The Tasting Hour - Smoke, Sip, Savour.

Jason Bowes
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join us each month for The Tasting Hour a podcast where fine Cigars, exceptional spirits and unfiltered conversation come together. Whether you’re a seasoned aficionado or just curious about the world of Cigars and craft distilling this is your place to unwind. Expect honest reviews on Cigars and spirits, deep dives into into the Cigar industry and healthy, poor of laid-back banter and behind-the-scenes insight from tasting notes to industry trends and a few unexpected stories along the way. The Tasting Hour is your monthly ritual of good company and great tastes

Episodes

  1. May 29

    Ignite 2026 The Tasting Hour Ep 11

    On this month’s Tasting Hour Podcast, we head to Ignite 2026 to catch up with some of the biggest names in the cigar industry and discover the latest releases creating a buzz across the market — from the major cigar houses to smaller boutique brands making their mark.We also talk mental health with the men behind Men’s Shed, the inspiring Australian idea now taking hold across the UK, helping tackle loneliness, connection and wellbeing through community, conversation and shared skills.And with the warmer weather finally arriving, May’s cocktail of the month is the Bluebird — a light, refreshing cocktail perfect for sunny afternoons and relaxed evenings.Great cigars, great conversations and plenty of stories along the way.Subscribe, like and join us for another episode of The Tasting Hour.Wedmore Men's Shed is organising WEDFEST 2026 to be held in St Mary's Church on Friday 10th July.The event will be supported by Women of Wedmore and Wedmore Scouts. Commencing at 6pm it promises to be an evening of good music from local artists with food and drink available but most of all a relaxed evening of fun.Weather permitting, we hope to have a range of acts performing both outside and inside the church itself.Proceeds will go to Wedmore Men's Shed and The Somerset Prostate Screening Association (SPSA).SPSA is a registered charity and run entirely by volunteers, many with personal experience of prostate cancer and the effect it has on their lives and that of their families.links https://menssheds.org.uk/https://www.bluebirdcafewedmore.com/

    58 min

  2. Apr 24

    The Tasting Hour Ep 10

    The Tasting Hour – This Month’s Episode 🔥 This month on The Tasting Hour, we’re diving deep into craftsmanship, flavour, and a few hidden gems from the cigar world. We kick things off with the story behind Rebellion Cigars — how they started, what sets them apart, and their bold collaboration with Eddie Hall, the 2018 World’s Strongest Man. It’s a fascinating look at passion, power, and premium cigars coming together. We also sit down with the organisers of Call of the Wild Festival to chat about what’s coming up in this year’s event. Expect insights, behind-the-scenes details, and why it’s shaping up to be an unmissable event. 💨 Ever heard of purging a cigar?We break down this little-known technique in our Cigar 101 segment — what it is, why it matters, and how to do it properly. 🍸 Cocktail of the Month: The Port NegroniA rich, smooth twist on the classic, perfectly paired with this episode’s lineup. And finally, Jason and Gary get hands-on with something special — sampling a different blend from Leaf by Oscar, cigars not currently available in the UK. Expect honest reactions and plenty of flavour notes. Sit back, pour a drink, and enjoy the ride. 👉 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more monthly tastings and cigar culture. Link to call of the wild 28th to 31st May#COTWCigars and accessories at Rebelliously low prices #TastingHour #Cigars #RebellionCigars #EddieHall #CallOfTheWild #PortNegroni #Cigar101

    1h 8m
  3. The Tasting Hour Ep9

    Mar 27

    The Tasting Hour Ep9

    This Month’s Tasting Hour Join us for an evening of flavour, conversation, and discovery as we revisit some exceptional cigars and welcome a few special guests. Custom Rolled Cigars – The Big Smoke Festival We begin with a rare treat: a return to last year’s Big Smoke festival with a of custom rolled cigars. Crafted by hand at the event, these unique smokes capture the artistry and spontaneity of live rolling—each one offering its own character, depth, and story. Expect a journey through evolving flavours, from earthy undertones to subtle spice, as no two are quite the same. Oscar 2012 Red Maduro Our featured cigar this month is the Oscar 2012 Red Maduro—a rich, medium-to-full bodied smoke known for its depth and balance. Wrapped in a dark Mexican San Andrés leaf, it delivers bold notes of espresso, dark chocolate, and warming spice, with a long, satisfying finish that rewards a slower pace.  Conversation & Company Men’s Health with Tim Lewis We’re pleased to welcome Tim Lewis from the Somerset Prostate Support Association for an open and important conversation on men’s health. Insightful, informative, and relaxed—this is a chance to engage, ask questions, and support awareness in a welcoming setting. www.spas.uk Cocktail Feature The Blue Bird Café, Wedmore To complement the evening, The Blue Bird Café in Wedmore presents the first instalment in our new cocktail series. Expect something thoughtfully crafted—balancing classic technique with a modern twist—designed to pair beautifully with the richness of this month’s cigars. https://www.instagram.com/bluebirdcafewedmore?igsh=MTNsZXlramNvaXlwZQ== A relaxed evening, good company, and exceptional flavours this is one not to miss.

    54 min

  4. Feb 27

    The Tasting Hour Ep8

    🔥 This Month on The Tasting Hour 🔥 We’re joined by Scott Vines of Tor Imports for a great conversation about all things cigars. 🍀 With St Patrick’s Day around the corner, we take a quick look at some perfect celebratory smokes. ✂️ In this month’s 101, we break down how to properly cut a cigar — simple tips that make all the difference. 🌙 And of course, we light up and try the new Davidoff Late Hour to see what it’s all about. Pour yourself a dram, settle in, and join us for another relaxed and informative session.

    1h 1m
  5. The Tasting Hour Episode 7

    Jan 30

    The Tasting Hour Episode 7

    The first episode of the year of The Tasting Hour kicks off with honest conversation and bold opinions. We sit down with an author launching his first book on men’s mental health, sharing personal insights that don’t pull any punches. Gary and I reveal our top three cigars of last year—plus two disappointing picks that might ruffle a few feathers. And to round things off, Gary persuades me to try spiced rum… a decision I regret almost immediately. Expect candour, controversy, and a few uncomfortable sips.

    1h 15m

  6. 12/19/2025

    The Tasting Hour Episode Six

    🍂 This Month on The Tasting Hour 🍂 We’re back with Episode Two of our Cigar Wrapper Series, diving deeper into how wrappers shape flavour, aroma, and character. Expect proper cigar chat, honest opinions, and the usual relaxed banter. This month we’re joined by Dan from Warlock Meadery, talking all things award-winning mead — from craftsmanship and ingredients to what makes his meads stand out in a crowded field. In the glass, we explore whiskies from New Zealand and Australia, tasting how Southern Hemisphere distilling is pushing boundaries and redefining expectations. Cigars, spirits, mead, and conversation — The Tasting Hour does what it does best. 🎙️ Pour a dram, light up, and join us.

    1h 6m

  7. 11/28/2025

    The Tasting Hour Episode 5

    This month, Jason sits down with Guy Smith of Smith & Evans, diving into his fascinating journey through the wine world — from working with major brands to building his own award-winning English wines. Plus, Gary kicks off a brand-new Cigar Wrapper 101 (the first of a three-part series!) and, of course… all the usual chat, banter, and discoveries you love.  Tune in, pour a glass, and join the conversation!

    58 min

  8. 10/31/2025

    The Tasting Hour Ep 4

    This Month on The Tasting Hour As Remembrance Day approaches, we take a moment to reflect — and to savour. Join us as we sit down with Nick from Trident Military Cigars, who shares the story behind his remarkable brand and the meaning woven into every leaf. Then, Guy Smith of Smith & Evans joins us to explore the art of wine tasting — from first swirl to final sip — and how to truly unlock a bottle’s character. Meanwhile, Gary lights up his pipe, and we answer your burning questions about cigar and drink pairings, rituals, and relaxation. Pour a glass, cut a cigar, and settle in for another hour of fine taste, good company, and quiet reflection — only on The Tasting Hour.

    56 min

  9. 09/26/2025

    The Tasting Hour Episode three

    In this month’s episode of the Tasting Hour Gary tries the legendary PARTAGÁS CULEBRAS for the first time! Twisted cigar, epic whisky tasting 🥃, and a food pairing adventure you didn’t know you needed. Flavour rollercoaster? Absolutely. Your taste buds are invited. 😏 #TastingHour #CigarLovers #WhiskyTime #FoodieAdventure

    59 min

  10. 08/29/2025

    The Tasting Hour episode two

    🔥 Episode 2 of The Tasting Hour is here! 🔥 This month we sit down with cigar royalty Rocky Patel for an unforgettable conversation about the craft, culture, and passion behind the leaf. We also take a look back at the very first Summer Time Smoke Festival in Britain — a landmark celebration for cigar lovers everywhere. And of course, expect plenty of laughs and lively discussion with your hosts Jason and Gary, diving into the stories, flavours, and moments that make this lifestyle so unique.

    1h 5m

  11. 07/25/2025

    The Tasting Hour podcast episode one

    Coming up on the 1st episode of The Tasting Hour 🔥🔥🔥 In our very first episode, Gary and I kick things off with some laid-back chat and introduce what’s to come. We also sit down with Michal from Davidoff to dive into the rich history of the brand — and where it’s headed next. If you’re into premium cigars, stories behind legendary brands, and good conversation, this one’s for you. Don’t forget to subscribe if you like the show 👌🏻

    1h 1m
  • 11 Episodes

About

join us each month for The Tasting Hour a podcast where fine Cigars, exceptional spirits and unfiltered conversation come together. Whether you’re a seasoned aficionado or just curious about the world of Cigars and craft distilling this is your place to unwind. Expect honest reviews on Cigars and spirits, deep dives into into the Cigar industry and healthy, poor of laid-back banter and behind-the-scenes insight from tasting notes to industry trends and a few unexpected stories along the way. The Tasting Hour is your monthly ritual of good company and great tastes

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