Mmmmmm…….Maker’s Mark Bourbon Cigars

I’ve been a fan of these cigars for a long time, and I was rather surprised I had never done a review.  Since I was at Charlie and Karen’s this weekend, I thought I would throw one into the Picinc Basket of Booze and write about the experience.

I’ve reviewed products from Ted’s Cigars before (Hops, Hos and HOPZ) before, so it should be no surprise I am an advocate. 

The Maker’s Mark Cigar IS the original offering from Ted’s, and to say they hit it out of the part from “word go” would be an understatement. 

The initial presentation of a glass tube dipped exactly like Maker’s Mark Bourbon is Classic.  Not only is it eye catching, but it makes it easy to spot when you walk into any cigar shop in the world.  If you hand this cigar to any bourbon/whiskey enthusiast, they know immediately what they are in for….quality.

Opening tube is just like open a bottle of Maker’s, and you are even met with the excellent aroma as crack the seal.  What I particularly like about the Ted’s Cigar lines, is the fact that there is no humidor required.  Although they are glass, and some care is required, you can throw their cigars in the console of your car, mail them or tuck one in your pocket before you go out for the night…..and you know the tobacco will be fresh.  This time was no exception, the tobacco was the tobacco is beautiful, supple and soft…with few veins and a nice tight wrap. 

The initial lighting was easy and the draw was perfect. 

The first 1/3 of the cigars flavors where not overwhelmed by the taste of bourbon, but instead complimented – leather, fresh wood and nuts mixed well with the bourbon taste.

The ash holds together well and the cigar has a nice even burn throughout.

The cigar really opened up in flavor after hitting peak temp, with the complexity of flavors ratcheting up to number 11 on the scale. 

The sweetness of whiskey continues to rise, and the nuttyness is replaced by fruits (I swear I got cranberry), spice and oiliness that just coats the mouth (in good way). 

Even the smoke itself, wafts up and can be enjoyed by all around – leading to one of the few cigars my wife doesn’t complain about.

I realize that price point around $10 a stick is going to scare some people away (especially newbies), don’t let it.  This is one of those cigars that is not only a perfect 1st time cigar, but one you’ll find yourself revisiting over and over and over (like me this time).

Maker’s Mark is an Iconic Brand within the bourbon market…..and Ted’s Cigars has really captured not only the essence, but created their own icon in itself.  Very seldom do I give out a 5 Star for a cigar….but this is time is the exception.  Do yourself a favor and go pick up/revisit a classic.  They’ve even expanded the line to include a 562 size.  You won’t be disappointed.

Afterwards – First I wanted to thank Charlie and Karen for a great night.  They are always excellent hosts and I hope they enjoyed the wine we left them with.  You guys are the best.  I also took a better picture of the ashtray Charlie provided….you should click on the picture and check it out.  Charlie called it “One of the few things older them me”….and I have to say, I was impressed.  Not only does it match the “Charlie Music Motif”, but one look at the phone number takes you to a back in time to a bygone era.  Click on the pic for a bigger version.

Secondly, as soon as I published this, someone asked me….were you really drinking Gin with a Bourbon flavored cigar?  Yes I was….and I think it was a great testament to the brand that it held up under those conditions….pairing with the various botanicals well and matching with the fruits of the garnish.  I think it proves that whiskey is not the only drink to have when smoking.  Sometimes it pays to be adventurous.

Cheers