This pairing is part of a special collaboration with the renowned house Rémy Cointreau, a distinguished firm with a rich heritage in producing some of the world’s finest spirits, including the legendary Rémy Martin cognacs. I was genuinely excited when I was given the opportunity –and the challenge– of finding the perfect cigar to complement the great Rémy Martin XO, a responsibility I gladly and enthusiastically accepted.
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Francisco Arias
Certified Cigar Sommelier
And it’s important to note that I am not sponsored by any cigar brand, so every recommendation I make is completely unbiased, based solely on flavor, quality, and how well it harmonizes with the drink.
One of the key factors I always consider when making these selections is accessibility. There’s nothing worse than reading about a fantastic pairing only to find that the cigar is either outrageously expensive or impossible to find. That’s why I strive to choose cigars that are relatively easy to find and reasonably priced, ensuring most readers can actually enjoy the experience.
For this pairing, I was looking for a cigar that would complement the rich and complex character of Rémy Martin XO. This cognac is known for its deep floral and fruity aromas, followed by notes of ripe plum, candied orange, warm spices, and toasted hazelnuts. The finish is long and luxurious, with flavors of roasted cocoa beans and honeyed gingerbread—a perfect balance of sweetness, spice, and depth.
The Cigar: Montecristo White Series Churchill (7” x 54)
After considering multiple options, I landed on the Montecristo White Series. I specifically chose the Churchill size to ensure the combustion happens farther from the palate, resulting in a cooler burn. This allows the taste buds to fully detect and appreciate the more subtle flavors in both the cigar and the cognac.
This medium-bodied cigar has an elegant and smooth profile, making it the perfect companion for Rémy Martin XO. Its tobacco blend features a Connecticut-seed wrapper grown in Ecuador under shade, a Nicaraguan binder, and long fillers from the Dominican Republic and Nicaragua.
Let’s remember: when a cigar contains tobaccos from multiple countries, it’s referred to as a cigar, while those made exclusively from one country or region’s tobaccos are called puros. So, our selection for this pairing falls into the first category.
To truly enjoy this pairing, take your time. Sip the cognac slowly, allowing its flavors to unfold before drawing from the cigar and let it rest between puffs to keep the smoke cool and preserve its creamy texture. The cooler smoke allows your palate to detect more delicate, nuanced flavors that might otherwise be lost with a hotter, closer burn. As you progress, you’ll notice the cigar evolve from a smooth, creamy start to a slightly spicier, richer finish –echoing the way XO lingers on the palate.
If you’re looking for a luxurious yet accessible pairing, this is an excellent choice. The Montecristo White Series Churchill and Rémy Martin XO complement each other beautifully, offering a smooth, flavorful, and well-balanced experience that’s easy to enjoy without breaking the bank. You won’t be disappointed.
