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I was reading through some old threads about what folks like to pair with their cigars (coffee, tea, water, Dr. Pepper (?), etc.) and thought I'd be helpful to get some thoughts on coffee versus tea pairings. I usually have a dry latte, unsweetened, when I smoke. I have a burr grinder and a decent - but not great - espresso machine. I use a dark roast Nicaraguan bean from a local roaster that has a nice chocolate aroma and isn't too acidic. I've used Cubita in the past when I can find it, but I haven't seen any at my usual sources for the past year and a half. I've heard of some testers who use lukewarm tea as a sort of palate cleanser when they smoke, and I think that's an interesting idea. I'm considering trying something different because "coffee" or some variant of that is so common in tasting notes and reviews. I never really get that out of my cigars, and I'm assuming that's because the coffee note is completely masked by the actual coffee I'm drinking. Any thoughts on a pairing that would really let the full range of flavors and aromas of a cigar shine through? And for tea drinkers, any recommendations? I'm thinking something in the oolong family, but that might be too mild ... Looking forward to enjoying trying some new pairings!

So short and sweet. My buddy is trying to get me interested in craft beers. Micro-brews, IPAs, and the like. I have been trying to get my buddy interested in cigars for quite some time. What are some cigar/beer (craft and IPA) combos that you have found to be good together? My inventory consists of: Boli RC Party D4 SLR Regio LGC #4 Party Shorts

Do you typically pair your cigars with a beverage? If so what is your drink of choice? More and more I am pairing my cigars, especially cigars I am trying for the first time, with water. I've had some bad pairing experiences that led me to not enjoy smokes I know I love on their own, and I also like to let the flavors and nuances of the cigar itself shine through without the influence of a drink. Anyone else like to make the cigar the sole focus of a smoking session? What are your favorite cigar and beverage pairing combinations?