Romeo y Julieta Churchill Paired with Henry Westons Vintage Cider & a Wine Whisky Mac

The Cigar: Romeo y Julieta Churchill

Named in honour of Sir Winston Churchill, who famously loved this brand, the Romeo y Julieta Churchill is a legendary vitola that embodies balance and refinement.

• Strength: Medium

• Size: Churchill (178mm x 47 ring gauge)

• Flavour profile: Cedar, roasted nuts, cocoa, floral sweetness, and subtle spice.

• Character: Graceful and layered — flavours evolve beautifully over its 2hr smoke time.

The First Drink: Henry Westons Vintage Cider

Start the experience with the clean, crisp bite of Henry Westons Vintage Cider from Herefordshire.

• ABV: 8.2%

• Flavour profile: Tart green apple, toffee, oak, and soft tannins.

• Character: Refreshing, slightly sweet, and full-bodied — perfect for cutting through the initial richness of the cigar.

Why It Works (First Half):

• The cider’s acidity refreshes the palate, brightening the early cedar and nut tones of the cigar.

• Its apple sweetness accentuates the cigar’s creamy, floral character.

• Ideal for the first third of the cigar, where flavours are delicate and nuanced.

The Second Drink: Wine Whisky Mac

Once the cigar’s flavour deepens, transition to a Wine Whisky Mac, a twist on the classic cocktail using red wine instead of ginger wine.

• Recipe: Equal parts Scotch whisky and a rich, fruity red wine (such as Shiraz or Rioja).

• Flavour profile: Deep berry fruit, oak, and spice with whisky’s warmth and malt sweetness.

• Character: Rich, warming, and velvety.

Why It Works (Second Half):

• As the cigar develops richer cocoa and spice tones, the Wine Whisky Mac adds depth and warmth.

• The red wine’s tannins and dark fruit complement the cigar’s earthy finish.

• The whisky element reinforces the cigar’s smoky complexity, creating a luxurious close to the experience.

The Journey in Flavour

1. Start Light: Begin with the crisp refreshment of cider — it cleanses, refreshes, and highlights the cigar’s elegance.

2. Finish Deep: Transition into the warming, spiced richness of a Wine Whisky Mac — enhancing the final half of the Churchill’s long, satisfying smoke.

Final Thoughts

Pairing the Romeo y Julieta Churchill with two complementary drinks turns one cigar into an evolving experience. The bright acidity of Henry Westons Cider awakens the palate; the richness of the Wine Whisky Mac closes the evening in warmth and depth. Together, they reflect the spirit of balance and complexity that defines both the cigar and its namesake.