Nestor Miranda has put out some incredible new blends in recent years, and the quality output we’ve received from his Miami Cigar Company has been nothing short of astounding. The Private Label Lancero is an extremely limited release: 500 boxes of 10, totaling only 5,000 cigars. If you can find this cigar, buy as many as you can.

It’s rolled in the La Aurora factory in the Dominican Republic, the Private Reserve Lancero has prominent veins, and the wrapper is a bit rustic. Pre-light, there are sweet tobacco and salt notes. On the light, there’s a rich, aged tobacco note, plus the saltiness lingers with earth. This earthy-salty richness reminds me of a potato chip. The Private Reserve Lancero burns perfectly, with the delicious flavor lingering as it burns slowly.

To pair with this delicious cigar, I chose a timeless bourbon: Pappy Van Winkle’s Special Reserve 12 Year. The Pappy brand is probably the most-recognized, highly coveted bourbon on the market, and for good reason. The flavor of honey and smoke is an excellent coupling with Miranda’s earthy, aged flavors and these two together are flavorful on the palate with a lingering richness and a dry finish. This is one of those opportunities to enjoy the best of the best from both the tobacco and spirits worlds. This is an inspired pairing. -G.M.

6 3/4 x 40 Lancero

Wrapper: Dominican Corojo

Binder: Nicaraguan Crillo 98

Filler: Brazilian, Dominican, Nicaraguan

Strength: Medium

MSRP (cigar): $18

MSRP (bourbon): $1,500