Cigars and Horse Racing: Our Top Picks

The Kentucky Derby is one of the finest spectacles in all of sports. While the race only lasts around 2 minutes, the day is filled with pageantry, partying, and plenty of cigars! Indeed, horse racing is a fantastic occasion for lighting up a premium cigar. So whether you’re headed to Kentucky for the “Run for the Roses,” or you’re just looking for a great cigar for horse racing, we’ve got you covered. 

Can You Smoke at the Racetrack?

While each facility has its own rules, and most venues won’t let you smoke indoors, the horse track is one of the few modern safe havens for cigar smoking. Often, cigar smoking is allowed in the outdoor sections (or designated smoking sections) of a track. For those curious, Churchill Downs only restricts smoking indoors, outdoors where food is served, or in the Spires Terrace.

The Best Cigars for Horse Racing

Diesel Whiskey Row Founder’s Collection Raceking

Diesel has collaborated with Rabbit Hole several times, but the latest release in the Whiskey Row series is ideal for enjoying at the track. Named “Raceking”, the new, limited-edition cigar features a Nicaraguan binder aged in Rabbit Hole Raceking bourbon barrels. Crafted at AJ Fernandex Cigars de Nicaragua S.A., this Toro makes a fabulous addition to any racing occasion. 

Romeo y Julieta Run for the Roses

Romeo y Julieta is following up last year’s Kentucky Derby cigar with a second smoke made in partnership with the Derby and Churchill Downs. Romeo y Julieta Run for the Roses is a Nicaraguan Puro produced in limited quantities. Not only does the cigar packaging feature co-branding with the Kentucky Derby, but it’s available for sale at Churchill Downs during the 151st running of the race itself. 

Drew Estate Kentucky Fire Cured MUWAT

While other cigars on this list boast ties to horse racing or Kentucky bourbon, Drew Estate’s Kentucky Fire Cured MUWAT has something else going for it: actual tobacco from Kentucky (and Virginia). Note for seasoned smokers, that this is an unusual cigar because it contains fire-cured tobacco leaves. This is a process normally reserved for pipe or chewing tobacco, and it gives this cigar a uniquely smoky and hickory-heavy flavor profile. 

Weller by Cohiba 2024

Both Cohiba and Weller are synonymous with luxury and elegance. So it’s no surprise that their latest collaboration — Weller by Cohiba 2024 — is a triumphant, Ecuadorian Sumatra-wrapped cigar characterized by indulgent flavor and a smooth finish. We recommend lighting one up with a glass of Weller on the rocks to celebrate your next win, at the track or otherwise. 

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