The Whiskymaker’s Reserve No.5 & Bolivar Belicosos Finos Pairing

The Whiskymaker’s Reserve No.5 – Review

Released in 2021, No.5 continued The Lakes Distillery’s tradition of full-bodied, sherry-matured single malts. It is known for being one of the most concentrated and complex of the series.

• Nose: dark fruits, treacle, clove, espresso, and rich oak.

• Palate: bold sherry notes of figs and raisins, layered with bitter chocolate, nutmeg, and tobacco leaf.

• Finish: long, powerful, with waves of spice and roasted coffee.

At 52% ABV, No.5 is unapologetically intense — a dram for late evenings and big flavours.

The Cigar: Bolívar Belicosos Finos

Bolívar Cigars are among the strongest and most full-bodied Habanos. The Belicosos Finos, a classic torpedo-shaped figurado, is their most iconic vitola.

• Strength: Full flavoured

• Size: Belicoso (140mm x 52 ring gauge)

• Flavour profile: Earth, leather, black pepper, cocoa, and deep tobacco richness.

Why They Work Together

• Power Meets Power: No.5’s dark sherry and espresso notes find their equal in the earthy intensity of the Belicosos Finos.

• Shared Dark Flavours: Bitter chocolate and coffee in the whisky resonate with cocoa and leather in the cigar.

• Evening Indulgence: Both are best enjoyed slowly after a meal, offering depth, weight, and longevity.

Final Thoughts

The Whiskymaker’s Reserve No.5 and Bolívar Belicosos Finos are not for the faint-hearted. This pairing is bold, brooding, and deeply satisfying — a perfect match for those who seek intensity and character in both their whisky and their cigars.