15 STARS is expanding its First West collection with the debut of First West Cigar Blend, a limited-release expression crafted with both cigar and bourbon enthusiasts in mind. Bringing together high-aged straight bourbons and distinctive finishing casks, the bold blend is designed to complement a cigar or savor on its own.

First West Cigar Blend combines 11 and 15 year old straight bourbons finished in cognac, Pedro Ximénez Sherry, and tawny port casks. The result is a layered bourbon with notes of rich fruit, warm spice and seasoned oak, brought to a final proof of 106 by using 15 STARS’ Flavor Proofing process.

“Some of our previous expressions have resonated with cigar enthusiasts who enjoy the blends of finishing casks we have used, so we wanted to build on that interest with a release that puts the pairing front and center,” Rick Johnson, co-founder of 15 STARS, said in a news release. “The result is a bourbon with plenty of character to explore, whether you’re enjoying it with a cigar or just pouring a glass.”

Ricky Johnson, co-founder of 15 STARS, recommends pairing First West Cigar Blend with a medium to full-bodied cigar. 

“The expression was blended with plenty of character and boldness to stand up to the smoke of a full-bodied cigar,” he said. “That’s why we chose rich cask finishes that bring out dark fruit and confectionery notes, alongside well-aged bourbons with ample time to develop in oak.”

The 15 STARS First West line is available at select retailers nationwide and online at 15STARS.com. 

Read more: 15 STARS Launches New Kentucke County Brand

About 15 STARS Portfolio

15 STARS Fine Aged Bourbon crafts award-winning whiskey from their exclusive and unique high-aged whiskey stocks. Founded by father and son master blenders Rick and Ricky Johnson, the brand has received over 200 of the world’s most coveted whiskey awards including numerous “best in class” recognitions. Always in pursuit of complexity and depth of flavor, 15 STARS distills over a dozen different mash bills in Bardstown, KY, some of which include proprietary heirloom corn varieties (black, red, white, and blue) that the family grows for its specialty popcorn business, Black Jewell Popcorn. The brand name 15 STARS pays homage to Kentucky as the 15th state from Kentucky’s recognition on the second US flag with 15 stars and 15 stripes which was authorized by the US Congress and President George Washington in 1795. For more information, visit 15STARS.com.