Pairing cognac with food and cigars

Cognac is a very versatile drink. It may be drunk neat, over ice or diluted with a little water. It can be mixed with quality mixers, such as soda or traditional lemonade to make a long drink, or used to make a cocktail. For a range of Martell cocktails to try, see our cocktails section.

Like with any good wine, understanding the essentials of Martell cognac food pairing or cigar pairing can augment your tasting experience in delicious new ways. Whether with chocolate, main dishes, dessert or cigars, pairing with cognac can tickle your taste buds and stimulate your senses.

Access to our masterclass to have cognac food and cigars pairing ideas.

Take a sip of the cognac, enough that you can slowly roll it over the tongue and the back of the mouth allowing it to coat all the key sensors on your tongue. Taste at the tip for sweetness, the back for bitterness and at the sides for saltiness and sourness. Keep the cognac in the mouth for about ten seconds to release as much of the flavour as possible.

Each Martell cognac has its specific flavour, style and character. That’s why cognac is one of the best gifts for someone who has everything. When it comes to choosing a cognac, the bottle you choose depends on you and how you want to enjoy it. The Martell Gift Ideas Matchmaker can help you choose a cognac as a gift or for yourself.

Pairing cigars and cognac requires knowledge and care. But when the right aromas merge in the mouth, the palate is treated to a remarkable savoury experience.

Younger cognacs, such as this Martell VS, are round and fruity. Look for a less rich cigar, with a weaker body that will not overpower. Dominican cigars adapt very well to young cognacs.

A middle-aged cognac, like Martell VSOP, also combines well with Dominican cigars. Favour those with fine and spicy sweetness that are easy to smoke, or have a medium-bodied profile.

Older cognacs acquire roundness and finesse during the long stay in barrels. This gives a persistence in the mouth that can resist the conquering force of stronger cigars such as the Havana.

Watch video on pairing cognac with cigars