First West 11 Year Cigar Blend Bourbon

First West Cigar Blend from Bardstown's 15 STARS marries 11- and 15-year-old Kentucky straight bourbons, then finishes them in Cognac, Pedro Ximénez sherry, and tawny Port casks for a richly layered pour at 106 proof. Expect deep plum, warm brown sugar, and old leather on the nose, followed by jammy dark fruit, caramel, cracked pepper, and cigar box on the palate, all closing on molasses, black cherry, and earthy tobacco. Crafted to pair with a medium- to full-bodied cigar, this limited release is a rare find for anyone who loves slowing down with a great smoke and a well-aged bourbon.

First West Cigar Blend comes from 15 STARS, a Bardstown, Kentucky producer known for sourcing and blending well-aged American whiskeys. This Kentucky straight bourbon marries 11- and 15-year-old straight bourbons, then finishes them in a trio of Cognac, Pedro Ximénez Sherry, and tawny Port casks. It is bottled at 106 proof (53% ABV) using the brand's proprietary Flavor Proofing process.

Deep plum, fresh pastry, and warm brown sugar lead the way, layered with baking spice and old leather. As it opens, lighter notes of citrus and banana emerge.

Jammy dark fruit, crisp pear, and caramel sweetness fill the palate. Cracked pepper, cigar box, and seasoned oak bring balance and structure.

Molasses, stewed plum, and black cherry linger. The bourbon closes on an earthy note of tobacco and charred oak.

This limited release was crafted with both cigar lovers and bourbon enthusiasts in mind, blending mature bourbon with the richness of three distinct wine and brandy casks. The result is a layered, dark-fruited bourbon whose leathery, tobacco-tinged depth makes it a natural companion to a good smoke.

Pour it neat or with a few drops of water to open up its fruit and spice. For the experience it was designed for, pair it with a medium- to full-bodied cigar and let the cigar box and tobacco notes play off each other.