Thanksgiving Traditions: A Smoke, a Sip, and a Sweet Dilemma

It’s a tradition: after enjoying the Thanksgiving feast, I step outside for a cigar while the family gathers around the TV for football. This year was no different. I had initially set aside a robust smoke for the occasion, but when I noticed an unfinished bottle of Prosecco on the table, I decided it shouldn’t go to waste. To complement the fruity, sweet libation, I opted for a milder cigar. Enter the Rocky Patel Number 6.

The Rocky Patel Number 6 is a 6 x 52 Toro, featuring an oily Honduran Corojo wrapper over a Honduran binder and a filler blend of Honduran and Nicaraguan tobaccos. It’s an unusually mild offering from Rocky Patel and a departure from my typical preference for bolder cigars. I had these in my humidor mainly for friends who favor milder smokes. The flavor profile showcases a gentle sweetness, creamy coffee, and classic tobacco notes, accented by a hint of citrus and a touch of white pepper. As the cigar progresses, the mild pepper becomes slightly more prominent, leaving a subtle spice on the palate. Beyond that, the flavor remains consistent throughout. After three months of resting in my humidor, the cigar burned evenly and performed admirably, even in the cold evening air.

Paired with the Prosecco, the experience was a mixed bag. The sparkling wine’s sweetness and effervescence tended to overpower the cigar’s delicate flavors. I found myself abstaining from sips for long stretches to allow the Number 6’s subtle notes to shine through and linger. While both the cigar and the Prosecco were enjoyable in their own right, they didn’t shine as a pairing.

The evening was crisp and chilly, with gusty winds that added an extra bite to the air. I resorted to running the patio heaters and bundling up under my hooded sweatshirt to keep the experience comfortable. After a pleasant 90-minute smoke, I headed back inside, faced with one last decision for the night: pumpkin or apple pie? Or maybe both?

 
Cheers!

Thanksgiving Blessings

Have A Happy Thanksgiving! I wish you a day filled with family, friends, and fond memories. May God bless your life with His gifts today and everyday.

Lá Altaithe Sona Daoibh!

A Thanksgiving Tradition

I repost this just about every year. And it's still funny. 

They just don't do TV like that any more.

"As God is my witness, I thought turkeys could fly."

Happy Thanksgiving!

Cheers!

An Autumn Afternoon: Oliva Serie V, Coffee, and an Unexpected Guest

The mid-week crisp fall weather was too good to pass up—60 degrees and sunny. I brewed a large mug of hot, black coffee, grabbed an Oliva Serie V Lancero from the humidor, and headed to the deck with a good book. 

The whole Oliva Serie V lineup never disappoints and the cigars consistently pair well with black coffee. Sporting a Habano Sun Grown wrapper, the 7 x38 stick makes a nice presentation. The Nicaraguan binder and filler tobacco blend includes Jalapa Valley Ligero for some extra robustness. A full flavor palate of cocoa, coffee, roasted nuts, and cedar complete the profile

This stick had been hiding in the humidor nearly 18 months. It retained a slightly oily shine, and burned wonderfully. It had been a while since I had smoked any cigar in a Lancero format, and I initially started off drawing on it a bit too hard, which created some bitterness. Adjusting my draw, but maintaining enough frequency to keep a good burn going corrected that issue. The Serie V Lancero gave a 65 minute smoke, enough time to pour a second cup of coffee.

Midway through the smoke a beautiful doe came out of the woods to dine on the many acorns fallen in the grass. She had been feasting for 30 minutes and was still there when I headed inside. She paid me little mind but did look up and stare at me occasionally. The deer are abundant here but it's unusual to see them stay in the open so long. She was welcome to dine as long as she desired, that's a few less acorns I need to rake.

A slight chill came upon the porch as the sun started dipping below the trees, timed perfectly with the end of the smoke. 

Cheers!

A Sunday Smoke and Sip: Bishops Blend Cigar and a Classic Negroni

This past Sunday brought an unexpected treat: 60-degree weather and calm skies—perfect for a little deck time. As the afternoon sun began its descent, I prepared two Negronis, grabbed a favorite cigar, and joined my wife for a pleasant hour of conversation and indulgence.

Frequently mentioned here, the Bishops Blend is a regular resident in my humidor, offering a robust smoking experience. I still have some from past years' releases carefully aging in my humidor, This particular cigar, from the 2024 release, had been resting since July. While I’ve tried every the cigar in all its vitolas, the 5 x 48 Robusto remains my favorite.

Crafted with an oily Ecuadorian Maduro wrapper, Ecuadorian Habano binder, and a mix of Nicaraguan and Pennsylvania Broadleaf fillers, the Bishops Blend is both visually appealing and a flavorful. The well-crafted cigar features a pigtail cap and closed foot. 

If you choose to draw on the cigar as you first put the flame to the closed foot of the Bishops Blend you can get a burst of the rich tobacco and earthiness flavor of the Ecuadorian Maduro wrapper before the rest of the leaves begin to burn. After years of enjoying this cigar, I now usually just toast it traditionally to dive straight into its rich, complex flavors.

Lighting this cigar reveals a symphony of flavors. The initial draw highlights rich tobacco and earthy tones from the wrapper, followed by a complex blend of dark coffee, cocoa, and dark fruit. Subtle sweetness, reminiscent of molasses, weaves through the profile, complemented by a moderate peppery spice.

As the smoke progresses, notes of espresso and meaty char emerge, rounding out the bold flavor pallet. 

Though bourbon is my usual go-to with cigars, the classic Negroni—a mix of gin, Campari, and sweet vermouth—pairs exceptionally well with the Bishops Blend. The drink’s sweet, bitter, and herbal notes highlight the cigar’s dark fruit flavors while standing up to its bold profile.

The Bishops Blend provided just under an hour of enjoyment, perfectly complemented by the Negroni. As the sun dipped below the trees and the temperature dropped, we headed inside, wrapping up a pleasant afternoon of flavors and good company.

I cherish the unexpected moments like these—when a fine cigar, a flavorful cocktail, and the right weather come together. Such times will be less frequent in the coming winter months. making the afternoon all the more special.

Cheers!

Between the Heaters: A Liga Privada T52 and Pikesville Rye Pairing

Even in retirement, Friday evenings hold a special excitement—they mark the perfect time to unwind. This week, I started the weekend as I often do: savoring a good cigar, a delicious whiskey, and blues music on the screened porch. The cool evening air carried a hint of the strong afternoon winds, but my two propane heaters kept the chill at bay.

Earlier in the day, I browsed my humidor in anticipation, selecting the Liga Privada T52 for the evening’s smoke. For the pairing, I chose the nearly empty bottle of Pikesville Rye—a whiskey I had been reluctant to finish, knowing how rare it is to find in Virginia. I shared one of the last pours with my wife, who reminded me we’d soon be traveling to other states where I might find another bottle to replenish my stock.

Pikesville Rye is a throwback to the Maryland Rye of pre-prohibition days. Pikesville Rye was produced in Maryland as far back as the 1890's. Though surviving that dark time of oppressive alcohol regulation, it is no longer produced in Maryland. The historical recipe is now made in Kentucky by Heaven Hill. The whiskey is aged for six years and bottled at 110 proof. The straight rye shines a brilliant copper color in the glass. Notes of caramel, honey, and vanilla waft from the glencairn glass, backed by rye spice and a hint of dark cherry.

Sipping brings a pleasant warmth to the mouth. Sweet from caramel and butterscotch start things off. Soon black pepper and cinnamon join in. The rye spiciness lingers, with black pepper, cinnamon, and nutmeg contributing to a warm finish.

After a few sips of the Pikesville Rye, I turned my attention to the Liga Privada T52 from Drew Estate. The 6 x 52 Toro is cloaked in a beautifully mottled stalk-cut Habano Oscuro wrapper. This wrapper is produced by cutting the entire plant and hanging it intact to cure. This method allows the leaves to absorb more nutrients and oils, resulting in a rich flavor profile. A Brazilian Mata Fina binder and Nicaraguan and Honduran tobaccos complete the blend.

The smoke starts off with notes of black pepper, roasted nuts, and black coffee. As the cigar progresses a mild sweetness comes in, joined by hints of espresso. The robust spice of the start backs off slightly but remains to the finish along with hints of molasses and cocoa. The cigar, which had been resting in my humidor for three months, had a slightly tight draw but burned evenly, although it did require the occasional triple puff, and one relight, over the one hour and fifty minute smoking time.

The sweet rye spice of the Pikesville Rye was a fitting pairing for the robust Liga Privada T52. Even after taking a puff from the cigar, the flavorful finish of the rye remained on the palate.

My cozy spot between the heaters created the perfect setting for an evening of flavorful smoke and drink. I can’t wait to do it again.

Cheers!

Remembering Blessed Miguel Pro

This was originally posted November 23, 2013, and shared nearly annually on this date. This is not ancient history and must not be forgotten. 

November 23 is the Feast Day of Blessed Miguel Pro. Born on January 13, 1891, in Guadalupe, Mexico, Miguel Pro was ordained a Jesuit priest in Belgium in 1925. He returned to his home country in 1926, in the midst of that country's Cristeros War. After being falsely accused of an attempted bombing, Father Pro was executed by government forces without trial. 

Blessed Miguel Pro's final request was to be allowed to pray to his heavenly Father.

After which he refused a blindfold and faced the firing squad bravely, proclaiming ¡Viva Cristo Rey!

Father Pro's executioners initially failed at their task, and the deed was finished at point blank range.

I am saddened, but hardly surprised, at the ignorance of the American public regarding the persecution of Catholics, and of the Cristero War that took place in Mexico in 1926 through 1929. Some 250,000 people lost their lives in a persecution that was supported by the government of the United States with both funds and air support. Given the ever-growing intolerance towards Christians, especially Catholics, in the United States, we would do well to remember.

Christ the King, by the intercession of Blessed Miguel Pro, I beg you to answer my prayers. Give me the grace and the strength necessary to follow your heroic example and to live my Catholic faith in spite of all temptations and adversities. Amen.

Images from Wikipedia.

Midweek Musings: Flavors of the All Saints St. Francis and Old Grand-Dad

The midweek “hump day” brought an unseasonably cool evening, a perfect opportunity to unwind on the back porch after dinner. For the occasion, I selected the All Saints St. Francis cigar—a 5 1/2 x 50 box-pressed stick wrapped in a luxurious Ecuadorian Oscuro leaf over a Nicaraguan binder and fillers. As this was my first time smoking this particular cigar, I was eager to try it, especially since it’s crafted at the Rocky Patel Tavicusa factory in Nicaragua, where many of my favorite cigars originate.

Right from the start, the cigar delivered rich notes of black coffee, chocolate, and black pepper. Throughout the smoke, hints of salt and subtle sweetness occasionally emerged, adding complexity. After resting in my humidor for about 10 weeks, the cigar burned evenly, though smoke output was inconsistent at times. I found myself needing to double or triple puff occasionally to maintain a fuller draw. Toward the finish, the coffee notes shifted to bitter espresso, while the spice intensified, leaving a lingering black pepper tingle on my lips.

The cigar burned relatively quickly, lasting around 50 minutes—a pace likely influenced by the extra puffing. I enjoyed it so much that I smoked it down to the nub. Surprisingly, the smoke remained cool even when the cigar was almost too small to hold.

To pair with the cigar, I poured a glass of Old Grand-Dad 114 bourbon. This 114-proof high-rye whiskey is highly aromatic, with spicy rye and brown sugar on the nose, with a noticeable alcohol warmth. On the palate, the bourbon delivers a delightful mix of brown sugar and caramel sweetness, complemented by rye and cinnamon spice that lingers beautifully.

At just $30 a bottle, Old Grand-Dad 114 offers exceptional flavor at a budget-friendly price. It paired wonderfully with the bold flavors of the All Saints St. Francis. The cigar and bourbon complemented each other without overpowering, each retaining its distinct character.

Typically, I enjoy music while smoking on the deck, but this evening, I chose to listen to the natural chorus of tree frogs in full song after the warm day. The peaceful backdrop made the experience even more enjoyable. As the warmer evenings of the season become less frequent, this one was truly memorable.

Cheers!

Cold Weather Comfort: Elijah Craig 18 and a Cigar

And so it begins — cold weather smoking. When the colder weather settles in, it ways takes some extra effort to get outside to enjoy a cigar. I think "Do I really want to do this?" The answer is of course "yes" so I grab a jacket, fire up the propane heater, and go out. Once I'm settled in it's usually not that bad, and even pleasant. It's just that initial seasonal change that takes getting used to. In a few weeks, I won't think twice.

This evening I poured tastes of several whiskies from my shelves to decide what I felt like enjoying. I settled on the Elijah Craig 18 Year Old Single Barrel. This is a bottle I've been nursing for a couple years. It's an excellent pour, though a somewhat pricey one.

The 90 proof bourbon emits a delightfully rich aroma of honey, vanilla, and citrus. Those flavors transfer to the palate. The overall taste is cinnamon, a sweet fruit, with vanilla and caramel thrown in. I retrospect it reminds me of an apple pie. The sweet finish is moderately long with a lingering oaky dryness.

With the bourbon decided, it was time to choose the cigar to accompany it. I decided to light up a Gurkha Cellar Reserve Limitada that had been sitting in my humidor since July. (Ah, thoughts of warmer days.) Gurkha is not a brand I've smoked much, but was interested in what the Cellar Reserve held in store.

The 6 x 58 Perfecto has a dark brown Brazilian Arapiraca Maduro wrapper that's oily in appearance. The Dominican filler and binder leaves have been aged for 15 years. A tight pigtail finishes the cap. The smoke started off medium bodied with leather, cocoa, and roasted notes. The flavors and body remained consistent throughout. Admittedly I was hoping for a bit more boldness for the evening. The burn was excellent, however I did let the cigar go out once when I set it down and zoned out to the music I was listening to. Overall, the Gurkha Cellar Reserve Limitada was a flavorful, though milder than expected, smoke.

The delicious bourbon, the smoke, and bit of dark chocolate thrown in, made for a most pleasant evening. Despite the openness of the screen porch, the propane heater at my side kept the chill away. As the temperatures drop, I look forward to trying new pairings to help warm the cold nights.

Cheers!

A Perfect Pairing for a Mild Fall Evening: Southern Draw and Wilderness Trail Bourbon

Another fall weekend, another road trip. This time we were headed to Blacksburg to catch the VA Tech football game. In Southwest Virginia, nights can get chilly this time of year, but Friday evening’s mild weather let me comfortably enjoy a cigar on the hotel patio after dinner.

I had packed a travel humidor with a selection of cigars for the evening and the next day's tailgate activities. For this evening, I lit a Southern Draw Manzanita and poured a glass of Wilderness Trail Bottled in Bond Bourbon.

Southern Draw Manzanita is a cigar that consistently pairs well with bourbon. This 6x52 Toro, features a reddish-brown Habano wrapper encasing a Habano binder and Corojo and Ligero fillers. I was surprised this one has been resting in my humidor for 7 months. A purchased a 5 pack in April and surprisingly had not smoked them all yet.

The Manzanita produces a rich smoke with deep notes of earth and leather, complemented by bold dark chocolate and cedar. A touch of black pepper intensifies as the cigar progresses. The combination of bitter chocolate and spice makes for a satisfying flavor combination when enjoyed with a robust bourbon.

The Wilderness Trail Bottled in Bond Bourbon I had put into my travel flask was quite enjoyable with the Southern Draw Manzanita. This wheated bourbon is aged five to six years. The aroma is rich with vanilla and caramel with just a hint of alcohol. The flavor profile combines sweet vanilla and caramel with a touch of oak, while a moderate kick of cinnamon and pepper adds spice to the finish. It's a good bourbon for a full bodied cigar.

As in past visits, the hotel parking lot was bustling with traffic from the neighboring restaurants, headlights constantly cutting through the night. Yet, despite the distractions, the evening was relaxing and a welcome way to unwind after an afternoon of busy interstate driving.

Cheers!

An 80° Fall Sunset: Still Austin Bourbon and Rocky Patel Anniversary Pairing

With the days getting shorter, I’m drawn to the deck for an after-dinner sip and smoke when an early sunset meets unseasonably warm weather. I was grateful for just such an evening this week.

Still Austin Single Barrel Cask Strength Bourbon was my choice for the evening. This is a bottle I picked up during our summer travels and have only poured it a few times, but it's one I truly enjoy. The rich aroma of brown sugar and dark fruit fills the glass, with its 116 proof clearly evident on the nose.

Sipping it brings a pleasant warmth and spice, complemented by complex notes of raisins, plum, caramel, molasses, cinnamon, and a touch of sweet maple. Each time I pour this one, I am surprised to remember that it bears just a two year age statement. The bourbon is smooth and the rich flavor profile, along with a touch of heat, lingers on the palate.

For my cigar, I selected a Rocky Patel 15th Anniversary Robusto. This 5x50 soft box-pressed cigar features an Ecuadorian Habano wrapper over Nicaraguan binder and filler tobaccos. It had only been resting in my humidor for about four weeks, but the burn and flavor were spot-on. The smoke started off creamy and sweet, gradually developing rich notes of dark fruit and chocolate. Toward the end, a hint of cinnamon spice emerged, adding even more depth.

Combined with the unusual 80° temperature, the cigar and bourbon made for a delightful after dinner repast. As the sun set I couldn't help but feel completely "unburdened." 

Cheers!

An Evening of Flavor: Skipper’s Select Bourbon and Crowned Heads Le Carême

I picked up a bottle of J. H. Bards Skipper's Select Toasted Barrel Bourbon while visiting the tasting room a couple months ago. I had nearly forgotten about it until now but on a very pleasant Halloween evening, I decided to open it. Trick or Treating is a non-event the last few years in our neighborhood, so I knew I wouldn't be interrupted. I looked forward to a relaxing evening on the deck.

Named after Skipper, the cannon that fires with every VA Tech Hokies football score in Lane Stadium, this release supports a great cause, the Triumph NIL fund for VT athletes. I was hopeful the whiskey would live up to the occasion.

The aroma brings the classic caramel and vanilla notes that bourbon lovers expect, but the toasted barrel aging adds a mild, satisfying char that deepens each sip. Overall the flavor is smooth, sweet caramel and fruit. The wood char finish is quite pleasant. The finish is smooth and short lived. It's a very pleasant and enjoyable sipper at a mild 93 proof.

For the cigar, I selected my last Crowned Heads Le Carême 2021 Limited Edition Belicosos Finos. It had been aging in my humidor for over three years, making this final smoke bittersweet. 

The well-aged cigar was exceptionally enjoyable. The cigar burned beautifully, releasing rich, flavorful smoke. The creamy chocolate and cedar flavors of the Le Carême paired wonderfully with the bourbon’s caramel and char notes. Beside the Crowned Head La Carême being one of my favorite cigars, I believe the Skipper's Select Toast Barrel Finish just might be my favorite J. H. Bards spirit yet.

While enjoying the Le Carême Limited Edition I had a flashback to the very first one of these I smoked from the box I had purchased on preorder. We were on a getaway to a cabin in southwest Virginia and enjoyed it around the fire. I thought it was interesting how that memory popped into mind, and how distinct it was. It’s amazing how a well-aged cigar and a good bourbon can bring back the best memories. 

Here’s to more evenings like this one.

Cheers!

Weekend Escape: Family, Football, and Bourbon

We escaped for a weekend in Blacksburg, VA, to catch another Virginia Tech football game. It was also a chance to spend time with our son and daughter in-law who also came to town for the weekend. The weather in southwest Virginia was unexpectedly pleasant, and after a filling dinner of pizza and beer, I settled on one of the hotel’s patios to savor my evening repast. Although the prominent signs announced, “This is a Non-Smoking Hotel,” I’ve noticed that the same single ashtray drifts between the outdoor seating areas, typically bearing the remnants of a cigar.

Knowing that the lobby bar’s selection of distilled beverages and beer tends to be disappointing, I typically bring along a flask with something to enjoy. This time, I paired Barrel Mizunara Cask Finish Bourbon with a Bishop’s Blend cigar by Black Label Trading Company.

The Barrel Mizunara Cask Finish Bourbon opens with a warm oak and butterscotch aroma. The golden liquid glistens under the lights in the parking lot. With the first sip, rich notes of vanilla and butterscotch unfold, balanced by hints of dark cherries, dry nuts, and a touch of oak. There’s a brief cinnamon heat on the palate, but it quickly mellows, blending seamlessly into a smooth, lingering finish. The flavors of the finished bourbon meld very nicely with the roasted coffer boldness of the Bishops Blend cigar.

The evening was cool, but the nearby lights and parking lot offered enough warmth—no jacket required. The parking lot bustled with people arriving for the weekend, but otherwise I was alone with my thoughts. My only gripe? The driver who pulled into a nearby spot, with his headlights glaring right into my face, cutting through my peaceful setting briefly, but I was too relaxed to let it spoil the moment. A strategically propped seat cushion on the railing helped block most of the annoyance. After 20 minutes, he eventually backed out and left, never even stepping out of his car. If I were a bit more paranoid…

After a restful evening unwinding on the patio, Saturday brought a different pace as we geared up for the noon kickoff against Georgia Tech. The early start meant the tailgating activities were limited to some morning sandwiches before heading into the stadium. Alas there was no time for a cigar.

The game ended in our favor, with the Hokies pulling off a solid win. Afterward, we celebrated over dinner at a local Mexican restaurant, savoring the food and enjoying sightings of some of the players. When we got back to the hotel, my family, tired from the long day, headed straight to their rooms. I wasn’t quite ready to call it a night, so I took the opportunity to unwind on the patio and finally enjoy that smoke.

For this evening’s cigar, I chose an AJ Fernandez Dias de Gloria Brazil, a 5 1/2 x 54 box-pressed Robusto. This cigar has a Brazilian Mata Fina maduro wrapper with a Nicaraguan binder and filler. The wrapper feels slightly dry and rough to the touch, likely from having been in my humidor for just four weeks. I’d tried one recently while in Italy, and it felt a little dry then too, though the draw and burn were still excellent. This one burned quickly but evenly, giving just enough smoking time to relax into the evening.

The flavor profile started with earthy notes and a subtle sweetness of coffee, which deepened into layers of milk chocolate and caramel. As the cigar progressed, the flavors shifted toward darker, roasted coffee with a hint of spice, adding complexity to the smoke. Paired with Barrel Mizunara Finished Bourbon, it wasn’t quite as spot-on as the previous night’s selection, but I still savored every sip—until the flask ran dry, that is.

All in all, it was a weekend to remember — perfect weather, an exciting win, plenty of good food, and, best of all, time spent with family. A tiring weekend with just the right balance of relaxation and celebration. 

Cheers!

Enjoying Cigars in Italy

We kicked off October with an exciting whirlwind trip to northern Italy, which explains the brief pause in posting. Our journey took us through Venice, Murano, Burano, Padua, Ravenna, Bologna, Modena, Parma, Pisa, Florence, Siena, and Milan. What a ride! While we’ve previously explored the southern regions of Italy, this northern adventure was a fresh and unforgettable experience. Italy is rich in history, culture, and religious landmarks, making it impossible to take it all in on a single trip. Besides soaking in the sights and indulging in the incredible food, I always look forward to the opportunity to enjoy a few cigars in an environment far more welcoming to this pastime than in the U.S.

I packed a couple of travel humidors with cigars from home, but I was also on the lookout for cigar shops, hoping to pick up some Cuban cigars I’d been eager to try. In Italy, you’ll frequently encounter tabaccherias, or “tabacchi” shops. These small stores are like convenience shops, offering everything from tobacco products to lottery tickets, train passes, and stamps. The most common cigars found there are dry-cured Italian cigars, like Toscano. Early on in the trip, I picked up a pack of Toscano Classico, an inexpensive yet richly flavored smoke that I always enjoy, whether in Italy or back home.

My first chance to enjoy a cigar on this trip came in Venice. After a gondola ride through the canals on a sunny morning, we were hit with torrential rains in the afternoon. But during a brief break in the downpour, I seized the moment, lit up a Toscano, and enjoyed a relaxing stroll. I rarely smoke while walking at home, but in Italy, it’s a simple pleasure that feels perfectly natural.

Amidst all the sightseeing, and despite the frequent rain showers, I still found moments to enjoy a cigar and a drink at street-side cafés. After a fascinating visit to the Parmigiano Reggiano and Prosciutto factories in Parma, we stopped at a café in the heart of the city for some afternoon refreshments. It was the perfect opportunity to light up another Toscano Classico, while savoring a generously sized Negroni and a delicious pastry.

With the combination of busy schedules and unpredictable weather, it wasn’t always easy to find time to relax during the day. More often than not, I found those moments of peace after dinner, back at one of the hotels where we stayed.

For a late evening cigar I usually enjoyed one of the cigars I had brought from home, such as the AJ Fernandez Dias de Gloria Brazil Robusto shown above. The Bira Messina Cristalli di Sale purchased at the hotel bar was refreshing, even if it does come from an Italian Heineken brewery.

We stayed four nights at a very nice hotel in Montecantini. They had a large covered patio with plenty of seating. Unfortunately the hotel bar was not open every night — the service schedule seemed to be irregular.

On the first evening at the hotel, I took advantage of the clear night to enjoy a Perdomo Reserve 10th Anniversary Sun Grown Robusto I had packed from home. Alas, the bar was closed. 

It was mid-trip, while visiting Florence, that I came across the Tabaccheria San Giovanni Di Simonetti Mauro in the square near the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore. The well-reviewed shop had a fairly sizable selection of premium cigars, both the usual Nicaraguan and Dominican brands, as well as some Cubans. I picked up a few moderately priced Partagas Serie D No. 4.

Located in that same square was, of all things, an Irish pub. Of course we stopped in for a quick beer. 

The next evening, the hotel bar open, I shared a Partagas with a fellow traveler and we enjoyed the cigars, again with Negronis, before dinner. It was raining, so the covered patio was welcome.

I was pleasantly surprised by the Partagas Serie D. I did not take note of the date on the box at the store, so had no idea if the cigars' age. They seemed to be in good shape and showed no signs of cracking or damage. The flavor profile, as with all the (limited) Cuban cigars I've smoked, was on the mild side. The flavor had a sweet, cream and vanilla profile. There was a hint of cinnamon present but overall it was a quite mild smoke. 

The trip itinerary was filled with much more than cigars obviously. As always, there was copious delicious food and drink to be enjoyed. We moved around a lot, taking in numerous northern Italian cities. I had hoped to visit a store with a full selection of Cuban cigars. It was not until our last day, while in Milan, that I came across Noli Fumatori in the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II. I did only some window shopping as there would be no time to consume any purchases before flying home.

The acceptance of personal choices in Italy, and Europe as a whole, is a stark contrast to the judgmental attitude found in America, despite the well-established freedoms we profess and enjoy here. Cigarettes and "e-cigs" are the prevalent choices, but cigar smokers are seen frequently. After finishing one quick lunch during the trip, our server came by and placed an ashtray on the table, as if the after-meal smoke was expected. I compared that to the shocked reaction shown by one of my traveling companions when she saw the remnants of a previous evening's cigar in the ashtray on a hotel patio in the morning. (Most days the outdoor ashtrays were emptied very early in the morning, if not late at night.)

More cigars, and drinks, were enjoyed than documented here, most of the time I didn't bother trying to get a photo, and just enjoyed the moment.

It was another great trip — despite our Irish heritage we truly enjoy visiting Italy. It's still the only place to get a proper espresso! I have no doubt this trip, our third to the country, will not be our last. 

Cheers!

Rocky Patel A.L.R. 2, Again and Again

The Rocky Patel A.L.R. Second Edition is a cigar I find myself coming back to time and time again. The name stands for Aged, Limited, and Rare, though mentions of it in my musings are anything but rare. Over the years, I’ve enjoyed this cigar in several vitolas and with a variety of drinks. On a recent evening, I paired one with a glass of Sazerac Rye for a perfect wind-down.

The vitola for this smoke was a 6 1/2 x 52 Toro. It’s a box-pressed cigar, wrapped in a rich, dark chocolate brown Mexican San Andrés wrapper. Underneath, you’ll find a Nicaraguan binder and filler made up of Nicaraguan tobaccos from Estelí and Jalapa. Most of the cigar’s beauty is hidden behind a large informational band and a shiny, embossed gold label. This particular stick had been aging in my humidor for nearly two years.

As for the pairing, I opted for Sazerac Rye. It’s a go-to for cocktails in my house, but since the bottle was nearly empty, I decided to finish it off with the smoke. Sazerac Rye is an easy-drinking 90-proof whiskey, reportedly aged for around six years, though the bottle lacks an official age statement. It offers flavors of sweet, dark fruit, caramel, and vanilla, with a finish full of rye spice, char, and a touch of cinnamon.

The aged A.L.R. cigar burned beautifully. Espresso, cocoa, and roasted nuts dominated the flavor profile, with a bit of the signature cedar spice still present, though mellowed by time. The nearly two-hour smoking experience paired wonderfully with the Sazerac Rye, making for a relaxing and flavorful evening.

Cheers!

Rocky Patel DBS With Larceny Barrel Proof

I’d been eagerly waiting for a few months to try the Rocky Patel DBS. After letting it rest for a few months in the humidor, I couldn’t hold off any longer and decided to light it up on a Friday evening, pairing it with a glass of Larceny Barrel Proof Bourbon.

The 5x50 Robusto has a distinctive appearance, decked out with three separate cigar bands—a bit of the usual “glitz” you’d expect from Rocky Patel. While it’s not as over-the-top as the A.L.R. 2, the deep brown Mexican San Andrés wrapper is still about half-covered by the bands.

The “DBS” stands for “Double Broadleaf Selection,” likely referring to the dual Nicaragua and Pennsylvania Broadleaf binders, or perhaps the Honduran and Nicaraguan Broadleaf fillers. From the start, I got a hit of black pepper that quickly mellowed into wood and earthy flavors, all complemented by a creamy sweetness on the finish. As the cigar progressed, cocoa and nuts joined the mix, making for a rich and evolving flavor profile. The draw was a little more resistant than I prefer, but there were no burn issues throughout.

For my pairing, I chose the Larceny Barrel Proof Bourbon, specifically the Batch B522 at 123.8 proof. When I first opened this bottle a couple of years ago, I found the proof a bit sharp but still enjoyable. While I personally prefer the newer Batch B523, the B522 offers flavors of brown sugar and cinnamon, with a hint of sweet bread. It finishes with warmth, pepper, and spice, and the bold flavors of the cigar helped to balance out the intensity of the alcohol.

Overall, the Rocky Patel DBS was a thoroughly enjoyable smoke. Despite its $20 price tag, I’d consider buying more for special occasions. It was a perfect companion for a laid-back fall evening.

Cheers!

Celebrating 17 Years of Musings

Today marks the 17th anniversary of this blog. It all began on a lazy afternoon, experimenting with Blogger. I was looking for a place to share my thoughts—and, occasionally, my rants—about the growing “craft beer” scene, especially in my local area and across the state. At the time, I traveled frequently to Denver, CO, where small breweries were thriving far more than in Virginia. But I had a feeling Virginia would soon catch up. The original title, Musings Over a Pint, caught the attention of fellow enthusiasts and small breweries alike.

Of course, no one lives by beer alone. Over time, my other interests found their way into the blog. Topics like shooting sports, and even faith and politics, began to sneak in. Unsurprisingly, that led to some hate mail, and I even earned a brief ban on Facebook—for reasons that were never fully explained. In 2008, as the blog evolved, the title shifted to Musings Over a Barrel to reflect the broader scope, including whiskey and cigars.

Nowadays, most of my posts focus on cigar and beverage pairings—usually whiskey or beer. Although cigars and bourbon appeared in earlier years, I’ve had more time and resources lately to dive deeper into those passions. Unfortunately, various factors have kept me from visiting the shooting range as often as I’d like, so that topic has taken a back seat for now. I’m hopeful that will change in the coming year.

The blog doesn’t have the readership it once did. I suspect part of that is the decline in personal blogs overall, along with the more niche and personal nature of my posts. The topics I cover can be polarizing, especially in today’s hyper-sensitive climate. I even had some cigar content removed by Blogger recently—though it was restored after an appeal—for allegedly violating their “Regulated Goods and Services policy.”

So, what’s next? Honestly, I write for myself more than anything. I enjoy looking back and revisiting the experiences recorded here. I don’t plan on stopping anytime soon. If others enjoy what they read, all the better. Not every experience becomes a full blog post, though; for more frequent updates, feel free to check out my mini-blog on Instagram.

Seventeen years is a long time, and so much has changed—not just with this blog, but with the world and life in general. While the frequency of my posts may vary depending on time and activities, I have no plans to stop sharing my musings anytime soon, for my enjoyment—and hopefully yours too.

Happy Blog Birthday to me!

Cheers!

Center of the Universe Oktoberfest and AVO Syncro Nicaragua Fogata

Our annual celebration of "all beers Oktoberfest" continued with beer, a cigar, and a fire. Despite a late afternoon temperature of 80°, it wasn't raining for a change, so we decided to get in the first fire of the season. Center of the Universe Oktoberfest Märzen and a AVO Syncro Nicaragua Fogata made for a wonderful pairing.

We have enjoyed the Center of the Universe Oktoberfest Märzen on a few occasions this season. The copper-hued beer has a thin, short-lived white head and a bread-like aroma. The flavor profile is malt forward, with biscuit and caramel notes. There's a hint of hop bitterness rounding out the sweet notes. This is an enjoyable Märzen that is as well done as some the "native" Oktoberfests.

The AVO Syncro Nicaragua Fogata was something I picked up a couple months ago on a whim. I've not smoked too many AVO releases but this one did intrigue me. The 6 x 54 Torpedo sports an Ecuadorian Habano 2000 Clara wrapper with a Mexican San Andrés binder underneath. The filler is a complex blend of Dominicana Yamasa viso, Dominican Piloto, Dominican San Vicente ligero, Nicaraguan Esteli ligero, Nicaraguan Condega viso, and Nicaraguan Ometepe tobaccos. With that many interesting leaves, not to mention syllables in the recipe, it's got to be good.

The Fogata kicks off with a bit of pepper as I expected from the binder variety. As the cigar heats up, the profile morphs into one featuring cedar, an interesting toasted caramel, and sweat cream. There's an also somewhat of a malty bread undertone. 

Strength falls to the high side of medium. This is a quite flavorful smoke that kept my interest all the way through — just like the first one I smoked recently. The flavor notes of the Oktoberfest beer and the cigar complimented one another very well.

Soon the fire, the cigar, the beers, were finished. It was a fun afternoon repast, enjoying one of the rare sunny days we've seen in the past couple weeks.

Cheers!

Maltese Brewing Oktoberfest Celebration

It's that time of the year when the local craft breweries put on their Oktoberfest celebrations. I haven't gone to many of them in recent years so was glad when our schedule made this one doable. I do have fond memories of the events held by Blue and Gray Brewing in years past. 

Last weekend we went over to Maltese Brewing (FB Link) for their Octoberfest event. Maltese recently relocated to a new, expanded location. Coincidently, they are now located in the same industrial complex where the long-gone, and greatly missed, Blue and Grey brewery and taproom was located. 

We arrived at the event early to take advantage of the breakfast menu. While simple, the meal of scrambled eggs, bratwurst, and pancakes was a tasty and a fun way to start the day. Of course, it was enjoyed with a pint of Maltese Oktoberfest Märzen.

After eating, we moved to an outside table to enjoy the pleasant weather. We had plans to attend another, non-beer event later in the afternoon but there was still time for another beer and a smoke. As we sat, the afternoon food trucks arrived and we debated perhaps staying for a quick lunch before leaving.

I enjoyed an Espinosa Knuckle Sandwich Maduro with the beer. This cigar is the result of a collaboration between chef and cigar lover Guy Fieri and Erik Espinosa. I've enjoyed this one in the past. The dark coffee, cocoa, dark fruit, and mild white pepper flavors make for a pleasant smoke.

After a bit, a couple of friends arrived to enjoy the festivities as well and we enjoyed catching up. It wasn't long before we were getting hungry again. We were having fun, so decided to just stay for the afternoon. Another beer, and a "german grilled hotdog" sandwich from one the food trucks capped off the now long afternoon.

It was a fortuitous and fun way to spend Saturday afternoon.

Cheers!

L'Atelier LAT56 and Peerless Small Batch Bourbon

The L'Atelier Cigar line from Pete Johnson of Tatujaje Cigars are consistently enjoyable smokes. One I've not had until late, to my recollection, is the L'Atelier LAT56. The highly rated line has been out for over a decade. 

The 6 1/2 x 56 LAT56 features a smooth, dark wrapper of an Ecuadorian hybrid leaf called Sancti Spiritus. The wrapper is slick with a shrink-wrapped tightness to the roll. The binder and filler tobaccos are Nicaraguan. A simple gold band completes the well-manicured look.

The smoke started off with nutty cocoa and a touch of pepper. Nuttiness and wood flavors held consistent, with the cocoa notes fading slightly, until returning in the final third. This was a most enjoyable smoke. The cigar had been resting in my humidor for just a few weeks. I need not have been concerned about the short rest time as the cigar produced a near perfect burn throughout. The line was sharp and the ash was solid without flaking. I did make one minor correction that surely would have fixed itself, but I get a bit OCD at times on the burn line.

The other half of this pairing consisted of Peerless Small Batch Bourbon. Even at 115.4 proof, I find this one to be a surprisingly easy sipper. The bourbon shines a dark mahogany color in the glass. There is a bit of alcohol on the nose, but it is minimal on the palate. Sweet notes of caramel and cinnamon arise first. Creamy butterscotch and brown sugar join in the short and clean finish. 

The L'Aterlier LAT56 and Peerless Small Batch combine for a flavorful, and even aesthetically pleasing, pairing. The long smoke time called for a couple extra splashes in the glass. As darkness fell, the cool fall-like air added to the ambiance of the evening of conversation with my wife on the porch. I smile still as I reminisce about it.

Cheers!