Cigars 101

The cigar you select, how you cut it, ignite it, puff it and the flavors you appreciate remain entirely up to you. Nevertheless, be conscious of the following.

Selecting

The color and sheen on the leaf ought to be even. Upon gently pressing the cigar between your fingers, it had better feel springy yet firm. Savor the aromas escaping the box to gain an idea of the flavor.

Cutting

Cut your cigar right above where the cap meets the leaf wrapper to form an opening large enough for an unhindered draw. Cutting here leaves just enough cap to prevent any unraveling of the wrapper.

Ignition

Use an odorless flame, such as a butane gas lighter, wooden match or spill. Holding the cigar at 90 degrees to a flame, char the foot evenly by rotating it. Then hold the cigar a half-inch from the flame, puff on it, drawing the flame to the foot, and keep rotating it. To ensure the cigar burns evenly, lightly blow on it.

Smoking

Smoking a cigar too quickly results in overheating that compromises the flavor. Allow the smoke to dance across your palate; however, you mustn’t inhale. Cigars smoke well for at least three-fourths. How far you go is up to you. Enjoy the flavors and the ash will fall from the cigar by itself. A cigar may be saved and relit later.

Saying Goodbye

After it’s all said and done, don’t squish your cigar into the ashtray. The flame will extinguish on its own. Lay the cigar down and let it rest in peace.