What is the proper way to smoke a cigar

Today we talk about What is the proper way to smoke a cigar.

As I settled into my favorite spot on a warm evening with a fine cigar in hand, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of connection to a rich tradition. According to market research, the U.S. cigar market was valued at approximately $14 billion as of 2020, and as a cigar aficionado, it’s important to understand the proper way to smoke a cigar to enjoy this beautiful experience to its fullest. This article aims to guide you through the nuances of smoking a cigar properly, ensuring you can savor every moment.

Smoking Your First Cigar

Tips for Beginners

During my first cigar experience, I wished I had known these specific tips:

Start with a mild or medium-bodied cigar. Brands like Macanudo are popular for newcomers.
Do not rush the experience. Cigars can take anywhere from 30 minutes to two hours to smoke.
Find a comfortable place, like a friends’ backyard or a local lounge, where you can feel relaxed.
Stay hydrated; drink water or a mild beverage like ginger ale to cleanse your palate.

Do You Inhale the Cigar?

Understanding Cigar Smoking Techniques

No, inhaling a cigar is not recommended. The average cigar can contain between 100 to 200 times the nicotine of a cigarette, which means inhaling the smoke could lead to adverse effects. Instead, I take slow puffs, allowing the smoke to linger in my mouth to appreciate the complex flavors without inhaling deeply into my lungs.

Cigar Recommendations for Beginners

Choosing Your First Cigar

When selecting your first cigar, consider these approachable options:

Montecristo White Series—a mild cigar that’s silky smooth.
Romeo y Julieta 1875—offers a nice balance of creaminess and spice.
Cohiba Green Dot—a bit pricier but known for its quality; perfect for special occasions.

These selections typically cost between $7 to $15, providing a perfect introduction to premium cigars without overwhelming the palate.

Cigar 101: The Proper Way to Smoke a Premium Cigar

Overview of Cigar Smoking

Cigar smoking is a multi-step process that requires patience, knowledge, and appreciation for craftsmanship. Each cigar is handmade, often taking up to a year to produce, and understanding the nuances enhances the experience exponentially.

#1: Choose Your Cigar Depending on the Time You Have

Short vs. Long Smoking Sessions

The length of your cigar can dictate how long you’ll enjoy it. For instance, a Robusto cigar usually smokes for about 45 minutes, while a Churchill can last up to two hours. When time is limited, I often prefer a shorter cigar like a Petit Corona, which provides a similar depth of flavor in less time.

#2: Ensure That Your Cigar Was Properly Stored

The Importance of Humidity

Did you know that cigars are best stored at a humidity level between 68-72%? Using a humidor is key to maintaining these levels, as dry cigars can lose essential oils and flavors. In fact, cigars exposed to low humidity levels will dry out in under a week! I ensure my humidor is equipped with a digital hygrometer for precise monitoring.

#3: There’s No Right or Wrong When It Comes to Cutting

Different Cutting Techniques Explained

When it comes to cutting your cigar, there are various methods, including:

Straight cut—most preferred, where I take a clean cut just above the cap.
V-cut—different draw characteristics, allowing for a unique smoking experience.
Guillotine cut—a clean, precise cut that is popular among enthusiasts.

Taking the time to cut properly can significantly enhance the draw and overall smoking experience.

#4: Your Method of Lighting Again Depends on Time

Best Tools for Lighting Your Cigar

I often use a butane torch lighter, which gives a clean burn free from any additional flavor. However, using wooden matches adds a traditional feel. For special occasions, I’ve invested in an affordable cedar spill—perfect for imparting subtle flavors without charring the cigar.

#5: Proceed with Caution — But Confidence

Having a Calm Approach to Smoking

It’s essential to smoke at a steady pace, ideally taking a puff about every minute or so. This works out to around 1 puff per minute, allowing the cigar to cool and preventing bitterness, which can occur if the cigar is smoked too quickly.

#6: Learn What Drink Pairs Best With Your Specific Cigar

Popular Drink Pairings with Cigars

Pairing your cigar with a beverage can elevate the experience significantly. Some popular drink pairings include:

Single malt Scotch—its complexity complements rich cigars.
Espresso—adds a delightful contrast to sweeter cigars.
Cognac—its smoothness enhances the experience of a robust cigar.

#7: Always Smoke Your Cigar in One Sitting

The Benefits of a Singular Smoking Experience

When I smoke a cigar, I always finish it in one sitting, as relighting can alter its flavor profile. Cigar smokers often note that a cigar can change dramatically from the first third to the last. In fact, most of the flavor is in the first half, which can be lost if you keep relighting it.

Cutting Your Cigar Properly

Step-by-Step Cutting Guide

Here’s how I properly cut my cigar:

Choose a sharp cutter to avoid tearing.
Identify the cap, typically the rounded end.
Cut about a quarter inch from the cap, avoiding cutting too much.
Check for a clean cut for optimal airflow.

Lighting Your Cigar Correctly

Methods and Techniques for Lighting

When lighting, first toast the foot of the cigar until it glows, which prepares the tobacco for a better light. I prefer maintaining a distance of approximately one inch from the flame to avoid charring, as even heat distribution is key for the best experience.

Smoking Techniques

How to Enjoy Your Cigar

While smoking, I let the cigar rest for 30 seconds between puffs to enjoy its full bouquet. The key is to never rush the smoke; patience often reveals hidden flavor notes that might be missed otherwise.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

What Not to Do When Smoking a Cigar

Some common mistakes I’ve learned to avoid include:

Rushing through smoking, which diminishes flavor.
Inhaling smoke, which can be overwhelming.
Neglecting the humidity of cigars, leading to dry flavors.

Aftercare: What To Do With Your Cigar

Proper Disposal of Cigar Remains

After enjoying a cigar, it’s important to let the ash cool completely before disposing of it. A lit cigar can reach temperatures of 400°F, so care is essential. Proper disposal reflects respect for the craft and environment.

FAQ

How do you properly smoke a cigar?

Properly smoking a cigar involves selecting one suited to your schedule, cutting it correctly, using the right lighting method, and enjoying slow, deliberate puffs to appreciate every flavor without inhaling.

What not to do when smoking a cigar?

Avoid inhaling, rushing the smoke, and mismanaging humidity, as these mistakes can detract from the experience of properly enjoying a good cigar.

Do you bite a cigar when you smoke it?

No, biting damages the cap and draw of the cigar. Always cut it cleanly with the appropriate tool for the best experience.

Do you smoke a cigar all the way down?

While it’s ideal to enjoy a cigar until it’s nearly finished, you should stop if it becomes bitter. Balance is key in ensuring a satisfying experience.