In a world where new trends and smoking alternatives continuously emerge, the classic cigar endures as a beloved choice for connoisseurs.
While vape pens and CBG joints may have their moment, there’s an enduring charm to mastering the art of cigar smoking.
A well-smoked cigar exudes an air of sophistication and savoir-faire. In this article, we’ll guide you through the time-honored ritual of enjoying a cigar, ensuring you do it with skill and style.
Table of contents
How to Choose a Cigar
Cigars are a popular way to relax and enjoy a good smoke, but with so many different types of cigars available, it can be tough to know where to start.
In choosing a Cigar, you have to consider your experience level. If you’re new to cigars, start with a mild or medium-bodied cigar. Full-bodied cigars can be too strong for beginners.
Next, you need to think about how much time you have to smoke. Larger cigars take longer to smoke, while smaller cigars can be smoked in under an hour.
Finally, pay attention to the cigar’s flavor profile. Cigars can have a variety of flavors, including earthy, nutty, spicy, and sweet. Choose a cigar with a flavor profile that you enjoy.
Types of Cigars
Here are the main types of Cigars.
Robusto: This is a popular cigar size that is good for both beginners and experienced smokers. It is typically between 4 and 5 inches long and has a ring gauge of 50-54.
Corona: This is a smaller cigar size that is good for quick smokes. It is typically between 5 and 6 inches long and has a ring gauge of 42-46.
Churchill: This is a larger cigar size that is good for long, relaxing smokes. It is typically between 7 and 8 inches long and has a ring gauge of 47-50.
Belicoso: This Cigar is typically medium-sized, measuring around 5 to 5.5 inches in length and 50 to 52 in ring gauge. However, some mini-bellicose are smaller in size, and some larger bellicose that are up to 6 inches long and 54 in ring gauge.
Lonsdale: Lonsdale cigars are typically considered medium to large cigars. They typically measure around 6 to 7 inches in length and 42 to 44 in ring gauge. However, some mini-Lonsdales are smaller in size, and some larger Lonsdales are up to 7.5 inches long and 46 in ring gauge.
How to Cut a Cigar
Cutting a cigar is a vital part of the cigar-smoking experience. A good cut will ensure a good draw and a smooth burn. Generally, there are two main types of cigar cutters which are the guillotine cutters and punch cutters.
Guillotine cutters are the most common type of cigar cutter. They are easy to use and provide a clean cut. To use a guillotine cutter, simply place the cigar in the cutter and line up the blade with the shoulder of the cigar. Then, press down on the lever to cut.
Punch cutters are more precise than guillotine cutters, and you can use them to cut cigars with a variety of wrappers. To use a punch cutter, insert the punch into the center of the cap and twist it to make a hole.
Before you cut, take a close look at the cigar. If the cap is cracked or damaged, you will need to trim it before you cut it.
To do this, use a cigar cutter to remove a small amount of the cap, just enough to expose the fresh tobacco underneath.
How to Light a Cigar
To light a cigar, you will need a good quality lighter. A butane lighter is the best type of lighter to use, as it produces a clean flame that will not affect the cigar’s taste.
- First, hold the cigar in your dominant hand with the foot facing up.
- Next, toast the foot of the cigar by holding it over the lighter and rotating it slowly until the entire foot is evenly lit
- Once the foot is lit, take a few slow, gentle puffs to draw the flame into the cigar
- Continue to puff on the cigar until it is lit all the way around.
How to Smoke a Cigar
First and foremost, do not inhale cigar smoke. Your lungs and overall body will not appreciate it.
Cut the cigar: Use a cigar cutter to make a clean cut just below the shoulder of the cigar. Be careful not to cut too much off, as this will ruin the cigar.
Light the cigar: Hold the cigar in your dominant hand with the foot facing up. Toast the foot of the cigar by holding it over a lighter and rotating it slowly until the entire foot is evenly lit. Once the foot is lit, take a few slow, gentle puffs to draw the flame into the cigar. Continue to puff on the cigar until it is lit all the way around.
Smoke the cigar: Take slow, even puffs on the cigar. Don’t inhale the smoke. Savor the flavor of the cigar on your palate.
Ashtray the cigar: As you smoke, the cigar will produce ash. Tap the cigar on the ashtray to remove the ash. Don’t over-ash the cigar, as this can disrupt the burn.
Relight the cigar: If the cigar goes out, simply relight it.
Finish the cigar: Once you are done smoking the cigar, simply put it out in the ashtray.
FAQs- How to Smoke a Cigar
Steps to Lighting
Cut your cigar with a cutter. Slice 1/8th of an inch of the cap.
Tilt your cigar and toast the foot by letting your tobacco heat up before lighting.
Spark your lighter
Keep your lighter on hand
Smoke without inhaling
Tap gently on your ashtray
Puff gently and draw the smoke into your mouth, letting the flavor spread. Whether you were previously a cigarette smoker or a non-smoker, it is vital to remember to never inhale the smoke from your cigar. Unlike cigarettes, cigars are meant to be slowly enjoyed for their full-bodied taste and scent.
Avoid biting down on your cigar. The wrapper will crack and its construction will be compromised leading to an uneven or nonexistent draw. If you leave your cigar in your mouth without the aid of your hand for short spurts, don’t clamp down on it too hard.
Conclusion- How to Smoke a Cigar
Smoking a cigar is a relaxing and enjoyable experience, but it is important to do it correctly. By following the tips in this article, you cut, light, and smoke a cigar like a pro. Finally, smoking a Cigar goes with Whiskey and is a key part of poker night.
Reference- How to Smoke a Cigar
Recommendation- How to Smoke a Cigar
