Matching

Every civilization has a need for luxuries. That’s why the Cuban cigar is part of the luxury industry at times when its supremacy becomes evident. And even though people relate this product to the big cigars, few can imagine that we can take the same pleasure provided by a Churchill, or a Double Corona, from a Minut, a Perla, or a Petit Robusto.

Strength, flavors, smells, sizes, smoking time, harmony; all that and more cross a sommelier’s mind every time he has to recommend a Habano to a customer. That’s why, having a portfolio of Habanos is a tool that will lead the customer to making the right decision on the basis of good taste, the knowledge of the artists and the characteristics of each brand.

The excellent pairing between Habanos and spirits, such as Cuban rum –two symbols of Cuba’s culture and history- was enjoyed during the tasting session of both products performed by over 40 maître, sommeliers, bartenders, businessmen, intellectuals and journalists at the Havana Club rum factory, cradle of Havana Club Seleccion de Maestros.

A pairing and tasting session of Sancho Panza habanos (mild strength, Corona Gigante) and Bolivar (one Corona Extra, brand with mid-thick caliber and strong taste), with Cutty Surk Blended and The Famous Grouse Scotch whiskeys, among the most famous in the United Kingdom, was carried out by sommeliers, experts and Cuban Premium cigar buffs gathered at El Balcon de Bayamanaco.

For the first time and before a qualified and demanding audience –a good chunk of them hailing from nations where confectioning and patisserie top the list of staples- Cuba’s handcrafted fine chocolates were given a shot at their matching with the island nation’s distinguished cigars.

At the end of the day, the aged Santiago de Cuba and extra-aged Mulata rums were chosen and combined with selected vitolas from the Ramon Allones and Partagas brands

It was Cuban sage Fernando Ortiz the one who called people’s attention on the close ties among rum, habano and coffee, like a love affair of what he defined as “the island’s three diamonds,” tokens of our identity that have made the rounds in the world’s finest halls and saloons, acclaimed by sybarites and big-time consumers everywhere.

Both products that for the native dwellers of the New World were a common denominator of pleasure and god worshiping, now take a whole new spin on matching during the 13^th Habano Festival

Both are present in this festival to seal a much-anticipated alliance, a one-and-only occasion to take a closer look at some matching between the most selected representatives from each of these two genuine Cuban products.

During the opening session of the 13^th Habano Festival, the preliminary rounds of the tenth International Habanosommerlier Contest and the Alliance between Habanos and selected aged and extra-aged Cuban rums were held