The Art Of Pairing: Tomahawk
The Alchemy of Flavor
Cut: Tomahawk
Preparation: Grilled
The tomahawk steak is a primal celebration of flavor and form, embodying the raw power and elegance of its namesake. With its dramatic long bone and generous marbling, the tomahawk delivers a deeply satisfying experience that’s as much about aesthetics as taste. Its rich, robust flavor is enhanced by the bone-in cut, evoking the primordial connection to fire and feast.
Revered as a centerpiece cut, the tomahawk isn't just a steak—it's a statement of indulgence, craftsmanship, and timeless culinary tradition.
Recommendation: Simple, let salt and pepper reveal the flavor.
Wine: Alpha Omega
ERA Napa Valley 2017
Its full-bodied structure, velvety tannins, and balanced acidity make it an ideal pairing for a bison or beef tomahawk steak. The wine's robust intensity mirrors the steak's bold, savory flavors, while its nuanced elegance enhances the meat's natural richness, creating a perfectly harmonious dining experience.
"This is a wine of drama, yet it is also refined, even elegant; it is a wine of extravagant amplitude yet without an ounce of excess weight." - DWWA judges
Recommendation: This is best described as a "go big or go home" play.
Whiskey: Stranahan's
Stranahan’s 10 Year, Whiskey pairs beautifully with a tomahawk steak because both embody boldness, complexity, and an air of prestige. Stranahan’s, known for its single malt craft origins, offers a flavor profile that complements the richness of a tomahawk steak. The whiskey’s caramel and honey sweetness, combined with hints of toasted oak, spice, and a touch of smokiness, enhances the steak’s deep, beefy umami.
The tomahawk’s marbling creates a luxurious mouthfeel, perfectly balanced by the whiskey’s warm, lingering finish that cuts through the richness without overpowering it. Together, they create a sensory experience that’s as much about savoring flavor as it is about celebrating indulgence and sophistication.
Recommendation: Two fingers, neat with 2 drops of water. You're welcome.
Cigar: Padrón 1964 Anniversary Series Maduro
Pairing a tomahawk steak with Stranahan's Colorado Whiskey and a Padrón 1964 Anniversary Series Maduro cigar creates a harmonious trifecta of robust flavors and sophistication. The tomahawk's rich, marbled beef is complemented by Stranahan's sweet, nutty-spicy notes, enhancing the steak's savory profile. Adding the Padrón 1964 Maduro introduces layers of nuts, toast, and chocolate, with a slightly raisiny finish, which align seamlessly with the whiskey's caramel and toffee undertones.
This combination offers a balanced and indulgent experience, where each element elevates the others, culminating in a memorable culinary and sensory journey.
Recommendation: Try a "V" cut for an easy draw.