A Gentleman's Guide to Enjoying Cigars: The Art of Lighting a Cigar
I probably savor the ritual of lighting a fine cigar a little too much, but it's very enjoyable knowing how to do it properly. I've written this brief article to try and help guide newcomers to cigar smoking. Remember, the journey is just as important as the destination. Happy smoking, and welcome to the brotherhood of the leaf!
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Choose Your Light Source
First things first - put away that Zippo or scented candle! You want a flame that won't impart any additional flavors to your cigar. Your best bets are:
- Wooden matches (let the sulfur burn off first)
- Butane/Torch lighters. I love this torch from Amazon which can also be used for Creme brulee!
- Cedar spills (for the true aficionado)
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Prepare Your Cigar
Before lighting, you need to cut your cigar. Aim to remove about 1/16 to 1/8 inch from the head (the end you'll draw from). A clean, straight cut with a sharp cutter is ideal. I love the V-Cut, which gives you a steady, but smooth draw. This V-Cutter from Colibri is very durable.
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Toast the Foot
Now, here's where the magic begins. Hold your cigar at a 45-degree angle above the flame, but don't let them touch. Slowly rotate the cigar, allowing the heat to gently toast the foot (the end you light). You're aiming to warm up the tobacco, not scorch it.
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Light It Up
Once the foot is evenly toasted, it's time to light. Still holding the cigar at an angle, place it in your mouth and draw gently while rotating the cigar over the flame. The goal is to create an even burn around the entire circumference of the foot.
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The first Puff.
Clear the cigar of ammonia (which naturally occurs after you light). After lighting, take your first puff but don't inhale. Next, gently blow out through the cigar. This helps to expel any initial harshness or ammonia that may have built up in the foot during lighting. This step ensures your first proper draw will be clean and flavorful.
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Check Your Work
Take a look at the foot of your cigar. Is it evenly lit? If not, touch up any unlit spots with your flame. A well-lit cigar will have a nice, even red glow when you draw on it.
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Enjoy!
Once your cigar is evenly lit, take a moment to appreciate your handiwork. Draw slowly and savor the flavors. Remember, cigars are meant to be enjoyed leisurely - there's no rush!
Pro Tips
- Make sure to keep your distance when using a torch lighter. Avoid directly blazing the tobacco - it can be too hot and can scorch your cigar up close.
- Avoid inhaling while lighting (or smoking, for that matter). Cigars are meant to be enjoyed for their flavor, not inhaled like cigarettes.
- If your cigar goes out, gently knock off the ash and repeat the lighting process. It happens to the best of us!
Happy smoking, and welcome to the brotherhood of the leaf!