Friday, December 2, 2011

Recommended Holiday Champagne And Cigar Pairings

1. Perrier Jouet Blanc de Blanc Flower Bottle ’99 paired with Arturo Fuente Opus X Perfecxion
Wine Spectator gave this fine champagne a 90 rating. Aromas of yogurt and yeast introduce the rich, powerful ’99 Perrier Jouet Blanc de Blanc Flower Bottle, a champagne with fine density and lovely texture. 
One of the rarest and highest rated brand in the world, OpusX has a world- renowned reputation for quality and class. It is full-bodied with a rich, robust flavor.  

2. Moet & Chandon Champagne Brut Rose Imperial paired with Padron Anniversary 1964 Series “A”
The most extrovert and seductive expression of the Moet & Chandon style. This champagne reflects the richness of the region’s best vineyards. Instantly seductive. Wine Spectator Rating: 91. 
A box-pressed cigar with a very even burn and a lush draw that saturates the entire palate with complex layers of spice, nut and wood flavors before a toasty finish.  

3. Bollinger Champagne Special Cuvee paired with Davidoff Zino Platinum Crown Series Rocket
The Bollinger style is always rich, with an intensity of flavor. Wine Enthusiast Rating: 94, Wine Spectator Rating: 93.
A thick torpedo that smokes well, forming a large, solid ash as it burns. It starts out papery but warms to show some nutty and savory notes. A light, mild- to medium-bodied cigar.  

4. Piper Heidsieck Champagne Brut ’98 paired with Montecristo White Churchill
Elegant vintage, classy and refined, with notes of tobacco and leather. The finish is light, with a hint of herbal tea. Wine Spectator Rating: 92. $59.99.
Creamy, mild and smooth, the Montecristo White is a favorite for aficionados who appreciate a complex smoke without an overwhelming amount of strength.

5. Domaine Carneros Brut Rose paired with Ashton Virgin Sun Grown Illusion
A top choice by Connoisseurs Guide, the NV Dom Carneros Brut Rose CuvĂ©e de la Pompadour celebrates the life and times of Madame de Pompadour (the great courtesan and mistress of Louis XV) who is credited with introducing champagne to the court. 
A thin, pressed cigar that is dark and oily with a lush draw. The flavors are woody and toasty with some peppery notes, citrus zest and a coffee finish. 

6. Deutz Champagne Brut Classic paired with Macanudo 1968 Toro
The distinctive house style that has made Champagne Deutz one of the most respected of all Champagne houses, is reflected in this fine non-vintage champagne. Wine Enthusiast Rating: 93. 
A dark cigar with lots of cedar flavors. The Toro’s taste is complemented by significant notes of toast as well as black cherry. 

7. Veuve Clicquot Brut Yellow Label paired with Rocky Patel Decade The Forty Six
Clicquot’s signature non-vintage Brut, loved for its crisp, full flavors, consistent quality and bright yellow label. It has a persistent sparkle and elegance. 
Short and box-pressed with even combustion and a full draw, this cigar is spicy and meaty with sweet, woody notes and a coffee bean finish. Medium bodied and well balanced.  

8. Chandon Spark Pinot Noir Brut Reserve paired with CAO LX2 Toro
Wine Enthusiast called this vintage “one of the best Chandon bubblies.” Rating: 93 
The Cao is a dark, solidly rolled cigar. The draw gives some resistance but, after savory first puffs, layers the palate with leather and coffee bean notes that usher in sweetness. 

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