Cigar smoking may seem intimidating and complicated, but the truth is that it’s a very enjoyable experience – and one that can bring pleasure to both first-time smokers and practiced aficionados alike. Whether you’re looking to take a deep dive into the craft of cigar smoking or just want to know enough to enjoy your next social gathering, here are the basics for getting started!
1. Cigar Cutters
The first step to cigar smoking is having the right kind of equipment. Cigar cutters are designed specifically to provide a smooth, clean cut of the cigar’s end so that it can be inhaled with ease. You’ll want to invest in a good-quality cutter, preferably one with a double-blade design for added precision. For example, a V-Cutter will leave a “V” shaped cut at the end of your cigar, whereas a punch cutter will create a small hole.
It’s up to you to determine which kind of cut works best for your smoking experience. While some aficionados may prefer one kind of cut over another, all that really matters is that the cigar has been properly cut to allow for easy draw.
2. Choosing a Cigar
Now that you have the basics of cigar smoking, it’s time to pick the perfect cigar for you. There are a few things to consider when choosing your first cigar: size, shape, and type of tobacco used. Size is measured by length and ring gauge (diameter). The longer cigars tend to be milder in flavor while shorter ones tend to be stronger.
Cigar shapes also vary greatly; they can be cylindrical or tapered at one end—this is referred to as a “figured” shape. Generally speaking, figura dos tend to offer more complexity in flavor than a regular-shaped cigar. It’s important to note that the type of tobacco used in a cigar will have a significant impact on its flavor. Wrappers—the outermost layer of the cigar—can be either natural (grown in the sun) or Maduro (sun-grown and then dried further).
3. Lighting the Cigar
Once you’ve chosen your cigar, it’s time to light up. A butane lighter or wooden match is preferred when lighting a cigar since they don’t produce any impurities that may disrupt the taste of your smoke. To ignite the end of your cigar, hold the flame slightly away from the tip and rotate it slowly until it ignites evenly all around. Once lit, take a few puffs without inhaling to ensure an even burn. Don’t be afraid if some sparks fly! It just means you are doing something right. If you notice an uneven burn with one side burning faster than another, use your lighter to touch up the slow-burning side in short bursts until it catches up with the rest of the cigar. Enjoy!
4. Smoking The Cigar
Now that you’re ready to light up, there are a few steps to follow while smoking your cigar. First, hold the cigar in one hand away from your face and use an even flame—like a lighter or match—to slowly toast the foot of the cigar until it’s evenly lit all around. Avoid holding the flame too close as this can cause an uneven burn and lead to an unpleasant taste.
Once you’ve achieved an even light, draw on the cigar gently but firmly to ensure good circulation of smoke within the filler tobacco inside. This will help with the uniform burning of the wrapper leaf and create better combustion for producing aroma and flavor. It’s also important to occasionally draw on the cigar every few minutes throughout your smoke.
5. Enjoy!
Once you’ve followed the above steps and your cigar is lit, it’s time to sit back, relax and enjoy! Cigar smoking is about savoring an experience that can be enhanced by lingering over a favorite beverage. It may take some practice to get used to the feel of drawing in smoke from a cigar, but once you do it should come naturally. As you draw in smoke from your cigar, try to focus on its flavor as well as its aroma.
Take note of how these flavors change throughout the length of the cigar. And when it’s done, don’t forget to properly extinguish the end of your cigar in an ashtray before disposing of it.
Smoking a cigar can be an enjoyable and relaxing experience. With the basics of cigar smoking under your belt, you’re ready to light up! Choose a cigar that speaks to you, take your time to enjoy it, and savor each puff. Before you know it, you’ll have mastered the art of cigar smoking.
