Sticks and Spirits Review by Wolf (Old Fashioned & An Epic)

While I typically have simple tastes for a kickback drink and a smoke, there are days that I enjoy the finer things. A Rum & Coke with a clove cigar are my usual repose, but nothing beats an Old Fashioned & an Epic. Picture this if you will: Knob Creek, 2 to 3 splashes of aromatic bitters, a muddled maraschino cherry, and a splash of simple syrup over a whiskey ball.  The pièce de ré·si·stance, though, is a cedar block toasted orange slice rubbed across the rim and added to the drink, making this an ambrosia with the sweet caress of a smooth, delightful burn, certain to help you mellow out after a stressful day at work. The accompanying cigar for this smooth concoction is an Epic branded cigar called Last Rites. I’ve always had a thing for skull motifs, but having one on your cigar demands an adventurous spirit (good thing I’ve got one!).  At a friend’s suggestion, I have discovered that lighting this stick with a sulphur-free wooden match will help preserve its other-worldly taste (no pun intended). I am by no means the type to pick out 23 different notes from a stick, but I know whether I like a cigar or not. This smoke is mellow with a small power and a subtle flare that makes you want to keep puffing.  “Call from the Grave” might be another suitable name for this haunting cigar whose mellow earthiness holds quiet power over you, whispering sweet seductions to entice you to have another puff. It is a well-made cigar with little to no unraveling, and I enjoyed the first third before the ash fell on its own. With the Old Fashioned and cigar in unison it’s an entirely different experience.  The profound flavor of the drink followed by the cigar’s flavor makes for a slightly sweet, smoky euphoria that makes you want to recline and stare at the stars after a long day. I highly suggest a stronger blend drink to accompany this stick to heighten your flavor journey.