Cigar smoking is a time-honored tradition that has been enjoyed by people around the world for centuries. If you’ve ever wondered how to smoke a cigar but were intimidated by the process, or you’re a cigar aficionado looking for some tips, this guide is for you. We will cover the basics of cigar smoking and provide some helpful tips for getting the most out of your cigar smoking experience. So grab your stogie, light up, and let’s get started!
What You Need to Know Before Smoking a Cigar
Before getting started, it’s important to understand the basics of cigar smoking. Cigars come in a variety of sizes, shapes, and strengths. The size and shape of a cigar is generally referred to as its vitola, and the strength of the cigar is determined by the blend of tobacco used to make it. The most common categories of cigars are mild, medium, and full-bodied. It’s important to know your preference and the strength of the cigar you are smoking to ensure you get the most out of your experience.
It’s also important to note that cigars are meant to be smoked slowly. The goal is not to inhale the smoke, but rather to savor it. You should puff on the cigar every few minutes, as opposed to taking a long, deep drag. This will ensure that the cigar smokes evenly and you get the full flavor of the tobacco.
How to Choose a Cigar
The first step to smoking a cigar is choosing the right one. Start by considering the occasion. If you’re looking for a special occasion cigar, it’s best to stick with a more premium cigar. These cigars will have a higher quality blend of tobacco, and they will generally be more expensive. For everyday smoking, you can go with a more affordable cigar.
When you’re ready to choose a cigar, it’s important to look at the wrapper. The wrapper is the outermost layer of the cigar, and it will have a big impact on the flavor and aroma of the cigar. Generally speaking, a darker wrapper will indicate a fuller flavor, while a lighter wrapper will be milder. It’s also important to look for a wrapper that has an even color and no visible blemishes.
How to Cut a Cigar
Once you’ve chosen the right cigar, it’s time to cut it. The best way to cut a cigar is to use a guillotine cutter, which is a tool designed specifically for this purpose. To use the guillotine cutter, position the cigar so that the cut is made above the shoulder of the cigar. This will ensure that the cut is made cleanly and the wrapper doesn’t unravel. Once the cut is made, the cigar is ready to be lit.
How to Light a Cigar
When it comes to lighting a cigar, there are a few different options. The most popular method is to use a butane lighter. This type of lighter is designed specifically for lighting cigars and will provide a clean, even flame. It’s important to remember to light the cigar slowly and evenly so that the wrapper doesn’t burn too quickly.
Another popular option is to use a cedar spill, which is a long piece of cedar wood that has been soaked in lighter fluid. To use a cedar spill, simply ignite the end of the spill and hold it to the foot of the cigar until it lights. This method provides a slower, more controlled flame than a butane lighter and will ensure an even burn.
Smoking a Cigar
Once the cigar is lit, it’s time to start smoking. The goal is to smoke the cigar slowly and evenly, so take your time. Puff on the cigar every few minutes, and rotate the cigar as it burns to ensure an even burn. You should also avoid inhaling the smoke, as this can be harsh on your throat and lungs. Instead, simply savor the flavor of the tobacco.
Storing and Aging Cigars
When you’re done smoking, you may want to save the cigar for later. If so, it’s important to store it properly. The best way to store a cigar is in a humidor, which is a specially designed box that maintains the optimal humidity level for cigars. This will ensure that the cigars stay fresh and the flavors remain intact.
Conclusion
For those looking to age their cigars, it’s best to store them in a cedar-lined humidor. The cedar will help to add flavor and complexity to the cigars as they age. It’s important to keep in mind that aging cigars can take years, so patience is key. The longer the cigars are aged, the more complex and flavorful they will become.
