If you’re a fan of fine cigars paired with bourbon, 15 Stars has the perfect expression for you. The popular brand is expanding its First West collection with First West Cigar Blend.
15 Stars First West Cigar Blend
This limited-edition whiskey was made for bourbon drinkers and cigar fans alike. This soon-to-be highly sought-after whiskey marries 11– and 15-year-old straight bourbons finished in a combination of cognac, Pedro Ximénez Sherry, and tawny port casks. This creates a multi-layered, fruity, spiced, oaky bourbon that’s guaranteed to be a hit with your friends and family throughout the holiday season (if the bottle even lasts that long).
According to 15 Stars, this balanced, memorable bourbon is proofed down to 106 using the brand’s proprietary 15 STARS’ Flavor Proofing™ process. It starts with notes of plums, pastries, brown sugar, baking spices, leather, citrus peels, and ripe banana. The palate centers on notes of dark fruit, peat, caramelized sugar, cracked black pepper, cigar box, and seasoned oak. The finish is long and warm, ending with a mix of molasses cookies, plums, black cherry, tobacco, and charred oak. Enjoy it neat, or with a splash or two of water, with a great cigar.
“Some of our previous expressions have resonated with cigar enthusiasts who enjoy the blends of finishing casks we have used, so we wanted to build on that interest with a release that puts the pairing front and center,” Rick Johnson, co-founder of 15 STARS, says.
“The result is a bourbon with plenty of character to explore, whether you’re enjoying it with a cigar or just pouring a glass.”
Co-founder Ricky Johnson adds, “The expression was blended with plenty of character and boldness to stand up to the smoke of a full-bodied cigar,” he says. “That’s why we chose rich cask finishes that bring out dark fruit and confectionery notes, alongside well-aged bourbons with ample time to develop in oak.”
Where can I buy it?
First West Cigar Blend is currently available at select whiskey retailers throughout the US and online at 15STARS.com for the suggested retail price of $79.99 for a 750ml bottle. For more information, visit 15STARS.com.
