A campfire or backyard bonfire is one of the best settings for a cigar. There is no rush, the smoke from the fire covers a multitude of sins if the wind shifts, and a slow-burning cigar gives everyone something to do with their hands while the conversation runs long. The main thing to plan around outdoors is wind and cold: a cigar that keeps its burn even when it is gusty is worth more than one that just tastes good.
Heads up: some of the links below are affiliate links. If you buy through them we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. It never changes what we recommend.
The Cigars
What Beer to Pair With Each One
- Backwoods Cognac X.O. with an amber ale. Both are easygoing enough for a long night without asking too much attention.
- Quorum Maduro Toro with a brown ale. The Maduro wrapper’s sweetness sits well against some malt.
- Ashton Aged Maduro with a doppelbock. Something rich but not overly bitter, matching the cigar’s smoothness.
- AVO Classic with a wheat beer. Mellow on both sides, an easy pairing for a group where not everyone smokes strong cigars.
Tips for Smoking a Cigar Outdoors
- Keep a butane torch lighter in your kit. A soft flame lighter will struggle the moment there is any wind.
- Sit with the fire downwind of you if you can. It keeps woodsmoke from fighting with the cigar’s own flavor.
- A cigar case or a simple ziplock bag keeps your backup sticks dry if you are camping rather than in a backyard.
- Natural, all-tobacco wrappers like Connecticut Broadleaf tend to hold together better outdoors than delicate wrapper leaves.
More Ways to Pair Beer and Cigars
If you are hosting a bigger group, our Beer and Cigar Tasting Night guide has a full setup plan, or go back to the full beer and cigar pairing guide.
FAQ
What cigar is best for smoking outdoors around a fire?
Cigars with a sturdy, all-natural wrapper like Connecticut Broadleaf hold up better to wind and cold than more delicate wrapper leaves.
What lighter should you use for a cigar outdoors?
A butane torch lighter. Standard soft-flame lighters struggle in any wind.
What beer pairs well with a cigar around a campfire?
Amber ales, brown ales, and doppelbocks all work well outdoors. They are rich enough to hold up but not so delicate that woodsmoke overwhelms them.
