4 Steps to Smoking a Cigar
Smoking a cigar is a simple and enjoyable activity, but there is a process to it. By following the right steps, you can smoke your first cigar and get the maximum possible enjoyment out of it. Here are the four simple steps to smoking your cigar.
Cut the Cigar
The first step to smoking a cigar is to cut it. Buy a cigar cutter from either a local tobacco retailer or an online cigar shop. Hold the cigar firmly and find the cap line. Cut just above the cap line to ensure that the cigar doesn’t begin to unravel. Also be sure to make a single, quick cut. If you hesitate or don’t apply enough pressure, you could get an uneven cut with bits of torn tobacco leaf around the edge.
Light it Correctly
To get the best flavor out of your cigar, you need to light it properly. Using either a wooden match or a butane torch, lightly toast the wrapper at the foot of the cigar. Rotate the cigar to get an even burn. Then, apply the flame to the inner tobaccos and begin drawing air through the cigar. Toasting the wrapper before you fully light the cigar will help you get an even wrapper burn and better flavor.
Smoke it Slowly
One of the biggest mistakes you can make when smoking a cigar is to smoke it too quickly. For the best results, you need to take a puff frequently enough to keep it lit. Taking large draws in quick succession, though, will cause the cigar to burn hotter and taste worse. The cooler you can keep the cigar without allowing it to go out, the better the tobacco will taste.
Know When to Finish
Contrary to popular belief, you don’t have to stop smoking your cigar when you reach the band. The right time to stop is when you feel that you’ve gotten all you can out of the cigar. In some cases, this may mean that you stop shortly after the halfway mark. In others, you could find yourself almost singeing your fingers by smoking on a cigar nub that’s still delivering excellent flavor. When you decide you’re done, allow the cigar to go out in your ashtray.
If you follow these simple steps, you’ll have an easy and enjoyable experience with your first cigar. Also be sure to get some advice in picking out your first cigar from someone who is familiar with different blends.