For centuries, the cigar has been more than just a roll of tobacco; it’s a symbol of celebration, a moment of quiet contemplation, and a shared ritual among friends. However, for those new to the world of cigars, the process can seem daunting. How do you choose the right one? What’s the proper way to cut and light it? And how do you smoke it without getting dizzy or feeling overwhelmed?
This comprehensive guide will demystify the art of smoking a cigar, taking you from novice to connoisseur. We’ll cover everything from selection and preparation to the final puff, ensuring your first cigar experience is not just good, but truly memorable.
The Foundation – Choosing Your First Cigar
The journey begins long before you light up. Stepping into a humidor can be overwhelming, with rows upon rows of cigars of different sizes, shapes, and colors. Here’s what you need to know:
- Wrapper Color: This is your first clue to the cigar’s flavor profile.
- Connecticut (Light Brown/Tan): Mild and creamy, often with notes of cedar and nuts. An excellent starting point for beginners.
- Corojo (Reddish-Brown): Medium-bodied with a spicier, more robust flavor.
- Maduro (Dark Brown/Black): Rich and sweet, often with flavors of chocolate, coffee, and molasses. These are generally full-bodied and best for a more experienced palate.
- Size and Shape: The size of the cigar affects its smoking time and flavor intensity.
- Corona: A classic, smaller size perfect for a 30–45-minute smoke.
- Robusto: The most popular size, offering a hearty smoke for 45-60 minutes.
- Churchill: A long, large cigar for a longer, more leisurely session.
For your first time, a Robusto or a Corona with a Connecticut wrapper is an ideal choice. It provides a balanced experience without being too overwhelming.
The Ritual of Preparation – Cutting and Lighting
This is where the magic truly begins. A proper cut and light are crucial for an even burn and a smooth draw.
The Cut: The goal is to create an opening that allows for a steady flow of air without unraveling the cigar.
- Types of Cutters:
- Guillotine/Straight Cutter: The most common and effective. Place the cigar’s cap (the rounded end) in the cutter and snip it just above the shoulder, where the cap begins to round.
- V-Cutter: Creates a wedge-shaped cut, offering a more concentrated draw.
- Punch Cutter: Makes a small, circular hole. Great for beginners as it’s less likely to ruin the cigar.
The Light: Avoid using a Zippo lighter or matches that contain sulfur. These can impart unwanted chemical flavors.
- Ideal Lighting Tools:
- Butane Torch Lighter: Provides a clean, hot flame that’s perfect for toasting the cigar’s foot (the end you light).
- Long Wooden Matches: A traditional and aromatic option. Let the sulfur tip burn off completely before lighting.
- The Technique:
- Toast the Foot: Hold the cigar just above the flame, rotating it slowly until the entire foot is evenly charred. This prevents charring the wrapper.
- Light and Puff: Put the cigar in your mouth and, with the flame a few inches away, gently puff while rotating the cigar. This draws the flame inward, creating a glowing ember.
- Check for Evenness: Blow gently on the lit end. The ember should glow evenly across the entire surface. If not, touch up any dark spots with the flame.
The Act of Smoking – The Right Way to Enjoy
The biggest mistake beginners make is inhaling. Unlike a cigarette, a cigar is meant to be savored, not inhaled.
- The Puff: Take a gentle puff every 30 to 60 seconds. This keeps the cigar lit and cool. A quick, hard puff will cause the cigar to burn hot, leading to a bitter, harsh taste.
- The Draw: After each puff, hold the smoke in your mouth for a moment. This allows the flavors to coat your palate. You’ll taste notes of earth, spices, sweetness, and more.
- The Release: Slowly and gracefully release the smoke. Please don’t blow it out aggressively. The act is meant to be leisurely.
- The Ash: The ash is a sign of a well-made cigar. Let it grow to about an inch or two before gently tapping it off. Don’t flick it like a cigarette. A firm, grey-white ash indicates a good cigar.
The Pairing – Enhancing Your Experience
A great cigar can be made even better with the right beverage pairing.
- For Mild Cigars: Try a light whiskey, a craft beer, or a cup of coffee.
- For Medium-Bodied Cigars: A smooth bourbon, a single malt Scotch, or a robust porter pair well.
- For Full-Bodied Cigars: Consider a full-bodied spirit like a rich rum, a peaty Scotch, or a decadent dark stout.
The Conclusion:
As you near the end, the cigar’s flavor profile will change. The last third, often called the “nub,” can become more intense. Knowing when to stop is part of the art. When the flavor turns bitter or the cigar becomes uncomfortably hot, it’s time to put it down.
- How to Extinguish: Do not crush or mash the cigar in an ashtray. Simply place it down and let it go out on its own. It will extinguish itself within a few minutes, releasing a final whisper of aroma.
Smoking a cigar is a journey of discovery. Each cigar offers a unique story, told through its aroma, flavor, and the moment it creates. By following these steps, you’re not just lighting a cigar; you’re participating in a timeless ritual, a moment of peace and pleasure in a fast-paced world. So, choose your cigar, prepare it with care, and savor every puff. Welcome to the world of cigar enthusiasts.
