Into the Dark: Beer, Cigar, and Black Friday

It had been almost two weeks since I’d enjoyed a cigar. Between day trips, weekend travel, holiday prep, and time with family, I hadn’t found a moment to sit down for a proper, relaxing smoke. I’m not one to light a cigar just because — for me, a cigar is an intentional pause to sit, unwind, and appreciate the craftsmanship.

While the family binged on football, I slipped away for an afternoon smoke. It was cold and windy outside, but the enclosed screened porch offered welcome shelter. And since it was “Black Friday,” I went with the theme and grabbed two dark companions: a Micallef Black and a Winter Storm from Heavy Seas Brewing. That’s a far better way to mark the day after Thanksgiving than chasing supposed deals at the mall.

Winter Storm “Category 5 Ale” is a seasonal ESB (Extra Special Bitter) from the Baltimore brewery, a longtime favorite of mine going back to its Clipper City days. The label has changed over the years, but the beer remains the same.

At 7.5% ABV, the malt-forward ale shows rich caramel-toffee and dark fruit notes, balanced by a subtle pine and herbal hop presence. It’s thoroughly enjoyable. In years past I’d buy it by the case to age into the summer — or even for far-future drinking — but this year’s stash will likely be enjoyed fresh.

The Micallef Black I chose was the 5” x 52 Robusto. A Mexican San Andrés wrapper encases an Ecuadorian Habano binder with Nicaraguan fillers. The dark, oily wrapper and gold-on-black band make for an irresistible presentation. The Black is full-bodied, opening with earth, cocoa, and pepper. As it warmed up, I picked up dark chocolate, roasted coffee, and a touch of sweetness. Construction was excellent, with a clean burn and thick, flavorful smoke.

I actually selected the Micallef Black before considering the pairing, but the combination turned out beautifully. The bold, dark-leaning profiles played off each other well. The beer’s slight sweetness and dark fruit lifted the chocolate and sweeter tones in the cigar, while the cigar’s pepper and earth kept the ale from drifting too sweet. A satisfying match all around.

Outside, the day hinted at winter — 38° with a windchill of 26°, though sunny. Inside the porch, with the portable heaters on low, it was a comfortable 64°. Add some jazz from the speaker, a good book in my lap, and a cigar in hand, and it made for a remarkably pleasant afternoon escape before heading back inside to resume the holiday feasting.

Cheers!