t an issue.

I browsed the cabinet humidors for a few minutes while the proprietor helped another customer. Once he was free, he retrieved my selections, and I settled into one of the large leather chairs to finally enjoy a long-anticipated smoke.

The shop’s “old school” charm made an immediate impression — everything from the furnishings to the display of umbrellas and walking sticks evoked a bygone era. John B. Hayes Tobacconist is a long-standing institution in the DC Metro area, known especially for catering to pipe enthusiasts. While the cigar selection isn’t the most extensive I’ve seen, it’s more than adequate, with plenty of appealing options. In fact, I ended up buying more cigars than I had time to smoke.

Though I didn’t have quite as much time to unwind as I’d hoped, I still enjoyed a satisfying break after a two-hour morning drive. The dry shop on rainy morning offered a peaceful interlude with a good cigar, a comfortable chair, and a city sidewalk to watch. I’ll definitely keep John B. Hayes Tobacconist in mind for future visits to Winchester.

Cheers!

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Review: Rocky Patel Dark Star Toro

The Rocky Patel Dark Star was released in 2023, but despite being a longtime fan of Rocky Patel cigars and always looking forward to new releases from the brand, I never got around to trying this one — until now. I picked up a few in the Toro vitola this past January, and after a four-month rest in the humidor, I finally lit one up over the weekend.

Part of my initial hesitation may have come from how different this cigar is compared to Rocky Patel’s typical offerings. Rocky himself described it as "Cubanesque, but mild to medium-bodied" — a profile I usually find a bit unexciting. While I’ve smoked and enjoyed some Cuban cigars, they often come off as a little too subtle for my taste.

The 6 x 52 Toro features a delicate Honduran Corojo wrapper over a Mexican San Andrés binder, with filler tobaccos from Honduras and Nicaragua. Notably, the filler includes a Honduran-grown leaf from Paraguayan seed — a first for Rocky Patel — which adds an unusual twist to the blend.

The cigar I smoked had a minor cosmetic issue as the wrapper was slightly damaged near the midpoint, with a few flakes peeling away. I do recall having dropped it during a dig through the humidor not too long ago. Fortunately, this didn’t affect the burn or draw, and the burn remained even throughout. Smoke production was excellent right from the start.

Upon lighting, I was greeted with abundant smoke and an initial flavor of toast and cinnamon. Soon after, a mildly sweet nuttiness emerged, followed by notes of creamy coffee and chocolate. While individual flavor components stood out, the overall profile was somewhat elusive and difficult to pin down. The overall experience was surprisingly complex, with roasted nuts and cinnamon taking the lead in the mild to medium-bodied smoke.

At times, a fleeting mineral-like note crept in, though it never lingered long enough to be distracting. In the end, the Rocky Patel Dark Star delivered a unique and enjoyable smoking experience — not bold or intense, but flavorful enough to keep my interest. Maybe Rocky really did capture a bit of that "Cubanesque" character he was aiming for.

Cheers!

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After the Roar: A Porch, a Pour, and a Cigar

We did something a bit out of the ordinary this week: we traveled to Blacksburg, VA, to take in the historic Metallica concert at Lane Stadium. I’m not a huge fan of heavy metal, but I enjoyed the energy and sheer scale of the event. After a busy yet fun week, I looked forward to a quiet evening on the porch with a bourbon, a cigar, and some good ol’ blues music.

I poured a glass of Horse Soldier Reserve Barrel Strength Bourbon and lit up a Joya de Nicaragua Antaño Gran Reserva GT20. The pairing was intentional. I wanted a long, satisfying smoke, and the 124-proof bourbon would be perfect to chase away the springtime chill.

The 6 x 54 box-pressed Joya de Nicaragua Antaño Gran Reserva GT20 had been resting in my humidor for just shy of a year. This Nicaraguan puro features a dark, chocolate-hued Corojo Oscuro wrapper over a Nicaraguan binder and fillers aged for over five years.

Medium to full-bodied, the smoke opens with notes of cedar, espresso, and roasted nuts, finishing with a warm white pepper spice. The profile is smooth and balanced, with no harshness, and the spice gently lingers on the tongue. The flavor held consistent throughout the experience, which, as predicted, lasted just about two hours.

The Horse Soldier Reserve Barrel Strength is a wheated bourbon, with proof varying between 110 and 124.6 depending on the batch. My bottle comes in at 124 proof. It opens with a mouthwatering aroma of butterscotch, maple, and honey. On the palate, it reveals notes of charred oak, dark cherry, plum, molasses, and cinnamon. The finish is long and warm, with a lingering heat balanced by rich, dark sweetness. It’s a bold, full-flavored pour ideal for slow sipping.

Together, the Horse Soldier Reserve Barrel Strength Bourbon and the Joya de Nicaragua Antaño Gran Reserva GT20 created an exceptionally satisfying flavor pairing. Each offered lingering spice and depth, with just enough body to complement and stand up to the other.

The couple of hours spent on the quiet porch, with classic blues playing in the background, offered a stark contrast to the energy and chaos of the Metallica show. Whether it’s the roar of a packed stadium or the hush of a spring evening, memorable moments can be found in both. Adding a good cigar and a strong bourbon to the setting makes it even more pleasurable.

Cheers!

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Five O'Clock Friday: The Most Essential Element

You can't make beer, or whiskey either. So there it is.

Cheers!

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Sunday Deck Cocktails: Mandarin Bourbon Smash

With the return of pleasant weather, our tradition of Sunday cocktails on the deck is back in full swing. While I generally prefer my bourbon neat, I always look forward to these afternoons of relaxed conversation with my wife. Recently, I came across a recipe for the Mandarin Bourbon Smash. It sounded both tasty and, just as importantly, simple to make — so I saved it for later use.

Mandarin Bourbon Smash

• 1 Mandarin Orange
• 1 tsp. Sugar
• .75 oz Lemon Juice
• .75 oz Aperal
• 2 oz Bourbon
• Club Soda

Muddle the mandarin orange (retaining one segment for later) and sugar in mixing glass. Add the lemon juice, Aperal, and Bourbon and shake over ice. Strain into a rocks glass with ice. Top off the glass with Club Soda, stir gently, and garnish with the Mandarin slice.

For this cocktail, I selected Belle Meade Sour Mash Straight Bourbon. The light, citrus-forward profile of the drink seemed to call for a “soft” bourbon, and this 90.4 proof whiskey—with its mild character and touch of spice — fit the bill. While I don’t find the Belle Meade particularly compelling as a straight sipper, it performs well here.

We found the Mandarin Bourbon Smash to be an enjoyable and refreshing cocktail. I expect it’ll make more appearances this summer, especially on hot afternoons.

As a snack, we kept things simple with some potato chips. Their saltiness paired nicely with the citrus and bitter notes of the drink. Chips are, after all, a staple when enjoying an apéritif at bars in Italy.

I also enjoyed a cigar with the drink — as usual. I initially lit a Gurkha Cellar Reserve 15 Year 10th Anniversary from my humidor, but it turned out to be a poor pairing, and lacking in flavor overall. I set it aside and reached for a trusted favorite: the Crowned Heads Le Caréme, specifically the limited edition Pastelitos LE 2023. The Le Caréme proved to be a far more satisfying match.

Cheers!

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An Evening with Perdomo 30th Anniversary Maduro and Henry McKenna

I’ve been working through some of the older cigars in my humidor lately. The medium- to full-bodied cigars I prefer tend to lose a bit of their zing after too long a rest. However, this past Friday evening was an exception. Some of my newer acquisitions were calling to me — specifically the Perdomo 30th Anniversary Maduro, which I picked up in mid-March. After a seven-week rest in the humidor, I decided it was time to light one up.

The Perdomo 30th Anniversary Maduro is a stick I’d been eager to try. They’re somewhat limited and not easy to come by. Released in 2023 to commemorate Perdomo Cigars’ 30th anniversary, this cigar joins the ranks of the brand’s other celebratory smokes. I’ve previously enjoyed the 10th and 25th Anniversary releases and had high expectations for this one.

The softly box-pressed Robusto measures 5 x 54. It features an attractive, dark brown Nicaraguan maduro wrapper that’s been aged in bourbon barrels for 15 years. The binder and filler are also Nicaraguan, with some of the tobaccos aged up to 15 years as well. A large, colorful band with gold accents enhances the cigar’s festive presentation.

The smoke opens with rich notes of espresso and dark chocolate, underscored by a touch of black pepper. As the cigar progresses, a background spiciness of pepper and cedar lingers. Soon, flavors of dark fruit join the mix, complementing the chocolate and bitter espresso. Later in the session, a creamy sweetness emerges. The Perdomo 30th Anniversary Maduro delivers a balanced and thoroughly enjoyable smoking experience.

To accompany the cigar, I poured a glass of Henry McKenna 10-Year Single Barrel Bottled-in-Bond Bourbon. My current bottle was barreled on October 17, 2012, and purchased in April 2023. It had been a while since I last poured from it, but it’s a bourbon I always enjoy..

At the mandated 100 proof, this Bottled in Bond bourbon opens with aromas of caramel and vanilla, with a hint of fruitiness. The palate follows through with a pleasant blend of caramel and vanilla sweetness, balanced by a peppery rye spice that keeps the sweeter notes in check. Henry McKenna fits right in to the textbook "classic bourbon" profile.

Being a single barrel product, flavor can vary between bottles, but I’ve enjoyed every one I’ve tried. There was a time when it sold for around $25 a bottle. After it won Best in Show Whiskey at the 2019 San Francisco World Spirits Competition, its popularity surged and availability dropped — despite the fact that bottles on shelves weren’t likely from the (unnamed) award-winning barrel. For years, it was an allocated selection in Virginia. Nowadays, expect to pay around $60 and up.

The spring evening weather was perfect — mild and pleasant, with low humidity — which only enhanced the enjoyment of the cigar and bourbon. I cherish these early warm evenings in Virginia. The Perdomo 30th Anniversary Maduro was such a pleasurable smoke that I nearly forgot about my bourbon — though it, too, was a delight. The cigar lasted just over an hour, though it felt like much less. I smoked it down to the nub I could no longer hold, still wishing for just a bit more. 

Cheers!

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Bourbon Independence Day: A Toast to America’s Native Spirit

On May 4, 1964, Senate Concurrent Resolution 19 (S. Con. Res. 19) was passed, declaring that bourbon “is a distinctive product of the United States.” With that resolution, Bourbon Whiskey joined the ranks of other regionally protected spirits such as Scotch Whisky, Cognac, and Canadian Whisky — each of which must be produced in their respective countries of origin.

Although bourbon may have originated in Kentucky — then still part of Virginia — and the vast majority of it is still produced there today, bourbon is now made in all 50 U.S. states.

So, raise a glass (or two) and celebrate Bourbon Independence Day with your favorite pour!

Cheers!

Image from https://www.govinfo.gov/content/pkg/STATUTE-78/pdf/STATUTE-78-Pg1208-2.pdf

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Five O'Clock Friday: Decision Time

When it's finally the weekend, but you're undecided.

*randomly collected internet image -- credit will be given upon request

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Porchside Reviews: Angel’s Envy Triple Oak and Aganorsa Leaf Aniversario

We had a busy weekend in front of us, packed with activities with friends and family — and no small amount of driving. But Friday offered a quiet opportunity to sit on the front porch and relax before all the activity began.

Perusing my bourbon options, I selected a bottle of Angel’s Envy Triple Oak Bourbon for the evening’s pour. As for the cigar, I debated a bit before settling on an Aganorsa Leaf Aniversario Maduro Toro. Refreshments in hand, I headed outside to the sound of rainfall. Fortunately, the front porch offers good cover from the elements. 

The Aganorsa Leaf Aniversario Maduro is a cigar I picked up back in February during a visit to the Long Ridge Cigar Lounge. Once a limited edition, it’s now a regular offering in the Aganorsa lineup. The 6 x 54 box-pressed Toro is a Nicaraguan puro, featuring a Nicaraguan Shade Grown Maduro wrapper over Nicaraguan binder and fillers, all cultivated on Aganorsa’s own farms. The black and silver bands, along with a tissue paper sleeve, add an elegant touch to the cigar’s appearance — but of course, you can’t smoke the packaging.

The Aniversario Maduro delivered notes of dark chocolate and coffee, with a toffee-like sweetness balancing the profile. I didn’t detect as much pepper spice as I recalled from a previous cigar, though that difference might be due to the time of day; this was an evening smoke, whereas the earlier one was enjoyed in the morning.

Initially, the cigar struggled to maintain good smoke output. I needed to double- and triple-puff frequently, and touch flame to the foot a few times. Fortunately, about an inch and a half in, the burn stabilized and the smoke output became plentiful and flavorful all the way to the finish.

Angel’s Envy Triple Oak Bourbon is a new release from the distillery, debuting in late 2024. The unique finishing process begins with an initial maturation of four to six years in new American white oak barrels. Afterward, the aged bourbon is portioned to undergo secondary finishing in three different oak casks: 20% in French Oak for at least three months, 40% in Chinkapin Oak for at least six months, and 40% in Hungarian Oak for six or more months. This kind of complex blending and aging is still somewhat rare in the industry. Barrell Bourbon and Old Elk are two other producers that do similar blending, and as a fan of both, I held high hopes for this Angel’s Envy expression.

On the nose, faint aromas of spiced cookies and vanilla emerged. On the palate, the bourbon was somewhat dry and oak-forward, offering hints of cinnamon, vanilla, and tobacco, along with a mild caramel sweetness. Despite the oak-heavy profile, the Triple Oak Bourbon is well-balanced. At a moderate 92 proof, it’s an easy sipper. Even better, it appears to be readily available in most markets.

The pairing of Angel’s Envy Triple Oak Bourbon and the Aganorsa Leaf Aniversario Maduro made for a richly flavorful combination. As the gentle rain continued, I was entertained by the buzzing of hummingbirds visiting the feeder just behind my head. The diminutive birds seemed unbothered by my presence.

Cheers!

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Old Elk and All Saints: A Backyard Review

When a friend was visiting last week, we spent some time outside enjoying an afternoon smoke and drink. In selecting a cigar, I kept the recently deceased Pontiff in mind and chose the All Saints St. Francis to honor him. When then-Cardinal Jorge Mario Bergoglio was elected Pope, he chose the name Francis in homage to St. Francis of Assisi—after whom this cigar is named.

The All Saints St. Francis is rich with Catholic imagery. The dominant symbol on the band—a gold cross on a white shield with red trim — is the Cross of Saint James. Fittingly, St. James is the patron saint of Nicaragua, where this cigar is crafted at the Rocky Patel Tavicusa factory. The band also bears the Latin phrase “Pax et Bonum,” meaning “Peace and Goodness” — the traditional greeting of St. Francis of Assisi.

To accompany the cigar, I poured some Old Elk Cigar Cut Bourbon. It’s one of the few bottles I actually “nurse,” indulging only on special occasions. Generally, I believe bourbon — like cigars — is meant to be enjoyed, not shelved. But when it’s something I particularly enjoy and it’s hard to find, I try to make it last.

The St. Francis cigars have been resting in my humidor for just over six months. This box-pressed 5 1/2 x 50 stick features an Ecuadorian Oscuro wrapper over Nicaraguan binder and fillers. It’s a medium-to-full-bodied smoke with notes of black coffee, chocolate, and black pepper. At times, the coffee leaned more toward espresso, and the chocolate toward cocoa.

I found the profile more balanced than I remembered from the fall when I last smoked one. The pepper had mellowed, letting the coffee/espresso and dark chocolate notes shine through. The burn was occasionally wavy, and we both had to relight our cigars a few times.

The Old Elk Cigar Cut Bourbon was a treat to savor. It’s a masterful blend of bourbons finished in a variety of casks: Sherry (1.5 years), Armagnac (1.25 years), Port (3–8 months), and Cognac (3–6 months). It greets the nose with inviting aromas of caramel, vanilla, toasted oak, and spiced fruit. The palate offers layers of dark chocolate, toffee, and baking spices, with subtle notes of tobacco and leather lingering on the finish. As a fan of port- and sherry-finished bourbons with cigars, I found the added complexity from the multiple cask finishes especially pleasing.

We enjoyed our smokes and sips in the backyard beside the unlit fire pit. The screen porch and deck are still under renovation, but the yard itself was peaceful — the moderate temperature, light breeze, and low humidity made for an ideal setting. 

Cheers!

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Five O'Clock Friday: Sensible Budgeting

I'll admit it. This is exactly my thought process when shopping. However, cigars and bourbon bring me way more joy than any utilitarian purchase ever could.

*randomly collected internet image -- credit will be given upon request

Cheers!

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Smoke and Spice: Rojas Street Tacos Cinco de Mayo 2025

Although the afternoon weather was particularly pleasant, I decided to head over to Hogshead Cigar Lounge to enjoy a smoke this Wednesday. There’s always something new to try at the lounge, and this week, I went with the newly arrived Rojas Street Tacos Cinco de Mayo 2025. I’d spotted the announcement on their social media earlier in the week and made a mental note to check it out.

The Cinco de Mayo marks the second release in this limited edition series from Rojas. This 6 x 54 Toro features a slick, brown Ecuadorian Habano wrapper, a San Andrés binder, and Connecticut Broadleaf filler tobacco that was aged for seven years before rolling.

In the opening minutes, the Cinco de Mayo delivered a dry, somewhat chalky smoke with mild notes of earth and clay. It was more peculiar than unpleasant. Before long, hints of baking spices and cedar entered the profile, adding some needed roundness. As the cigar progressed, I picked up flavors reminiscent of charred wood and grilled meat, with a touch of black pepper. And then — believe it or not — I swear I caught a flavor that reminded me of mole sauce.

That mole-like note added a bit of quirkiness to the overall experience. I’ll admit, I’m not a huge fan of mole, so that might have colored my impression. Still, I genuinely enjoyed the Rojas Cinco de Mayo. It produced dense, flavorful smoke, had a consistent burn, and lasted a satisfying hour and forty minutes.

The lounge itself provided a calm, relaxing afternoon. I passed the time with a bit of reading and some casual conversation. The indoor setting was a welcome escape from the pollen-heavy spring air outside.

Cheers!

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The Bishops Blend Novemdiales: A Timely Smoke

When I awoke Monday morning to the news that Pope Francis had died, I knew exactly which cigar I would be lighting later. The Black Label Trading Company’s Bishops Blend Novemdiales seemed tailor-made for the occasion.

Novemdiales refers to the nine-day period of mourning in the Catholic Church following the death of a Pope. I had just one stick from the 2023 release left in my humidor, and this felt like the right moment to finally smoke it.

The Bishops Blend is an annual release from Black Label Trading Company, typically featuring a consistent blend year to year. But for their 10th anniversary in 2023, the company created something special. Enter the Novemdiales: a reimagined Bishops Blend sporting a Pennsylvania Broadleaf wrapper instead of the usual Ecuadorian Maduro. It kept the traditional Ecuadorian binder and filler tobaccos from Connecticut, Nicaragua, and Pennsylvania.

The 5 x 50 Robusto is distinctive, with its sharp, cone-shaped cap and closed foot. This full-bodied cigar offers a rich and complex flavor profile, opening with bold notes of dark fruit and bitter espresso. Deep undertones of dark coffee and cocoa provide a solid foundation, while a subtle molasses-like sweetness adds a layer of balance. Strong cedar and a moderate to pronounced peppery spice round out the experience — though after resting for 18 months, this particular stick had mellowed, softening the spice just a bit.

The Pope’s passing — not wholly unexpected after his long illness — came during the Easter season. As part of our Easter Sunday preparations, Colleen had made chocolate-covered peanut butter “egg” candies. I decided to enjoy one alongside the coffee I was sipping with the Novemdiales.

I’ve paired cigars with chocolate and mixed nuts before, but I was genuinely surprised by how exceptionally well this particular combination worked. The interplay of sweet and bitter flavors in both the candy and the cigar seemed to elevate each other. I devoured the candy far too quickly, but managed to resist the temptation for a second. I’ll try to enjoy another one with a smoke before they’re all gone.

An hour and a half on the porch, watching a flurry of birds — especially the hummingbirds at the feeder — and soaking in the mild spring air made for a truly peaceful evening wind-down.

Cheers!

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Easter: Hope in the Midst of Battle

The Easter Sequence - Victimæ paschali laudes

Christians, to the Paschal Victim

Offer your thankful praises!

A Lamb the sheep redeems;

Christ, who only is sinless,

Reconciles sinners to the Father.

Death and life have contended in that combat stupendous:

The Prince of life, who died, reigns immortal.

Speak, Mary, declaring

What you saw, wayfaring.

“The tomb of Christ, who is living,

The glory of Jesus’ resurrection;

bright angels attesting,

The shroud and napkin resting.

Yes, Christ my hope is arisen;

to Galilee he goes before you.”

Christ indeed from death is risen, our new life obtaining.

Have mercy, victor King, ever reigning!

Amen. Alleluia.

"He is not here."

With those words, spoken by the messenger of God, the reality of the Resurrection was revealed to the world. The empty tomb proclaims that death and sin have been conquered. Every time I reflect on the Resurrection, I’m struck by the awe the women at the tomb must have felt that morning — confusion, fear, and overwhelming joy. I also wonder what went through the minds of those who persecuted Him. 

And yet, even in the light of the Resurrection, the Prince of Darkness continues his work in this world. His followers — willing or unwitting — carry out his will by twisting truth, sowing confusion, and offering false promises. Evil is repackaged as good; deception cloaked in virtue. As the enemy works to blur the lines, we see morality mocked and genuine love labeled as hate. Through relentless attacks on our faith, our freedoms, and the sanctity of life, we witness the spiritual battle that still rages.

But today, we celebrate the fulfillment of Our Lord’s promise. On this most glorious day, our fears are vanquished and our hearts are lifted. The Resurrection reminds us that the ultimate war between good and evil has already been won. For three days, it seemed like Satan had triumphed — but three days are nothing compared to eternity. Easter is our strength and our hope. It empowers us to persevere through trials, resist temptation, and stand firm in the face of persecution.

So today, we rejoice. Easter is the fulfillment of Christ’s promise of eternal life. It is the triumph of good over evil. Easter calls us to live with courage, to remain vigilant, and never to surrender to darkness.

Wishing you a blessed and joy-filled Easter. May the light and joy of the Resurrection remain in your heart all year long.

Happy Easter!

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Springtime Pairing: La Historia E-III and Heaven Hill Wheated Bourbon

Whew! What a week (and a half) it’s been! The renovation of our screen porch and deck is underway. That means people are now walking around just outside our kitchen door, and the house echoes with the sounds of hammering and construction. But when we finally sit down for dinner in the evening after the crew has packed up, the peacefulness is downright palpable. Despite the current disruption, the upgraded space is sure to be well worth it. The screen porch is being transformed into a three-season room, which will make it much more comfortable for cigar smoking in the cooler months.

Speaking of cool weather, temperatures dropped sharply over the past week. With the porch out of commission and the heaters already put away, I haven't spent much time outside. But by Friday, the warm weather had returned, and according to the 10-day forecast, it looks like it’s here to stay — at least for a while. With construction dominating the backyard, I decided to enjoy a smoke on the front porch, a seldom-used part of our home.

For the evening’s smoke, I chose the E.P. Carrillo La Historia E-III, which has been resting in my humidor since early December. After four months, it was undoubtably more than ready to be enjoyed. I paired it with Heaven Hill Grain to Glass Wheated Bourbon, a rich counterpart for the cigar.

Right away, the La Historia E-III felt light in the hand — surprisingly so. It had a soft, slightly under-packed feel. The Mexican San Andrés wrapper was rugged, with light chocolate mottling over a darker base. A few folds and wrinkles showed in the box-pressed body, giving it a bit of a rustic look, as if it hadn’t quite filled out the mold during pressing. The cigar measures 6 7/8 x 54, with an Ecuadorian binder and Nicaraguan fillers completing the blend.

As expected, the initial draw was open and airy. While E.P. Carrillo cigars typically perform well, I had some early doubts about this one based on the draw alone.

But those doubts were short-lived. From the first light, robust notes of bitter cocoa and coffee came forward. As the cigar developed, I picked up more dark chocolate and even a bit of espresso bitterness. A touch of mixed nuts joined the profile, adding depth. By the second half, a subtle underlying sweetness lingered at the back of my throat.

To my delight, the draw tightened slightly as the cigar warmed, and smoke production became thick and flavorful. The rich, dark flavor profile made for a full-bodied experience overall.

Despite the good smoke output later on, the cigar inexplicably went out on two occasions and needed to be relit. The burn line was wavy but never to the point that it needed correction.

Heaven Hill’s Grain to Glass Wheated Bourbon is made with a mash bill of 52% corn, 35% wheat, and 13% malted barley. The corn, grown in Central Kentucky, is a high-starch variety selected specifically for this release. Bottled at 121 proof and aged for six years, this bourbon promises an exciting experience.

Even on the breezy porch, aromas of vanilla, walnut, oak, and a gentle white fruit sweetness wafted from the glass. A deeper sniff brought the telltale heat of the high proof.

The flavor profile is just as complex — vanilla, oak, nuts, molasses, apple, and pear emerged at different moments while sipping. The finish is sweet and long, with a lingering white pepper tingle on the palate.

The complexity of both the La Historia E-III and the Grain to Glass Wheated Bourbon made for an especially rewarding pairing. Each offered deep, evolving flavors and long, satisfying finishes. They complemented each other beautifully, creating a rich and memorable tasting experience.

The smoke lasted an unexpected hour and forty minutes, far exceeding what I’d anticipated from such a featherweight stick. Enjoying the quiet, the sun and a gentle breeze in a short-sleeved shirt is hopefully a sign of more beautiful weather to come.

Cheers!

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Good Friday: Limbo

A 3:00 thought for Good Friday.

The ancient greyness shifted suddenly and thinned like mist upon the moors before a wind.

An old, old prophet lifted a shining face and said:

“He will be coming soon. The Son of God is dead; He died this afternoon.”

A murmurous excitement stirred all souls. They wondered if they dreamed

save one old man who seemed not even to have heard.

And Moses, standing, hushed them all to ask if any had a welcome song prepared.

If not, would David take the task?

And if they cared could not the three young children sing the Benedicite,

the canticle of praise they made when God kept them from perishing in the fiery blaze?

A breath of spring surprised them, stilling Moses’ words.

No one could speak, remembering the first fresh flowers, the little singing birds.

Still others thought of fields new ploughed or apple trees all blossom-boughed.

Or some, the way a dried bed fills with water laughing down green hills.

The fisherfolk dreamed of the foam on bright blue seas.

The one old man who had not stirred remembered home.

And there He was, splendid as the morning sun and fair as only God is fair.

And they, confused with joy, knelt to adore

Seeing that He wore five crimson stars He never had before.

No canticle at all was sung. None toned a psalm, or raised a greeting song,

A silent man alone of all that throng found tongue — not any other.

Close to His heart when the embrace was done, old Joseph said,

“How is Your Mother, How is Your Mother, Son?”

-- Sister Mary Ada

I know I share this every year on Good Friday. I find the reflection very moving and it hits me right in the feels every time.

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The Algonquin Cocktail

There was some leftover pineapple juice in the house this weekend from making a pork tenderloin marinade. Since it’s not a juice I’d normally drink on its own, I wondered if it could find a place in our Sunday afternoon cocktails.

Most classic cocktails that feature pineapple juice lean toward rum or tequila — piña coladas, margaritas, mojitos, and the like. But the Algonquin stands apart as a whiskey-based drink. Named after the Algonquin Hotel in New York City, this three-ingredient cocktail is built around rye whiskey.

The Algonquin

• 1 1/2 oz Rye Whiskey
• 3/4 oz Dry Vermouth
• 3/4 oz Pineapple Juice

Add all ingredients to a cocktail shaker filled with ice. Shake well and strain into a chilled cocktail glass.

For our version, I used Bulleit 12-Year Rye (the Algonquin Hotel uses WhistlePig Rye according to their website). The aroma from the glass was pineapple-forward, as expected. On the palate, the rye’s spice cut through, but pineapple remained the dominant note. The drink was slightly bitter, light in body, and overall, quite refreshing.

I enjoyed the Algonquin, though I felt it was missing a little something for my taste. As I sipped, I couldn’t help but wonder if a dash of orange bitters might brighten things up. While the classic recipe sticks to just three ingredients, further digging revealed variations that include orange or Peychaud’s bitters, lime juice, or even a touch of simple syrup.

It’s certainly a cocktail worth experimenting with further.

Cheers!

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