Buddy’s DC Cigar Education Residency

Buddy’s DC is proud to introduce a Cigar Education Residency with Resident Cigar Educator Mechelle Merkerson, offering curated monthly classes for beginners, enthusiasts, and anyone interested in learning about cigars. Each session is designed to elevate your understanding, refine your palate, and provide an intimate, engaging educational experience.

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Smoke & Spirit: An evening of Premium Cigars & Bourbon

Bourbon & Cigar Education

Discover the art of pairing premium cigars with bourbon in a refined, two-hour guided session. Guests will enjoy a hands-on learning experience exploring cigar craftsmanship, tasting techniques, and bourbon pairing principles.

What’s Included:

• Two-hour guided cigar education session

• Premium cigars (one to enjoy during class, one to take home)

• Bourbon pairing curated to complement the featured cigar

• Hands-on tobacco education, including physical tobacco leaves

• Visual aids and storytelling exploring cigar craftsmanship and origin

About the Featured Resident | Mechelle Merkerson

Mechelle Merkerson is the founder of Cigars with “M,” a cigar education company dedicated to educating and elevating today’s cigar consumer. A Certified Cigar Sommelier, Mechelle curates consumer, private, corporate, and wedding cigar experiences.

Her expertise is grounded in hands-on study in Honduras and the Dominican Republic, where she explored tobacco cultivation, blending, and production. With over 184 educational episodes, Mechelle is known for making cigar education accessible, refined, and engaging.