| Rating | 95 |
| Style |
Bourbon American Whiskey Whiskey |
| Produced In | United States |
| ABV | 60% |
| Availability | Year Round |
| Price | $200.00 |
| Reviewed By | |
| Reviewed | 2026-02-18 |
Joseph Magnus Cigar Blend Bourbon Review
A watershed release, now entering its 10th year (and its 489th batch), that remains the standard-bearer for the now ubiquitous cigar blend category that remains a buzzy sensation among bourbon fans. When master blender Nancy Fraley first engineered a blend of well-aged bourbons finished in sherry, Cognac, and Armagnac casks back in 2016, she was simply trying to craft an ideal pairing for her beloved stogies. A decade later, and over 500 batches created, it is only getting better. (For comparison, I tasted a batch No. 2 I still had from back in 2017 and found this modern release superior.) This release was built on 10 year-old MGP bourbon, 17-year-old Barton’s high-rye bourbon, and 20-year-old high-rye MGP bourbon. It’s deep and rich on the palate, with notes of sticky toffee pudding, Nocino liqueur, wallet leather, and something just a bit savory too. Whether paired alongside a smoke, or perhaps dessert, this remains a sui generis pour every serious whiskey drinker should try one day. If a decade ago its two-bill price tag seemed a bit high, today it is downright reasonable.
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