Best Cigars to Pair With Zacapa Rum
Zacapa Rum premiered in 1976 to commemorate the centennial anniversary of Zacapa, Guatemala. Whereas most rum is distilled from molasses, Zacapa is derived from the first press of virgin sugarcane, which thrives in the rich, volcanic landscape of southern Guatemala. This result is a smooth and sweeter profile than other rum. Zacapa is aged 7,500 feet above sea level where fresh mountain air imparts delicate distinctions as the rum rests in a series of oak barrels to achieve its unique taste. For more than 35 years, master distiller Lorena Vasquez has guided each expression of Zacapa in a portfolio recognized by rum enthusiasts and bartenders who love the brand for its accessible, consistent, and cocktail-friendly taste.
1. Zacapa XO & Ashton Aged Maduro
Older and younger rums come together in Zacapa XO following 6 to 25 years of rest in a sequence of bourbon, sherry, and Pedro Ximénez wine barrels before they’re finished in former Cognac casks made of French oak. A deep nose of roasted nuts, oak, burnt caramel, and fruit is full of mature character. A lasting palate of clove, vanilla, cinnamon, cherry, and nuts leaves a complex impression before hints of raspberry, mango, and ginger surface in a supple finish. Ashton Aged Maduro is a first-class cigar for after-dinner libations like rum and Cognac, thanks to its mouthwatering profile of dark chocolate, maple, molasses, and spice. Chewy, rich, and smoky flavors satisfy with lovely nuances thanks to the natural sweetness Ashton and Zacapa share in this pairing.
2. Zacapa Edicion Negra & La Aroma de Cuba Mi Amor
Charred American oak casks cradle a blend of rums for 6 to 24 years to arrive at the dark and smoky profile of Zacapa Edicion Negra. Decadent aromas of caramelized fruit and raisins resonate with a hints of plum and firewood while tantalizing flavors of chocolate, dark fruit, and spice soothe the palate in every sip. La Aroma de Cuba Mi Amor is a 95-rated classic blended by award-winning cigar-maker Pepin Garcia. A versatile profile of dark chocolate, espresso bean, black pepper, and almond includes a plethora of Nicaraguan spices that culminate in a sweet finish. Edicion Negra and Mi Amor create a sweet exchange that is bold and savory.
3. Zacapa 23 Centenario & Padrón 1964 Anniversary Maduro
Zacapa 23 Centenario greets the nose with aromas of caramel, vanilla, toffee, and glazed nuts with a touch of pineapple. Notes of leather, tobacco, nutmeg, and oak stir the palate with deep flavors of dried fruit and coffee. Hints of cinnamon and ginger emerge in a woody finish with a viscous texture of butterscotch and honey. The blend comes from rums aged between 6 and 23 years in barrels that once held American whiskey, sherry, and Pedro Ximénez wines. Perfectly matured Nicaraguan binder and filler tobaccos fill out Padrón 1964 Anniversary Maduro beneath a toothy Nicaraguan wrapper. Tasting notes of dark cocoa, cedar, cayenne, and nuts easily impress when paired with the succulent taste of Zacapa.
