15 STARS has expanded its First West collection with the launch of First West Cigar Blend, a limited-release bourbon crafted for cigar and whiskey enthusiasts alike. The Bardstown, Kentucky-based producer unveiled the expression on 20 October 2026, pitching it as a bourbon to complement a cigar or to savor on its own.
The blend combines 11 and 15-year-old straight bourbons finished in Cognac, Pedro Ximénez (PX) Sherry and tawny Port casks. It carries a suggested retail price of $79.99 (£60).
According to the official notes from the brand, the nose offers deep plum, fresh pastry, warm brown sugar, baking spice and old leather, moving toward lighter citrus and banana.
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READ THE STORYThe palate delivers jammy dark fruit, crisp pear and caramel sweetness, balanced by cracked pepper, cigar box and seasoned oak. Its finish brings molasses, stewed plum and black cherry, rounded out by earthy tobacco and charred oak.
The brand said the release builds on interest from cigar drinkers who had responded to its earlier cask-finished bottlings.
“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,” said Rick Johnson, co-founder of 15 STARS. “The result is a bourbon with plenty of character to explore, whether you’re enjoying it with a cigar or just pouring a glass.”
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Co-founder Ricky Johnson recommends pairing the bourbon 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.”
Founded by the Johnsons, 15 STARS specializes in sourcing and blending high-aged American whiskeys.
The First West line is available at select retailers nationwide and online via the brand’s website.
