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Posted
1 minute ago, Nevrknow said:

Masterclass anyone? Champers duh! Ask @Ken Gargett 😁

very kind. champers yes, but ports, fortifieds in general, good rums and malts (and whiskies in general). been matching a few mezcal and that seems to work. 

one i need to explore more is sparkling shiraz. 

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Posted

Along with many others already quoted, I enjoy sparkling water when I just want to enjoy the flavour of the cigar. Bourbon, Rum, Armagnac, or Cognac if I'm pairing alcohol. Now, for something completely different... a number of years ago on FOH reviews, Rob, Ken, and Smithy were testing various pairings for cigars. The beverage that stood out above all others (at least as I recall) was orange juice. I tried it and was surprised to find how well it pairs. I've suggested this to many BOTL in Shanghai; there are a lot of converts after trying it. Give it a go... you won't be disappointed.

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Posted

Non-alcoholic - Coke, Coffee, Sprite, tea (prefer dark ones like Pu'er or some dark greens), sparkling water together with alcohol normally only
Alcoholic - Champagne, prosecco or Franciacorta, Amaretto, port, some (not all) beers, red wine (prefer Aussie Shiraz or Primitivo), dark rums, whisky (depends I guess).

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Posted

I prefer espresso coffee. But hey, as has been mentioned, orange juice is actually not a bad 'out of left field' choice either!

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Posted
14 hours ago, ElLoboLoco said:

I think Oolong tea works great for me. Keeps the palate refreshed and clean. Coffee is a close second. Root beer and ginger is nice depending on the flavor profile of the cigar. Champagne, Cognac and rum is good too. Although, I am going Teetotaler. It’s very difficult when my current friend group revolves around drinking. It’s going to be a struggle. It’s time for me to quit however.

Good for you. I wish you success!😃

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Posted
4 hours ago, GaryK 54 said:

Along with many others already quoted, I enjoy sparkling water when I just want to enjoy the flavour of the cigar. Bourbon, Rum, Armagnac, or Cognac if I'm pairing alcohol. Now, for something completely different... a number of years ago on FOH reviews, Rob, Ken, and Smithy were testing various pairings for cigars. The beverage that stood out above all others (at least as I recall) was orange juice. I tried it and was surprised to find how well it pairs. I've suggested this to many BOTL in Shanghai; there are a lot of converts after trying it. Give it a go... you won't be disappointed.

谢谢分享, I was really surprised by this result, Will try it later.😁

Posted
On 3/30/2026 at 3:09 AM, ElLoboLoco said:

Thanks Scott, means a lot.

I set out to take 100 days off (was inspired by Pres). Got to day 100 and didn't really want to quit my streak. Decided I'd take it a full 12 months. I'll admit I miss drinking wine and the occasional cocktail. This summer will complete the year off. Feels good to know you can stop and sustain when you want. 

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Posted
22 hours ago, Ken Gargett said:

very kind. champers yes, but ports, fortifieds in general, good rums and malts (and whiskies in general). been matching a few mezcal and that seems to work. 

one i need to explore more is sparkling shiraz. 

After some consideration I have come to the conclusion that I’m not a champagne lover. It all tastes like grape juice and carbon dioxide, possibly carbon monoxide. The ports seem to set well with me and I never expected to find a dry Reisling so enjoyable.

To be fair, Ken, I did tell you as I was selling you up the river to “volunteer” for these wine master classes that I had the knowledge of the village idiot and the tastes of a long-haul OTR truck driver.

I think the classes are an event that every FOH should attend or watch. ☮️

Looking forward to the next…

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Posted

A glass of Best’s Sparkling Shiraz Great Western with an HDM Epi2 is a killer pairing.

Sounds offbeat, but it clicks. Dark fruit and a touch of sweetness meet that creamy, slightly honeyed profile, the spice lines up, and the bubbles keep your palate fresh instead of smoked out. Hits its stride halfway through, everything just locks in. It's uncanny.

And skip the heavy hitters. Medium-bodied is the move with Shiraz.

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