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Southern Draw Jacob's Ladder: A Bold and Complex Smoke

If you’re a fan of full-bodied cigars, the Southern Draw Jacob's Ladder is one to experience. Launched in 2017, this cigar quickly earned a reputation for its strength and complexity, making it a top choice for enthusiasts. Southern Draw, led by Robert and Sharon Holt, has built a brand that reflects Southern values and family dedication. The name "Jacob's Ladder" carries both biblical significance and honors their son, Ethan Jacob​.

Construction and Craftsmanship

The Jacob's Ladder is crafted at the AJ Fernandez factory in Nicaragua and boasts a dark Pennsylvania Broadleaf Maduro wrapper. This oily and richly textured wrapper adds to the cigar’s bold aesthetic. The binder is Ecuadorian Maduro, and the filler is a potent blend of Nicaraguan ligero tobaccos from the Estelí and Jalapa regions, making this cigar a powerhouse of flavor and strength​.

Every detail of the Jacob’s Ladder is crafted with precision. The dual blue and gold bands lend it a refined look, while the tight seams and oily sheen promise a premium smoking experience​.

Facts for New Smokers 🌟

Here are some quick essentials for anyone who might be new to cigars or this specific blend:

• Length: 6 inches

• Ring Gauge: 52

• Shape: Toro

• Strength: Full-bodied 🌶️

• Wrapper: Pennsylvania Broadleaf Maduro

• Binder: Ecuadorian Maduro

• Filler: Nicaraguan ligero (Estelí and Jalapa)

• Smoking Time: 90-115 minutes

• Ideal For: Experienced smokers seeking bold flavors and a complex, long-lasting smoke.

Flavor Journey

First Third: The Peppery Start 🔥

The Jacob’s Ladder opens with a burst of black pepper, covering the palate before transitioning into rich notes of dark chocolate and espresso. The flavors are intense, yet balanced​.

Second Third: The Earthy Core 🌳

As you reach the middle, the flavors deepen with dominant notes of oak, black coffee, and leather. There’s also a slight sweetness, thanks to hints of black cherry and a smoother cinnamon retrohale​.

Final Third: A Bold Finale 💥

The final third returns to its peppery roots, but introduces additional notes of cedar, toasted wood, and occasional bursts of dark fruit. The bold finish makes this cigar’s conclusion just as memorable as the start​.

Perfect Pairings 🍷

• Whiskey: Pair with Lagavulin 16-Year-Old Scotch for a smoky, rich complement to the cigar’s bold flavors.

• Wine: A bold Zinfandel enhances the cigar’s earthy and spicy notes, creating a perfect balance.

• Non-Alcoholic: Espresso is an ideal choice, bringing out the cigar’s dark chocolate and coffee tones​.

Final Thoughts

The Southern Draw Jacob’s Ladder is not just a cigar, it’s an experience. It offers a full-bodied journey through rich, complex flavors that evolve with each third. Whether paired with a smoky Scotch or a strong espresso, this cigar promises a bold and satisfying experience for those who love strength and depth in their smoke.

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Yamazaki 12 Year Old: The Quintessential Japanese Whiskey

A True Icon of Japanese Craftsmanship

The Yamazaki 12 Year Old Single Malt is more than just whiskey—it's a symbol of Japanese craftsmanship. Produced by the world-renowned Suntory Distillery, this whiskey has played a major role in bringing Japanese whiskey to global prominence. Its delicate flavors, combined with innovative aging techniques, make it a standout in the world of single malts.

The Distillery's Heritage

Award-Winning Excellence

🏆 Over the years, Yamazaki 12 Year Old has garnered numerous accolades. Among its most prestigious are the Gold Award at the International Spirits Challenge and the Double Gold Medal at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition. Its consistent quality has earned it the reputation of being one of the finest single malts globally, putting Japanese whiskey on the map.

Production and Aging Method

Yamazaki 12 is crafted with a mix of malt whiskies, aged in a combination of American oak, Spanish oak, and the distinctive Mizunara oak. The aging process lasts for at least 12 years, allowing the whiskey to develop rich, layered flavors. The use of Mizunara barrels adds a touch of incense-like fragrance, making this whiskey uniquely Japanese.

Tasting Experience

• Appearance: A deep golden amber hue, reflecting the time spent in the oak barrels.

• Nose: Fruity aromas of apricot, honey, and a touch of vanilla greet you, along with subtle floral hints.

• Palate: On the palate, expect flavors of dried fruit, cinnamon, and creamy vanilla, balanced with light oak.

• Finish: The finish is smooth and lingering, leaving traces of spiced oak and sweet dried fruits.

Perfect Pairings

For a cigar pairing, try the Arturo Fuente Hemingway Short Story, which matches the whiskey's smooth, fruity notes. In terms of snacks, brie cheese or dark chocolate (70% cocoa) complement the rich flavors of the whiskey beautifully.

Price and Final Thoughts

💵 Yamazaki 12 Year Old is undeniably a premium whiskey, often retailing for over $150. While it may not be the cheapest option, its award-winning quality and layered complexity make it worth every penny for serious whiskey lovers. Whether enjoyed neat or with a cigar, this whiskey offers an elegant experience you won’t forget.

 ✅ Updates From The Cigar & Whiskey World 📰

Latest From The World Of Cigars

🌟 Macanudo Emissary España Torpedo Released

Macanudo has just released a limited-edition addition to their Emissary España line, a 6 x 52 torpedo featuring rare tobaccos. This release is aimed at collectors and those seeking a refined smoking experience. 🔥 Read the story here!

🧨 J.C. Newman Cigar Co. Unveils ‘The Troublemaker’

The latest in the Diamond Crown Julius Caeser line, ‘The Troublemaker’ is a luxurious new cigar. At 5.75 x 54, it delivers rich and robust flavors, continuing J.C. Newman's legacy of excellence. 🌿 Read the story here!

🔄 Diesel Sideshow Sampler Returns

Diesel fans rejoice! The much-loved Sideshow Sampler is back, featuring seven unique blends that showcase Diesel’s bold, distinctive cigars. Perfect for those who love variety in their smokes! 💨 Read the story here!

🎁 La Aurora Announces Lancero Collection

La Aurora is getting festive with the release of a limited-edition Lancero Collection. This holiday collection features ten cigars from five of their best blends. A must-have for Lancero enthusiasts! 🎄 Read the story here!

✈️ Bond Roberts Launches Línea D No.01

Bond Roberts Cigars has debuted their second release, the Línea D No.01. Available now in London, it will roll out globally in 2025. Smokers in London are getting the first taste of this premium cigar. 👑 Read the story here!

Latest From The World Of Whiskeys

🥃 Westward Whiskey Milestone Limited Edition Released

Celebrating its 20th anniversary, Westward Whiskey has unveiled its Milestone release. Crafted using a 21-barrel Solera system, this complex American whiskey evolves each year, making every release truly unique. The 2024 edition offers notes of honeysuckle, peach streusel, and fig jam, with a price tag of $249.95. 🔥 Read the story here!

🏆 King of Kentucky 16-Year Bourbon Hits Shelves

The ultra-premium King of Kentucky Bourbon has launched its seventh edition, featuring a 16-year-old Kentucky Straight Bourbon. With only 5,100 bottles available, this limited release is priced at $349.99 and is sought after by bourbon aficionados for its rich flavors of dark chocolate and sweet coconut. 🍫 Read the story here!

🔥 Penelope Bourbon Releases 2024 Estate Collection

Penelope Bourbon is making waves with the launch of its 2024 Estate Collection, a premium release showcasing expertly blended aged straight bourbon whiskeys and hand-selected single barrels. This collection highlights Penelope’s dedication to innovation and craftsmanship. 🍂 Read the story here!

🐉 Glen Scotia Icons of Campbeltown: Release No. 2

Glen Scotia has introduced the second in its Icons of Campbeltown collection. This 14-year-old single malt is finished in Barolo red wine casks, creating a smoky, fruity flavor profile with a long, dry finish. 🥀 Read the story here!

👗 Royal Salute Launches Harris Reed Edition

In collaboration with renowned designer Harris Reed, Royal Salute has released the 21-Year-Old Harris Reed Edition. This limited-edition scotch features a blend of sherry-matured and American oak malts, wrapped in eye-catching, couture-inspired packaging. 🎨 Read the story here!

Carolina Clash: Vinegar vs. Ketchup 🍖🔥

The Carolinas are a BBQ battleground, with one fiery debate at the center: vinegar-based or ketchup-based sauce? This sauce rivalry defines the BBQ culture across North and South Carolina.

The Origins of Carolina BBQ 🐷

BBQ in the Carolinas has deep roots dating back to the 18th century. The early settlers and enslaved people brought their cooking traditions to the table, focusing on slow-cooked pork. Over time, the BBQ style split, creating two distinct flavors: the tangy vinegar-based sauces in North Carolina and the sweeter ketchup-based sauces in South Carolina.

North Carolina BBQ 🍖

Eastern North Carolina is famous for its whole-hog BBQ, served with a simple, tangy vinegar-based sauce. This thin sauce, made of vinegar, red pepper flakes, and hot sauce, is perfect for cutting through the rich pork flavor. Head to Western NC, and you’ll find the vinegar sauce with a touch of tomato—a slight sweetness that still packs the punch of vinegar.

Recipe: NC Vinegar BBQ Sauce

• 2 cups apple cider vinegar 🍏

• 1 tablespoon red pepper flakes 🌶️

• 1 tablespoon hot sauce

• 1 tablespoon sugar

• 1 teaspoon salt 🧂

Mix all ingredients and let sit for 1 hour. Use as a baste or finishing sauce for pulled pork!

South Carolina BBQ 🍅

South Carolina’s BBQ brings a different flavor with ketchup-based sauces. These sauces are sweeter, thicker, and stick to the meat, creating a balance of sweet and savory. Pitmasters often pair this with smoked pork or ribs, letting the sauce soak in for a rich flavor.

Recipe: SC Ketchup BBQ Sauce

• 1 cup ketchup 🍅

• ¼ cup apple cider vinegar

• ¼ cup brown sugar

• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce 🥫

Combine all ingredients and simmer for 10 minutes. Perfect for ribs or BBQ chicken!

The BBQ Battle Continues 🥊

Whether you’re team vinegar or team ketchup, there’s no denying the passion behind Carolina BBQ. Both styles bring their own unique flavor, and the only way to truly settle the debate is to try them both!

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