Here, Bruce Hackmann follows up on his numbers method of beer and cigar pairing with an example of how to use word descriptors. By combining these two approaches, you should be able to successfully pair an exquisite Belgian beer with any cigar.

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In the last installment, I showed you how to play the numbers game, so let’s look at the words used to describe your Belgian beer.

The words used to describe a beer are very important when reading up on tasting notes, especially when you have not had the beer before.  The Augustijn is described as spicy, malty and fruity.  When I opened my 750 mL (aged a few years) bottle I was picking up an aroma of tropical fruit.  Then, the first few tastes, yes, it was citrusy up-front with an underlying sweet spice taste.  I could think of some flavored cigars that would go nice with this ale, but I don’t do flavored cigars.  Something from Drew Estates or Acid Cigars could work well with this particular beer.

Here is another good tip – when you have not had the beer before, take a few sips before lighting a cigar up so you can pair them better.  The key word description here was ‘fruity.’  The day I had the Augustijn I was at my vacation place so my cigars were limited.  I usually carry 20 to 25 different cigars with me to spend the week-end or week.  I selected the Man O War Torpedo for its ‘full spice and woody undertones.’   With the citrus ale taste, I was thinking that an oak smoked cheddar cheese would go well with this and that got me to the Man O War with its oaky woody notes.

Can the Gulden Draak Tripel stand up to a cigar? Yes!  You often hear about toffee or caramel sweetness when this delicious ale is mentioned. Well, coffee-like flavors should pair well.  A medium to full bodied ale needs a medium to full bodied cigar.  The point system needs to work but, we are also playing the word game.  I go to my humidor and select a Padilla 68 Salomon, a beautiful 7 X 58 cigar.  This cedary-woody but, sweet, yet earthy cigar, with a hint of coffee should do the trick. After trying them together, I can tell you it’s a perfect match!  For some, drinking this ale all by itself can be overwhelming with the sweet, dessert-like flavor notes.  So, a quality cigar should take the edge off – and it does.

Now, let’s review.  Using the point scale to chart your taste on fine Belgian beers and cigars will help you to maximize your pleasures.  Using the word description approach will help you to find compatibility.  Respect your beer and cigar.  Don’t set yourself up for that collision in taste.  By matching up the taste you will maximize your pleasures in life.

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Be sure to look right here for more tips from Bruce on the best beer and cigar combinations.