Overview: Joseph A. Magnus & Co. introduced a distinctive spirit in 2016 under the direction of Master Blender Nancy Fraley. This Cigar Blend Bourbon draws inspiration from French ‘cigare blend’ cognacs rather than incorporating actual tobacco into the production process. The release highlights a specific philosophy regarding flavor pairing with cigars and cocktails.
The Full Story
Nancy Fraley developed the concept after spending her early years learning how to blend cognac and brandy. She explained on Reddit that there is a very long tradition in France of ‘cigare blend’ cognacs, which are essentially cognacs blended to pair especially well with a cigar. Later in her career, she began working almost exclusively with bourbon and became inspired to bring that same essence to whiskey.
When the idea initially struck, Fraley dialed up the owners of Joseph A. Magnus & Co., even though it was well after hours. Magnus agreed to give it a try, and in 2016 Fraley created Joseph Magnus Cigar Blend Bourbon. She retired as Magnus’ master blender in May 2026, but remains master blender emeritus.
Production & Profile
The production process involves no tobacco involved in the whiskey-making process, distinguishing it from smoked cocktails or other variations. While not an official type of whiskey like rye or bourbon, a designated cigar-blend whiskey takes some calibrating to ensure it pairs perfectly with smoking a cigar. The profile is designed to complement the smoke inside the mouth when mingled with the sweet and smoky notes of each contrast and complement one another.
Brand & Industry History
Fraley spent her early years learning how to blend cognac and brandy before transitioning to bourbon. This background influenced the creation of a spirit that honors the French tradition of ‘cigare blend’ cognacs within an American whiskey framework. The distillery owners agreed to the project after hours, leading to the 2016 launch of Joseph Magnus Cigar Blend Bourbon.
What This Means
This release establishes a designated cigar-blend whiskey that is not an official type of whiskey but serves a specific pairing function. It offers a new avenue for enthusiasts to explore how the sweet and smoky notes of each contrast and complement one another during tasting. The approach treats appreciating a cigar and whiskey together as an unhurried activity meant for tasting and completely enjoying the layering of the two strong flavors.
Consumer Takeaway
Drinker recommendations include classic Old Fashioned cocktails, Whiskey Sour, and Manhattan cocktails to pair well with cigars. A medium-bodied cigar complements the sweet and sour notes of these two cocktails, while bolder flavors hold their own against the intense flavors of a full-bodied cigar. The technique suggests an initial puff of the cigar followed by a small sip of whiskey to allow it to gently move around your mouth and taste buds.
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