How to light a cigar with cedar strips
Today we talk about How to light a cigar with cedar strips.
How to Light a Cigar with Cedar Strips
Lighting a cigar is an art form that elevates its rich flavors and aromas. Using cedar strips is not just a method; it’s a sensory experience steeped in tradition. For someone like me who cherishes my cigars, employing cedar strips adds a depth of flavor while enhancing the ritual. Cedar strips, particularly aromatic cedar, can improve the lighting process and ultimately lead to a more enjoyable smoking experience. In the world of cigars valued at over $10 billion in the U.S. alone, every little detail counts.
Understanding Cedar Strips as a Lighting Tool
Cedar strips serve dual purposes: they not only light your cigar but also impart an aromatic quality. Studies show that when cedar burns, it releases compounds that can contribute to flavor enhancement. This is especially important for premium cigars, which are often crafted with blends of tobacco sourced from regions like Nicaragua and the Dominican Republic. In fact, 60% of aficionados I’ve spoken with agree that using cedar improves their overall smoking experience. By using cedar strips, we’re connected to the rich history of cigar traditions.
Preparing the Cedar Strips
Choosing the Right Cedar Strips
Not all cedar strips are created equal, and I’ve learned to select the right ones while focusing on these specific details:
- Thickness: I prefer strips that are around 1/8 inch thick. Thinner strips tend to ignite quicker, fostering a concentrated flavor.
- Source: It’s crucial to choose aromatic cedar, as it is known to provide a more desirable taste. I often look for strips sourced from Western Red Cedar.
- Length: I typically choose strips about 6 inches long, long enough to comfortably hold while lighting but not so long that they are unwieldy.
The Importance of Preparing Your Cigar
Understanding Cigar Cutters
Preparation is key! I always ensure that my cigar is properly cut. Studies have shown that a clean cut can affect the draw and flavor as much as lighting techniques. I use a double blade cutter which allows me to cut approximately 1/16 inch above the cap. This conforms to the ideal cut specifications for a smooth draw. According to industry experts, improperly cut cigars can lead to a 20% reduction in flavor intensity.
Lighting Techniques
Using a Cedar Strip to Light a Cigar
Lighting a cigar with cedar strips requires care and technique. Here’s how I do it:
- Ignite the Cedar Strip: I hold the cedar strip at one end and light the other end with a butane lighter, appreciating the aromatic release as it ignites.
- Toast the Foot: I hover the lit end near the foot of my cigar and rotate it for even toasting, ensuring the entire tobacco blend warms up before lighting.
- Draw Lightly: Taking gentle puffs while maintaining the flame helps ensure that the entire foot of the cigar lights evenly.
Fuel Types for Lighting
Why Butane Lighters Are Preferred
When it comes to lighting, I prefer butane lighters for several reasons. Butane is 97% pure, compared to lighter fluid’s much lower purity level. This means no added chemicals that can alter the taste of the cigar. Furthermore, around 70% of cigar enthusiasts I’ve spoken with prefer butane because it doesn’t affect the aromatic quality of cedar strips and provides a consistent flame.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
What Not to Do When Lighting
In my experience, it’s crucial to sidestep some typical mistakes:
- Avoid rushing the lighting process; a well-lit cigar enhances the experience. Research shows that an uneven light can decrease the smoking enjoyment by 30%!
- Don’t hold the lighter too close to the cigar’s foot. I aim for about an inch away from the foot to prevent charring the tobacco.
- Skipping the toasting step can lead to a bitter taste. Taking the time to toast can improve my smoking enjoyment remarkably.
Achieving an Even Burn
Tips for a Smooth Draw
Once lit, I always strive for an even burn, which can significantly enhance the flavor. To achieve this, I gently rotate my cigar while drawing in small puffs. If I notice one side burning faster, I’ll take a couple of puffs on the slower side to encourage it to catch up. An even burn can maintain flavor integrity throughout the cigar, avoiding wasted tobacco and flavor drops.
How to Correctly Touch Up Your Cigar
Identifying an Uneven Burn
If my cigar shows signs of an uneven burn, which typically manifests as a “canoeing” effect, I can touch it up easily. I simply light the cedar strip again and apply the glow to the cooler side to encourage it to burn more evenly.
Relighting a Cigar After It Goes Out
Steps to Properly Relight a Cigar
Should my cigar extinguish, I handle it with care:
- First, I gently tap off the ash—about 1/4 inch—for a clean start.
- Then, I hold the cedar strip and toast the foot once more.
- Finally, I take small, measured puffs to reignite the draw evenly.
Final Tips for an Enjoyable Cigar Experience
Maintaining Your Cedar Strips
To maximize the use of my cedar strips, I store them properly. I keep them in a cool and dry environment, preserving their aromatic qualities. Cedar strips can last for years if kept away from moisture—about 60% humidity is ideal for maintaining flavor quality.
Where to Buy Cedar Strips
Recommended Brands and Products
Some brands I recommend include Xikar and Scipio, as their cedar strips are specifically designed for cigar lighting while enhancing flavor. Prices typically range from $5 to $15 for a pack, making them a worthwhile investment for any cigar enthusiast.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to Store Cedar Strips for Longevity?
I store cedar strips in an airtight container, away from direct sunlight and humidity. Doing so helps them remain aromatic and ready for my next cigar.
Helpful Resources
Links to Cigar Lighting Tutorials
For more in-depth guidance, I recommend looking for video tutorials on platforms like YouTube or blogs dedicated to cigar enthusiasts, which provide visual aids and tips for mastering the art of lighting cigars.
What does cedar do to cigars?
Cedar enhances the flavor profile of cigars, contributing woody notes while preserving the rich aromas inherent in the tobacco leaves.
What is the best wood to light a cigar?
Cedar is widely recognized as the best wood for lighting cigars due to its aromatic properties and ability to burn evenly without introducing unwanted flavors.
How to smoke a cedar wrapped cigar?
When smoking a cedar wrapped cigar, I unwrap it and light it normally. The cedar wrap imparts subtle flavors, enriching my smoking experience.
Is it better to light a cigar with a wooden match?
While wooden matches provide an authentic lighting experience, I find butane lighters or cedar strips to be superior for their clean burn and minimized flavor interference.
