S5 E20 Blantons SB with an Ashton VSG

The Pairing Experience

When two titans of craftsmanship meet — Blanton’s Single Barrel Bourbon and the Ashton Virgin Sun Grown (VSG) cigar — the result is a symphony of depth, spice, and refinement. Both embody patience, precision, and legacy, making this a pairing that rewards slow savoring and mindful indulgence.

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Blanton’s Single Barrel Bourbon

Distillery: Buffalo Trace
Mash Bill: ~65% corn, 15% rye, 20% malted barley
ABV: 46.5% (93 proof)

Appearance & Nose

In the glass, Blanton’s shows a warm amber hue with glints of copper. The nose is rich and complex — vanilla bean, honeycomb, baked apple, and a touch of orange zest, all layered over seasoned oak and light clove. A subtle rye spice teases the edges, promising both sweetness and structure.

Palate

The first sip delivers Blanton’s signature silkiness. Caramel and brown sugar glide forward, followed by toasted oak, cinnamon, and faint tobacco. Mid-palate warmth from the rye adds vibrancy without overpowering the sweetness. Hints of nutmeg, dried fruit, and charred oak linger beautifully. Each barrel of Blanton’s has its own fingerprint, but all share a remarkable balance of sweetness and spice.

Finish

Long, warm, and satisfying — the finish brings back notes of vanilla custard, peppered oak, and a wisp of dark cocoa. It’s elegant without being overbearing, perfectly setting the stage for the cigar to follow.

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Ashton VSG (Virgin Sun Grown)

Wrapper: Ecuadorian Sun-Grown Sumatra
Binder/Filler: Aged Dominican tobaccos
Strength: Full
Vitola (reviewed): Toro

Appearance & Construction

The VSG is a visually stunning cigar — oily, dark brown wrapper with fine veins and expert rolling. The draw is smooth with a firm pack and slow, even burn. This is a cigar that announces its pedigree from the first glance.

Aroma & Flavor

Pre-light aromas of cedar, espresso, and black pepper transition seamlessly into the first third, where rich leather and dark wood dominate. As it progresses, layers of cocoa, roasted nuts, and a touch of molasses come through. The final third is bold — espresso bitterness, pepper, and charred oak intertwine with lingering sweetness. It’s unapologetically full-bodied but impeccably refined.

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Pairing Notes

From the first sip and draw, Blanton’s and the VSG reveal their kinship. The bourbon’s caramel and vanilla soothe the cigar’s peppery opening, creating a seamless contrast of sweet and spice. Midway through, both deepen — Blanton’s rye and oak align perfectly with the cigar’s leather and espresso notes. The shared oak and earth tones harmonize, while Blanton’s touch of honey and citrus brightens the cigar’s darker edges.

By the final third, the pairing hits its stride: the bourbon’s residual sweetness rounds out the cigar’s intensity, leaving a balanced afterglow of cedar, caramel, cocoa, and spice. Neither dominates — they converse like seasoned partners.

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Pairing Summary

This pairing captures balance through power and elegance. Blanton’s Single Barrel’s honeyed oak and baking spice weave effortlessly into the Ashton VSG’s leather, espresso, and cedar core. It’s a luxurious experience best enjoyed slowly — after dinner, with quiet jazz or soft light, where both bourbon and cigar can tell their story without interruption.

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Final Verdict:
⭐ Complexity: 9.5/10
⭐ Balance: 9.5/10
⭐ Body Match: Perfect
⭐ Recommended Setting: Evening wind-down with low light and contemplative company
⭐ Pairing Grade: A+ — A benchmark combination of strength, sweetness, and sophistication