Lighting the cigar
Lighting the cigar involves two basic choices: the match
or the lighter. The thin cedar wooden match is preferred
over the paper match. In either case, let the match burn
briefly after striking to allow the phosphorous to burn
away. Butane lighter is preferred to the fluid-filled
lighter, which can emit chemicals and smells that ruin
the aroma or taste of the cigar.
Rather than placing the lighter or match beneath the cigar, place it in front of the foot and let the flame come to the cigar. This helps create an even burn. Some smokers prefer to hold the cigar in their hands and rotate it next to flame until embers appear.
Holding the cigar
Not a cigarette to be pinched, the cigar requires a firmer
grip. Simply grasp the cigar at the base of the thumb,
wrapping the forefinger over the top and the index finger
beneath. If you get lost, take a look at a picture of
Winston Churchill.
Removing the band
Traditionally, cigar smokers remove the band. Sometimes
the smoker will leave the band on for a short while to
help dissolve any glue that might cause it to stick and
damage the wrapper. However, there is a healthy contingent
of dissenters out there who prefer leaving the band on.
If you’re unsure, observe what others are doing.
Flicking the ash
A long ash is considered better for the smoke because
it helps to reduce the temperature of the burning tobacco,
thereby creating a cooler smoke. Allow the ash to drop
off naturally. The ash can often grow to three-quarters
of an inch to an inch before falling off. Most often the
ash will drop off when you rest it on the ashtray. Unlike
cigarettes, it is better to let the cigar go out on its
own rather than snuffing it out.
To inhale or not
Taking the smoke into the mouth from the cigar is called
the draw and is one of the most important aspects of cigar
enjoyment. Draw the smoke into the mouth, letting it circulate,
then release it. Cigar smoke is not inhaled like that
of a cigarette.
