Five Top Barrel Aged Cigars
Five Barrel Aged Cigars You Need to Try
Barrel aged cigars are having their turn in the spotlight in the premium cigar industry—and for good reason. They’re delicious. Whether it’s due to the smoother and refined character—because barrel aging typically mellows out the tobaccos—or the unique flavor profile that only barrel aging delivers, these premium cigars have amassed legions of fans.
Are Barrel Aged Considered Infused Cigars?
Yes, technically barrel aged cigars are ‘infused’—but they shouldn’t be confused with brands like Drew Estate ACID, CAO Flavors, or Tatiana. Barrel aged blends use no added flavorings like coffee, chocolate, or fruit and the infusion method is entirely different.
The process of barrel aging cigars involves further maturing tobacco leaves inside a barrel that was previously used to age alcoholic spirits, such as bourbon, whisky, rum, or cognac—to name a few. The tobacco leaves then absorb the flavors and aromas of the spirit, imparting a unique character to the cigar. However, the exact barrel aging process used will vary depending on the brand and the desired flavor profile of the cigar.
Top Barrel Aged Cigars
When choosing a barrel aged cigar, there are other factors to consider outside of the brand and intensity. Here are a couple things you want to keep in mind:
To help further whittle down your options, here are some of the best barrel aged cigars that you should try.
Perdomo Habano Barrel Aged Maduro
The tobaccos in this beauty from Nick Perdomo were aged a minimum of 6 years before the barrel aging process. Then, Maduro wrapper gracing this blend was aged in bourbon barrels for an additional 14 months, resulting in a perfectly balanced and smooth smoke. The Perdomo Habano Barrel Aged Maduro is expertly crafted with an effortless draw and even burn. Expect rich and robust notes of cocoa, espresso, and spice, while the strength stays in medium-plus range. Overall, Perdomo Habano Barrel Aged Maduro is a rich and complex cigar that should be added to your ‘must try’ list.
Partagas 1845 Extra Oscuro
For the last 150 years or so, Partagas cigars have been reliably rich and tasty. The 1845 Extra Oscuro is a shining example with a decidedly dark and oily wrapper over a host of barrel aged Dominican and Nicaraguan ligero long-fillers, and an earthy, Dominican-grown Vega Especiale binder. The results are a cigar with a robust flavor profile with notes of dark chocolate, coffee, and spice that combine to create a truly indulgent, full-bodied experience. The construction is spot-on, with a smooth draw and an even burn that lasts throughout the smoke. Partagas 1845 Extra Oscuro is perfect for those seeking a full-flavored smoke, and it is sure to satisfy even the most discerning cigar enthusiast.
La Aurora Barrel Aged
A testament to the artistry and craftsmanship of the La Aurora brand. The tobaccos used in La Aurora Barrel Aged are matured in oak barrels (previously used to age rum) for a minimum of four years, resulting in a smooth and flavorful smoke. The flavor profile is complex, with notes of cedar, leather, and a subtle sweetness that lingers on the palate. La Aurora Barrel Aged is an ideal choice for those looking for a premium cigar that is both elegant and nuanced.
Weller by Cohiba 2022
A collaboration between two iconic brands, Weller by Cohiba captures the best of both worlds. The blend features Nicaraguan, Honduran, and Dominican tobaccos with a bourbon barrel aged Connecticut Broadleaf binder. The blend is capped off with a stunning, oily Ecuadorian Sumatra wrapper. The result is a medium-bodied smoke with a perfect balance of flavor and complexity. Notes of cedar, leather, and spice are present throughout, with a touch of sweetness and a smooth finish that is both satisfying and memorable. Definitely not a bargain basement cigar—Weller by Cohiba deserves a spot in your humidor for those moments when only the best will do.
Davidoff Winston Churchill Late Hour
Davidoff Winston Churchill Late Hour cigars are a tribute to the iconic leader’s love of fine cigars and whisky. The blend features a dark and oily Ecuadorian Habano Marron Oscuro wrapper, a Mexican San Andres binder, and long fillers from the Dominican Republic and Nicaragua. Of note, the Condega (Nicaragua) Visus in the blend was aged for 6 months in single malt scotch whisky barrels. The result is a rich and complex smoke with notes of leather, dark chocolate, espresso, oak, cream, and a hint of sweetness. Sometimes you need a little luxury—and in those times, Davidoff Winston Churchill Late Hour makes an excellent choice for those seeking a full-flavored and richly indulgent experience.