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Top Cigars to Smoke During the Kentucky Derby

Tagged Diesel, Romeo y Julieta, Drew Estate, Cohiba
Posted 3 days ago | 3 Minute(s) to read

The most exciting 2 minutes in sports is set to take place this Saturday, and we simply couldn’t miss this opportunity to talk about our favorite cigars to enjoy at the race track. Here are the best cigars for the Kentucky Derby — whether you plan on attending the event, going to a sports bar to watch, or enjoying it at home.

Can You Smoke at the Kentucky Derby?

Yes, you can! Churchill Downs is one of the most high-profile venues that is also cigar-friendly. Not only is cigar smoking allowed on the grounds, but cigar-smoking has become a part of the culture of the event. You can even purchase cigars at Churchill Downs itself.

The Best Cigars for the Kentucky Derby

Romeo y Julieta Run for the Roses

It would be difficult to begin this list with any other cigar. For the third year, Altadis has created a Romeo y Julieta limited-edition cigar just for the Kentucky Derby. What’s more, Romeo y Julieta Run for the Roses 152 will be available for sale at Churchill Downs during Derby week. This Nicaraguan puro is worth your time for this reason alone.

Diesel Whiskey Row Founder’s Collection Nevallier

Diesel has a long history of collaborating with the renowned Rabbit Hole Distillery, and since whiskey, cigars, and horse racing make an absolutely unbeatable trifecta, the Diesel Founder’s Collection Nevallier is a Kentucky Derby essential. Made specifically for Derby days, the latest release in the Founder’s Collection is blended with tobacco aged in the same barrels used for Rabbit Hole Nevallier, unlocking a deeper, more dynamic flavor.

Drew Estate Kentucky Fire Cured MUWAT

Everyone rightly associates great bourbon with Kentucky, but you can also find cigars with Kentucky tobacco — like Drew Estate Kentucky Fire Cured MUWAT! This is a bit of an unusual cigar with a uniquely smoky flavor profile, but it’s a great option if you’re looking to mix things up.

Weller by Cohiba (2025)

Simply put, it doesn’t get much more refined than this collaboration between two titans of their respective industries. The latest iteration of Weller by Cohiba (2025) features exceptional Cohiba tobaccos aged in Weller bourbon barrels. If you can find any of these cigars on the market, be sure to grab them for your Derby day festivities.

Padrón 60th Anniversary

Last but definitely not least, we have the Padrón 60th Anniversary — a magnificent cigar that’s certainly worthy of the winner’s circle. But don’t just take our word for it; this cigar took the #1 spot in the latest Cigar Aficionado Top Cigars of the Year list.

What’s your favorite cigar to have on Kentucky Derby day? Sign up for Cigar World and let us know with a comment!

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