What Are the Best Non-Alcoholic Drinks to Pair with Cigars?

While cigars are often paired with spirits like whisky, rum, or cognac, many cigar lovers are discovering the rich and rewarding world of non-alcoholic pairings. Whether you're enjoying a mid-morning smoke, avoiding alcohol, or just curious to try something new, drinks like coffee, tea, and even fizzy refreshments can complement and enhance the cigar experience in unique ways.

Here’s how to pair them well—and what to look for.

Coffee & Cigars: A Natural Match

Coffee and cigars go hand in hand. Both are rich, roasted, and complex. Whether you prefer a bold espresso or a smooth pour-over, the depth of coffee works beautifully with tobacco’s natural earthiness.

Best Pairings:

• Dark roast or espresso – Ideal with full-bodied cigars. The intensity of the coffee enhances notes like cocoa, leather, and spice in stronger cigars.
• Light roast or single-origin – Pair these with milder cigars. A floral or citrusy light roast can lift a creamy Connecticut-wrapped cigar or a subtle Dominican blend.
• Iced coffee – Great for warm days or afternoon smokes. Add milk or drink it black—just keep it strong enough to stand up to your cigar.

Tip: Avoid weak or watery coffee. A cigar will overpower it quickly.

Tea & Cigars: A Refined Option

Tea is often overlooked in cigar culture, but it offers a huge range of subtle and complementary flavors. It’s especially good if you’re after something light, relaxing, and complex without being overpowering.

Best Pairings:

• Black tea (like Earl Grey or Assam) – Works well with medium-bodied cigars. The tannins and spice in the tea can cut through richness and enhance floral or woody notes.
• Green tea (like Sencha or Jasmine) – Pair with mild cigars. The delicate grassy and nutty notes of green tea bring out subtle sweetness in a smoke.
• Chai or spiced teas – For bolder cigars. The warm spices pair naturally with earthy or peppery blends.

Tip: Try steeping your tea slightly stronger than usual when pairing with a cigar—it helps the flavor stand up to the smoke.

Fizzy Drinks & Cigars: A Refreshing Surprise

Carbonated drinks might not be the first thing you think of with cigars, but they can actually offer one of the cleanest and most refreshing pairing experiences. The fizz helps reset your palate between draws, and the flavor range is surprisingly broad.

Best Pairings:

• Sparkling water (plain or citrus-flavored) – A simple and effective palate cleanser. Great with any cigar, especially richer ones.
• Cola or craft sodas – A little sweetness can balance a strong or spicy cigar. Try cola, vanilla, or cherry sodas with Nicaraguan or Maduro cigars.
• Ginger beer or root beer – These bold, spiced drinks can stand up to fuller-bodied cigars and add an interesting layer of flavor.

Tip: Look for sodas made with natural ingredients. Overly sweet or artificial drinks can clash with a cigar’s more subtle flavors.

Final Thoughts

You don’t need alcohol to enjoy a full-flavored, thoughtful cigar pairing. In fact, drinks like coffee, tea, and sparkling beverages can highlight aspects of a cigar you might otherwise miss—whether it's a creamy sweetness, a hint of spice, or a toasty undertone.

Next time you light up, try something different. A strong brew, a cup of chai, or a crisp soda might be just the thing to elevate your smoke—no spirits needed.