A cigar isn’t just a smoke, it’s an experience. Whether you’re a seasoned aficionado or just getting started, knowing how to properly cut, light, and enjoy a cigar is key to getting the most out of it. Here’s how to do it right.
Step 1: Cutting Your Cigar, Precision Matters
A clean cut ensures a smooth draw. Follow these steps to avoid butchering your cigar.
Choose the Right Cutter A sharp guillotine cutter, like the Baloon Straight Cutter. A straight cut is the best choice for most cigars because it provides a wide, even draw, allowing you to fully experience the cigar’s flavours.
Find the Cap That rounded end? That’s your target. Cut too much and the cigar unravels, too little and the draw suffers.
Make the Cut Quick, clean, and confident. Place the cutter just above the cap and slice in one swift motion, no hesitation, no frayed edges.
Step 2: Lighting Your Cigar, The Right Flame for the Job
The way you light a cigar sets the stage for the entire smoke. Here’s how to do it right.
Use a Butane Lighter A proper torch, like the Adorini Jet Lighter, gives you an even, flavour-preserving burn. Leave the gas station lighters behind.
Toast the Foot Hold the cigar just above the flame, letting the heat do the work without the flame ever touching the tobacco. Slowly rotate the cigar, allowing the foot to warm up and the edges to glow evenly. This gentle toasting preps the cigar for a smooth, even burn when you take your first draw.
Light with a Slow Draw Bring the cigar to your lips, take slow, steady puffs while rotating, and watch the ember take shape. No need to rush, good things take time.
Step 3: Smoking and Savouring, Take It Slow
A cigar isn’t meant to be rushed. It’s about the experience, the flavours, and the moment. Each draw should be slow and deliberate, allowing the smoke to coat your palate and develop its full complexity.
- Pace Yourself One puff every 30 to 60 seconds keeps the cigar burning evenly without overheating.
2. Appreciate the Flavours From the creamy, velvety notes of an Escobar Ecuadorian Connecticut to the bold spice and leather of a full-bodied cigar, every draw tells a story. Savour the experience.
3. Ash Like a Pro Let the ash build up a bit before gently tapping it off. A long ash helps with an even burn.
4. Respect the Finish When the cigar gets too short or the flavour turns bitter, set it down and let it rest. DO NOT crush it like a cigarette!
