Cigars are a luxury item that can be enjoyed during a relaxing evening or after a good meal. However, finding the right drink to pair with a cigar can be a challenge, especially if you’re not a fan of alcohol. In this article, we’ll explore the best non-alcoholic drinks to pair with a cigar, so you can sit back, relax, and enjoy your smoke.
Welcome to this discussion on the topic of what to drink with a cigar without consuming alcohol. Many people enjoy a nice cigar as a way to relax and unwind, but selecting the right beverage to accompany it can be just as important. Whether you are looking for a non-alcoholic option or simply prefer not to drink while indulging in a cigar, there are several great options available that can enhance your smoking experience. Let’s explore some of the best options for what to drink with a cigar without alcohol.
The Basics of Pairing a Drink with a Cigar
Before we dive into the specific non-alcoholic drinks that pair well with cigars, it’s essential to understand the basics of pairing a drink with a cigar.
The first thing to consider is the strength of the cigar. Strong cigars require a more robust beverage to balance out the flavors, while milder cigars pair better with lighter drinks.
Another factor to consider is the flavor profile of the cigar. If the cigar is woody or earthy, you may want to pair it with a drink that has a similar taste, like coffee or tea. On the other hand, if the cigar is spicy, a drink with a sweet or creamy taste can help balance out the flavors.
The Importance of Water
Before we get into the specific non-alcoholic drinks, it’s worth mentioning the importance of water when smoking a cigar. Cigars can be dehydrating, so it’s essential to drink plenty of water to stay hydrated and cleanse your palate between puffs.
Water is also an excellent palate cleanser, and drinking it between sips of a non-alcoholic drink can help you fully appreciate the flavor of both the cigar and the beverage.
Best Non-Alcoholic Drinks to Pair with a Cigar
Now that we’ve covered the basics let’s take a look at the best non-alcoholic drinks to pair with a cigar.
Coffee
Coffee is a popular choice for pairing with cigars, and for good reason. The bold flavors of coffee can complement the strong flavors of a cigar, creating a well-balanced pairing.
When it comes to coffee, there are plenty of options to choose from. For a milder cigar, a light roast coffee can be an excellent choice, while a darker roast can pair well with a stronger cigar.
Tea
If you’re not a fan of coffee, tea can be an excellent alternative. Like coffee, the earthy flavors of tea can complement the flavors of a cigar.
Black teas like Earl Grey or English Breakfast can be a good option for pairing with cigars, as their bold flavors can stand up to the strong taste of the cigar.
Sparkling Water
If you’re looking for a non-alcoholic drink that won’t overpower the taste of your cigar, sparkling water can be an excellent choice. The carbonation can help cleanse your palate between puffs, while the neutral taste won’t interfere with the flavor of the cigar.
Soda
While soda may not be the healthiest option, it can be a good choice for pairing with a mild cigar. The sweetness of the soda can help balance out the flavors of the cigar, creating a well-rounded pairing.
If you’re going to pair soda with a cigar, it’s best to opt for a lighter flavor, like lemon-lime or ginger ale, as these won’t overpower the taste of the cigar.
Fruit Juice
Fruit juice can be a great non-alcoholic drink to pair with a cigar, especially if you’re smoking a mild cigar. The sweetness of the juice can help balance out the flavors of the cigar, creating a well-rounded pairing.
When it comes to fruit juice, it’s best to opt for a juice that isn’t too acidic, as this can interfere with the flavor of the cigar. Orange juice, apple juice, or grape juice can be good options to consider.
FAQs: What to Drink with a Cigar Non Alcoholic
What are the best non-alcoholic drinks to pair with a cigar?
There are plenty of non-alcoholic drinks that can complement a cigar. Some popular choices include coffee, tea, soda, sparkling water, and fruit juices. Coffee is a classic option, and its bitterness can serve as an excellent contrast to the cigar’s earthy sweetness. Tea, especially black and oolong, can also work well as they have a similar depth of flavor. Soda or sparkling water provide a refreshing palate cleanser between puffs, while fruit juices, especially those with citrus or tropical notes, can enhance the taste of the cigar.
Is it necessary to pair non-alcoholic drinks with cigars?
Pairing non-alcoholic drinks with cigars can enhance the overall smoking experience, but it is not necessary. The most important thing is to choose a beverage you enjoy, whether it is water or something fancier, and sip it slowly, allowing it to complement the qualities of the cigar.
Can I drink anything while smoking a cigar?
It is generally recommended to avoid pairing cigars with strong alcoholic beverages or sugary drinks that can clash with the cigar’s flavors. However, it ultimately comes down to personal preference, and some people might enjoy a whiskey or rum with their cigar. Just be mindful of how the drink impacts the cigar’s taste.
Should I match the flavor of the cigar to the drink?
It’s not necessary to match the cigar’s flavors to the drink. Instead, it’s better to find a beverage that can complement or contrast the cigar’s profile. If the cigar is earthy and robust, you might want to pair it with a sweet juice or something citrusy to create balance. On the other hand, a milder cigar can benefit from being paired with a more substantial drink, such as coffee or tea.
Can water be a good choice for pairing with a cigar?
Absolutely. Water’s neutrality can allow the smoker to focus solely on the cigar’s flavors and aromas without distraction. Still, if you wish to have flavored water, it’s best to choose one with a subtle flavor that won’t overpower the cigar. Plain or sparkling water is a great option to cleanse the palate between draws.