Cigar box is a wine-tasting descriptor for aromas reminiscent of cedar, tobacco leaves, dried leaves and the interior of a wooden cigar box. It is commonly used for mature red Bordeaux and other Cabernet-based wines, where oak ageing and bottle development may contribute to a complex savoury bouquet.
The descriptor may appear alongside cedar, pencil shavings, leather, dried herbs and dark fruit. It is an analogy used by tasters rather than evidence that tobacco or cigar materials were used in winemaking.
Example: a mature Pauillac or Saint-Julien may show cigar-box character alongside cassis, cedar and earthy notes.
Related terms: tobacco describes a related dried-leaf aroma; cedar suggests a woody note; savoury is a broader category for non-fruit flavours.
This term is one of hundreds covered in depth across OCS courses, learning paths, and 1-on-1 coaching with Chef Eric.
