I recently had the pleasure of trying Joseph A. Magnus’ “Cigar Blend” Bourbon (Batch 58), and I must say, it did not disappoint.
This unique blend of high-aged whiskeys ranging from 11 to 20 years old is curated by Nancy Fraley, one of the most respected master blenders in the industry, and it certainly shows in the complexity of flavors.
Table of Contents
Joseph A. Magnus ‘Cigar Blend’ Bourbon (Batch 58) Overview
Product History
This bourbon is part of a series of blends that are specifically crafted to be enjoyed with a fine cigar. Batch 58 is made up of a mother blend of 16 bourbon barrels ranging in age from 14 to 20 years old, with a unique Armagnac cask finish that lends fruity notes of fig, prune, and dried apricot.
According to Jos. A. Magnus & Co., the company has been producing high-quality spirits since 1892. The company was founded by Joseph A. Magnus, a pre-Prohibition distiller who was known for his exceptional blending skills. After the company went out of business during Prohibition, it was revived by Magnus’s great-grandson, Jimmy Turner, in 2015. Since then, the company has been producing award-winning spirits that honor the legacy of Joseph A. Magnus.
Price Range
Joseph A. Magnus ‘Cigar Blend’ Bourbon (Batch 58) is a premium bourbon that is priced accordingly.
The price range for this bourbon varies depending on the retailer, but you can expect to pay anywhere from $300 to $400 for a bottle.
While this may seem steep, it’s important to keep in mind that this is a high-quality bourbon that has been aged for many years and carefully crafted to be enjoyed with a fine cigar.
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Tasting Notes
Aroma
The aroma of Joseph A. Magnus ‘Cigar Blend’ Bourbon (Batch 58) is rich and complex.
It has a strong scent of vanilla, caramel, and oak, with a hint of smoke. The aroma is very inviting and makes you want to take a sip right away.
Flavor
The flavor of this bourbon is just as complex and enjoyable as its aroma. It has a smooth and creamy taste with notes of caramel, vanilla, and toffee. The rye spice adds a nice kick to the overall flavor profile, making it more interesting and exciting. The flavors are well-balanced and complement each other nicely.
Finish
The finish of Joseph A. Magnus ‘Cigar Blend’ Bourbon (Batch 58) is long and satisfying. It has a warm and spicy finish with a hint of smoke and oak. The finish is not too harsh, making it enjoyable to sip on. It leaves a pleasant aftertaste that lingers in your mouth for a while.
Rating
Overall, I would rate Joseph A. Magnus ‘Cigar Blend’ Bourbon (Batch 58) a 9 out of 10. It is a well-crafted bourbon that is rich, complex, and enjoyable to drink. The flavors are well-balanced, and the finish is satisfying.
Mixing and Pairing
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Best Mixers
When it comes to mixing Joseph A. Magnus ‘Cigar Blend’ Bourbon (Batch 58), I prefer to keep it simple. The complex flavors of this bourbon should be allowed to shine through, so I recommend using mixers that complement, rather than overpower, the whiskey.
Some of my favorite mixers for this bourbon include ginger ale, lemon-lime soda, and tonic water. These mixers add a touch of sweetness and fizziness to the drink without masking the unique flavors of the bourbon.
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Cocktail Suggestions
If you’re looking to create a cocktail with Joseph A. Magnus ‘Cigar Blend’ Bourbon (Batch 58), there are a few classic recipes that work particularly well.
One of my favorites is the Old Fashioned. This cocktail allows the rich, spicy notes of the bourbon to shine through, while the sugar and bitters add a touch of sweetness and complexity.
Another great option is the Manhattan, which pairs the bourbon with sweet vermouth and bitters for a smooth, sophisticated drink.
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Food Pairings
Joseph A. Magnus ‘Cigar Blend’ Bourbon (Batch 58) is a versatile whiskey that pairs well with a variety of foods.
Its bold, spicy flavors make it an excellent match for grilled meats, such as steak or pork chops. It also pairs well with rich, savory dishes like stews and casseroles. For a lighter pairing, try serving this bourbon with a cheese plate featuring sharp, aged cheddar or blue cheese. The complex flavors of the bourbon will complement the bold flavors of the cheese, creating a truly delicious pairing.
Conclusion
Joseph A. Magnus ‘Cigar Blend’ Bourbon (Batch 58) is a fantastic bourbon that is worth trying. The combination of bourbons aged between 12 to 20 years mixed with regular Joseph Magnus bourbon and finished in ex-Armagnac casks creates a unique and complex flavor profile that is sure to impress any bourbon enthusiast.
While this bourbon is not cheap, it is worth the price for the quality and complexity of the product. I would highly recommend Joseph A. Magnus ‘Cigar Blend’ Bourbon (Batch 58) to anyone looking for a unique and complex bourbon to add to their collection.
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