Review: Copper and Cask Cigar Blend Whiskey Batch 10

By Jacob Kiper | April 21, 2025 |

Launched in 2021 by Latitude Beverage, Copper and Cask is an independent bottler dedicated to offering exceptional single barrel selections and unique cask-strength small-batch releases. The Small Batch Series made its debut in the fall of 2023, and the spring of 2025 marks the milestone release of its tenth batch. One of the standout offerings in this series is the Copper and Cask Small Batch Series Cigar Blend Whiskey, Batch 10, which is finished in both Armagnac and Port barrels and aged for an impressive 20 years.

The concept of cigar blends has enjoyed immense popularity in the American whiskey scene, with roots tracing back to Nancy Fraley’s pioneering work on Joseph Magnus Cigar Blend. Fraley introduced the use of multiple finishing casks to create a layered, complex flavor profile. The success of Joseph Magnus Cigar Blend inspired numerous distillers and blenders to follow suit, developing their own versions of cigar blends. However, Fraley herself points out that a true cigar blend doesn’t necessarily involve finishing casks. As demonstrated by her work with Still Austin Tanger Cigar Blend Bourbon, which forgoes any finishing cask, a genuine cigar blend is all about creating a whiskey designed to complement the flavors of a fine cigar. These blends originated in the Cognac world more than 30 years ago. Typically, the spirit is distilled “on the lees” (with dead yeast cells still present), lending the spirit additional weight, along with rich nutty, tobacco, and leather notes that develop over long maturation.

While the original intention of Cognac’s “cigare” blends was far removed from the idea of finishing casks, the term “cigar blend” in the American whiskey industry has become inextricably linked with this technique.

This unique expression is a blend of 15 barrels of Canadian whisky distilled by Alberta Distillers Limited. After more than 19 years of aging in original barrels, the whiskey was blended in micro-batches and rebarreled in a mix of Armagnac and Tawny Port barrels for several months before marrying. The result is a whiskey bottled at a bold 145.2 proof—often referred to by enthusiasts as “hazmat.” This term stems from the Hazardous Materials Regulations (HMR), which prohibit the transportation of beverage alcohol over 140 proof in airline baggage.

Copper and Cask is offering a meticulously aged blended whiskey with bold finishes and a powerhouse proof. Known for its stellar past releases, the brand has earned a reputation for crafting exceptional spirits. But does Batch 10 continue the legacy? Let’s dive in and see if the hype is truly justified!

Copper and Cask Cigar Blend Whiskey Batch 10 Review

The nose opens boldly with a nostalgic hit of roasted corn nuts, which quickly gives way to the scent of rising bread dough. With a bit of patience, sweeter aromas surface—canned mandarin oranges and a drizzle of vanilla glaze add a brightness to the bouquet.

On the palate, a dash of ripe raspberry commands attention, followed closely by a more understated lemon zest that lingers just long enough to keep things lively. The midpalate delivers a layered fruitiness, conjuring images of pomegranate seeds nestled into buttery shortbread. There’s a distinct callback to those classic thumbprint cookies filled with red jelly—both playful and grounded.

The mouthfeel begins with a heavy, almost greasy viscosity that’s swiftly replaced by a pronounced ethanol bite—a reminder of its high proof without veering into harshness. The finish leans nostalgic again, with a whisper of Ovaltine, though the chocolate is more suggestion than presence. A fleeting note of flan adds a gentle creaminess before raspberry reasserts itself, dragging out the final act with an impressive persistence, accompanied by a warm, lingering burn.

Hazmat bottlings often tilt toward raw power at the expense of finesse. Copper and Cask has resisted that trend, delivering a bold yet well-composed whiskey that manages to retain complexity without compromising on its unapologetic strength. At $80, this limited release (only 1,800 bottles) feels like a smart pickup for those looking to experience a rare balance of proof and personality.

145.2 proof.

A- / $80 / copperandcaskspirits.com