How to Smoke a Cigar: A Comprehensive Guide

Smoking a cigar is more than just lighting up; it’s an experience, a ritual, and an appreciation of fine tobacco. Whether you’re a seasoned aficionado or a curious beginner, this guide will walk you through the steps to properly smoke a cigar and savor every puff.

1. Choosing Your Cigar

  • Size: Cigars come in various sizes, measured by length and ring gauge (diameter). Common sizes include Robusto, Toro, and Churchill. Beginners might find smaller sizes more manageable.
  • Wrapper: The wrapper is the outermost leaf and significantly impacts the cigar’s flavor. Common wrapper types include Connecticut (mild), Habano (spicy), and Maduro (dark, sweet).
  • Filler: The filler is the blend of tobacco leaves inside the cigar. The blend determines the cigar’s complexity and strength.
  • Construction: Examine the cigar for any soft spots or imperfections. A well-constructed cigar should be firm but not too hard.

2. Preparing Your Cigar

Cutting the Cigar

  • Guillotine Cutter: The most common type, providing a clean, straight cut.
  • V-Cutter (Wedge Cutter): Creates a V-shaped notch, concentrating the smoke.
  • Punch Cutter: Creates a small, round hole. Best for smaller ring gauge cigars.

How to Cut:

  1. Locate the “shoulder” of the cigar, the rounded part near the head.
  2. Cut just above the shoulder, removing enough of the cap to allow for a good draw without unraveling the wrapper.

Toasting the Foot

  • Purpose: Toasting evenly ignites the foot of the cigar, ensuring a consistent burn.

How to Toast:

  1. Hold the cigar at a 45-degree angle to the flame (butane lighter or cedar spill preferred).
  2. Rotate the cigar, slowly toasting the entire foot. The foot should glow orange without actually catching fire.
  3. Avoid touching the flame directly to the cigar, as this can scorch the tobacco and create a bitter taste.

3. Lighting the Cigar

  • Purpose: Evenly ignite the foot of the cigar.

How to Light:

  1. Hold the toasted cigar near the flame, continuing to rotate it.
  2. Gently puff on the cigar as you rotate it. This will draw the flame into the tobacco.
  3. Check the burn. It should be even and consistent across the entire foot. If not, touch up any areas that haven’t lit properly.

4. Smoking the Cigar

  • Puffing Technique:
    • Take slow, deliberate puffs. Smoking a cigar is not like smoking a cigarette. Aim for one or two puffs per minute.
    • Hold the smoke in your mouth, savoring the flavors. Do not inhale into your lungs.
    • Exhale slowly, allowing the smoke to dissipate.
  • Maintaining the Ash:
    • The ash helps to regulate the cigar’s temperature and maintain its flavor.
    • Allow the ash to build up naturally, but don’t let it get too long (about an inch is ideal).
    • Gently tap the ash off when necessary into an ashtray.
  • Relighting:
    • If your cigar goes out, gently tap off any loose ash.
    • Re-toast and re-light the foot, ensuring an even burn.
  • Flavor and Body:
    • Pay attention to the flavors and aromas as you smoke. Note any changes in taste as the cigar burns.
    • The strength or “body” of the cigar will also evolve as you smoke. Be mindful of the nicotine content.

5. Ending Your Smoke

  • Extinguishing: Simply let the cigar go out on its own in the ashtray. Do not stub it out like a cigarette.
  • Enjoy the Aroma: Even after the cigar has gone out, the lingering aroma can be enjoyable.
  • Proper Disposal: Once the cigar is completely cool, dispose of it properly.

6. Tips for a Better Experience

  • Pairing: Consider pairing your cigar with a complementary beverage, such as coffee, whiskey, or rum.
  • Humidor: Store your cigars in a humidor to maintain proper humidity levels and prevent them from drying out.
  • Relaxation: Find a comfortable and relaxing environment to fully enjoy your cigar.
  • Experimentation: Try different cigars to discover your preferences.

7. Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Inhaling: Cigars are not meant to be inhaled. Doing so can be harmful and unpleasant.
  • Cutting Too Much: Cutting too far down the cigar can cause it to unravel.
  • Smoking Too Quickly: Smoking too quickly can overheat the cigar and result in a bitter taste.
  • Ignoring Storage: Improper storage can ruin the flavor and construction of your cigars.

By following these steps and tips, you can elevate your cigar smoking experience and fully appreciate the craftsmanship and flavors of a premium cigar. Happy smoking!