This week on Flavor Odyssey, we’re heading to Churchill Downs for our own cigar-smoking celebration of the Kentucky Derby. Fresh off the 152nd running of the “Run for the Roses,” your hosts dive into Kentucky Derby-inspired cigar and drink pairings that go far beyond the classic Mint Julep.

From Churchill-sized cigars to rose-themed cocktails, bourbon-forward classics, and even the essential oversized Derby hat, this episode is all about capturing the spirit of Derby Day with style and flavor. Whether you’re pairing for tradition or getting creative with your own race-day ritual, Flavor Odyssey is off to the races with plenty of fun and unexpected combinations.

Pairings

Randy: Winner’s Circle Julep & Fuente Hemingway 👍🏻
Robby: Official Mint Julep & Illusione Group of Five 👍🏻

Votes

Randy: 39%
Robby: 61%

🙋‍♂️ Audience Pairings

Nathan Stewart: Davidoff Aniversario No. 3 & Aromatic Mint Julep 👍🏻👍🏻

𝙎𝙉𝙇 -- Head over to our Smoke Night LIVE podcast for cigar interviews and entertainment: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLQ3OJ366KRotIlJb6-akfx_SKEmI45Y-k&si=Agu9o_OXidZLvcSW

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The Premium Cigar Association (PCA) Trade Show introduces hundreds of new cigars each year—but what should you pair them with? That’s where Flavor Odyssey comes in. On this episode, your hosts sample a selection of new releases and put them to the test, pairing each cigar with the perfect drink to see what truly elevates the experience. Tune in to discover which combinations hit the mark and which ones miss the boat.

Pairings

Sensei: Black and Tan & Sobremesa Tapa Negra 👎🏻
Robby: Jungle Bird & AVO Expresivo 👍🏻

Votes

Sensei: 25%
Robby: 75%

🙋‍♂️ Audience Pairings

Nathan Stewart: Davidoff Yamasá & Ember Old Fashioned 👍🏻👍🏻

𝙎𝙉𝙇 -- Head over to our Smoke Night LIVE podcast for cigar interviews and entertainment: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLQ3OJ366KRotIlJb6-akfx_SKEmI45Y-k&si=Agu9o_OXidZLvcSW

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Flavor Odyssey has gone nuts! This week, hosts Robby and Randy explore nutty-inspired cocktails featuring ingredients like Orgeat, Frangelico, Amaretto, Nocello, and Licor 43. From almond and hazelnut to walnut and beyond, these flavors can add depth and texture to a cocktail—and might be the perfect match for a premium cigar. Mix up your own nutty pairing and join the conversation.

Pairings

Randy: Dominican Mai Tai & Davidoff Puro Dominicano 👍🏻
Robby: Spiced Hazelnut Sour & Aladino Cameroon 👍🏻

Votes

Randy: 58%
Robby: 42%

🙋‍♂️ Audience Pairings

Sam Finnell: Frangelico Espresso Martini and the Perdomo Legacy Maduro 👍🏻👍🏻

𝙎𝙉𝙇 -- Head over to our Smoke Night LIVE podcast for cigar interviews and entertainment: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLQ3OJ366KRotIlJb6-akfx_SKEmI45Y-k&si=Agu9o_OXidZLvcSW

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