How To Smoke A Cigar: A Complete Beginner’s Guide
Smoking a cigar is more than just lighting up; it’s an art, a ritual, and a symbol of relaxation and sophistication. Whether you’re celebrating a milestone or simply enjoying a quiet evening, learning how to smoke a cigar properly enhances the experience and helps you appreciate its rich flavor and aroma.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know from choosing your cigar to lighting, puffing, and savoring it like a pro.
1. Select the Proper Cigar
You must first choose the appropriate cigar. There are many different sizes, shapes, and strengths of cigars.
Mild cigars with delicate aromas are the best choice for beginners.
Romeo y Julieta, Montecristo White, and Macanudo Café are well-liked choices for novices.
Examine the color of the wrapper; lighter wrappers tend to have a milder flavor, while darker ones tend to have a stronger one.
Enjoy the cigar’s scent and texture. When gently squeezed, a well-made cigar should feel firm but slightly bouncy.
2. Properly cut the cigar
A smooth draw requires a clean cut. Remove the cap (the closed end) with a cigar punch or a sharp guillotine cutter.
Slice off approximately 1/8 of an inch from the cigar’s head.
Don’t cut too deeply — this can unravel the wrapper.
A proper cut allows smoke to flow evenly and keeps the cigar’s structure intact.
3. Toast the Foot (Don’t Burn It)
Before puffing, toast the foot of your cigar. This step preheats the tobacco for an even burn.
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Hold the cigar at a 45-degree angle above the flame.
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Rotate it slowly until the edges begin to glow.
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Avoid sticking it directly into the flame — you’re toasting, not burning.
4. Light Your Cigar Properly
Once toasted, bring the cigar to your lips and light it with a butane lighter or cedar match (avoid regular lighters as they can alter the flavor).
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Puff gently as you rotate the cigar to create an even burn.
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Check the foot — it should glow red and evenly lit.
5. Inhale only when puffing.
Cigar smoke is not inhaled, in contrast to cigarettes. Rather, pull the smoke into your mouth, hold it there for a moment, and then gently release it.
This makes it possible to taste the nuanced flavors without being unpleasant. Dizziness and pain might result from inhaling cigar smoke.
To maintain the cigar burning evenly without getting too hot, take a puff every 30 to 60 seconds.
6. Savor the Taste
The purpose of cigars is to be enjoyed. Notice how the flavors evolve as you smoke from earthy and woody to sweet or spicy undertones. Pair your cigar with a good whiskey, rum, or coffee to enhance the experience.
7. Let It Go Out Naturally
If you’re done or the cigar goes out, don’t stub it like a cigarette. Simply let it rest in the ashtray — it will go out gracefully on its own.
You can relight it later, but for the best flavor, avoid waiting more than an hour.
Bonus Tips for Beginners
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Store cigars in a humidor to maintain freshness.
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Remove the band after a few minutes of smoking to prevent it from tearing the wrapper.
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Always ash gently — let about an inch build before tapping it off.