Kenfessions: Bolivar Belicosos Finos – Shichida Junmai Daiginjo Sake

[Ken Gargett]

Bolivar Belicosos Finos – Shichida Junmai Daiginjo Sake

Interesting combo this week. A popular and well-known cigar with something a little more left field – a cracking sake.

The Belicosos. A pyramid, 52x140mm. A cigar which, according to Trev’s magnificent site, has been with us since pre-1960.

This example smoked very well. rich, chocolatey, dark fruits. It took a little time to get into stride but went well when it did. It was more Christmas cake than the typical earthiness one thinks of when one smokes Bolivar. This smoke had what seems to be referred to as ‘the elusive perfect draw” but what is that? Over to Ray, I think? Slightly tight is pretty close for me. And this was.

Overall, a long slow smoke. Always like that. Quite powerful as would... continue to full article.

[99call]

Hats of to you @Ken Gargett this is a great piece on Sake.   I took a much deeper plunge into the world of Sake on a recent trip to Hokkaido, I've been to Japan many times, but this was much more of a full-on experience, and Sake is one of those things that really rewards you for persevering beyond the initial cheap and cheerful can out of a vending machine, and spending a bit of time and money (like with anything) to give it a fair go, and learn how wonderful it can be. 

[Goodfortune]

Thanks! Enjoyed the read. Never considered pairing a cigar with sake, but definitely something that is on my list to try soon.

[Tobbot]

Great read and great information. I quickly forget about Sake. Next time I do buy some,  which will be soon after reading this, I'll be much better informed. 

[El Hoze]

Great piece Ken. I drink alot of Sake as I eat Japenese food probably at least 2-3 times a week and yet for some reason I retain very little that I glean over the years. I just drink it. Very different than wine where anything I hear/read/taste/smell/see seems to go into a permanent hard drive in my head. Not sure why that is as I agree Sake is a great option with an amazing story behind it from a culture I greatly admire. Had Sake with some grilled Florida Pompano the other night. Was perfect. 

Thanks for the piece, Ken. I learned/relearned alot! Cheers!