Introduction
Cigar smoking is an age-old tradition that has been around for centuries, cherished for its rich flavors and aromas. It’s a pastime enjoyed by many and, when done properly, can be a relaxing and enjoyable experience. However, for beginners, the world of cigar smoking can be intimidating, with many rules and techniques to learn. In this article, we’ll guide you through everything you need to know to smoke cigars like a pro.
A Step-by-Step Beginner’s Guide to Smoking Cigars
Selecting the Right Cigar
The first step to enjoying a cigar is choosing the right one. There are countless cigar varieties available, and it can be challenging to know where to start. Two of the most important factors to consider when selecting a cigar are flavor and shape.
Flavors
Cigar flavors range from mild to strong. The flavor of a cigar is determined by its tobacco blend, with stronger tobaccos producing more intense flavors. If it is your first time, it is recommended to go for mild or medium cigars. Cigars can also have additional flavorings that vary from vanilla, honey, to cherry.
Shapes
Cigars come in a wide variety of shapes, which can affect your smoking experience. The three main cigar shapes are:
- Robusto: relatively short and thick
- Toro: similar to Robusto, but slightly longer and thicker
- Churchill: a long, thin cigar
Cutting the Cigar
Once you have your cigar, you’ll need to cut it. Cutting the cigar gives you access to the tobacco inside and allows for a smooth draw. Cigars can be cut in various ways, but the two most popular cut types are:
Types of Cuts
- Straight Cut: A straight cut to the cap of the cigar allows for a large surface area and more smoke.
- V-Cut: The V-cut creates a notch in the cap and a ‘v’ shape on the end of the cigar, allowing for the fairly easy and consistent draw. It’s preferred for medium-sized cigars
How to Cut
To cut your cigar, start by placing the cigar cutter around the cap of the cigar, near the end. Next, make a quick and straight cut to remove the cap. You should be left with an opening that is about the diameter of a pencil, which will be needed for the next step.
Lighting the Cigar
Now that your cigar is cut, it’s time to light it. It’s an essential step, and if done incorrectly, it could result in a cigar that tastes bad and burns unevenly.
Types of Lighters
- Butane Lighters: recommended to use because it’s odorless and produces little smoke. butane is also better for lighting since it does not alter the taste of the cigar
- Matches: Never use a regular match, always go for wooden matches. Cardboard matches should be avoided at all costs as they may alter the flavor of the cigar.
- Cedar Spills: Recommended for lighting expensive cigars for maximum flavor and aroma.
How to Light
Start by holding the cigar at a 45-degree angle, near the end you cut. Toast the foot of the cigar by lighting it with a lighter, keeping it just above the flame to avoid scorching it. Rotate the cigar slowly so that the foot is evenly toasted. Once the cigar has been toasted, place the front of the cigar into your mouth and puff, while you put the fire to the cig. Repeat the process until the cigar is lit. Make sure the cigar is evenly lit and burning.
Smoking Techniques
Cigar smoking is a slow and steady process that should be enjoyed. Puffing and ashing are two techniques that should be considered.
Puffing
When smoking a cigar, it is essential to puff, not to inhale. Inhaling cigar smoke can be tough on the lungs for individuals not used to smoking, unlike cigarettes. Instead, draw in a small amount of smoke into your mouth, savor the flavor for a few seconds, and exhale slowly.
Ashing
It is essential to manually remove the ash from the cigar tip once it reaches a suitable length. Press the tip of the cigar softly on an ashtray’s ash surface to let the ash go off. Leaving for too long builds up enough char which can be unpleasant.
The Benefits and Risks of Cigar Smoking
Health Risks
Cigar smoking comes with a host of health risks that should not be ignored. It contains harmful chemicals that are harmful to the smoker and those around them.
Cancer
Cigar smokers are at an increased risk of developing various types of cancer, including oral cancer and lung cancer.
Other Health Issues
Other health risks of cigar smoking include heart disease, gum disease, and respiratory problems, to name a few. Cigar smoking is not recommended for those with existing health conditions, and it should be avoided altogether by pregnant women.
Potential Benefits
Despite the health risks, cigar smoking has some potential benefits. It can be a stress-relieving and relaxing experience, allowing smokers to unwind after a long day.
Stress Relief
Smoking a cigar can be a great way to relieve stress and anxiety. Many cigar smokers enjoy smoking a cigar at the end of a long day to help them relax and unwind.
Relaxation
Cigar smoking can also be a social event, providing smokers with an opportunity to connect with others and socialize.
Tips for Smoking in Moderation
For those who choose to smoke cigars, moderation is key. It’s important to limit your cigar smoking and not make it a habit. Smoking a cigar too frequently can increase the health risks associated with it.
Cigar Smoking Etiquette
Smoking cigars comes with its own set of rules and etiquette, and it is important to familiarize yourself with them to avoid offending others.
Proper Cutting
When cutting a cigar, it is important to take care not to cut too much. Over-cutting can result in a cigar that burns too quickly and unevenly.
Lighting Etiquette
When lighting a cigar, it is important to avoid using a lighter that produces strong odors that may alter the cigar’s taste. It is considered polite to use your own lighter rather than asking to borrow someone else’s.
How to Smoke Without Offending Others
Smoking cigars can be a pleasant experience for some while unbearable for others. It’s important to be mindful of those around you and considerate of their preferences. Avoid smoking cigars around children and others who may be sensitive to smoke.
Pairing Cigars with Drinks and Food
Pairing cigars with drinks and food can enhance the smoking experience, and there are several types of drinks and food that pair exceptionally well with cigars.
Types of Drinks That Pair Well
Whiskey
Whiskey is one of the most popular drinks to pair with cigars, and for a good reason. The smoky, oaky flavors of whiskey complement the richness of cigars, enhancing the flavors and aromas of both.
Beer
Beer can also be a great drink to pair with cigars, with some beer styles pairing better than others. Dark beers, such as stouts, pair well with cigars due to their roasted flavors, which complement the sweetness of cigars.
Coffee
Coffee is another popular drink to pair with cigars, with the earthy, nutty flavors of coffee complementing the flavors of cigars.
Types of Food That Pair Well
Chocolate
Chocolate is an excellent food to pair with cigars, with the sweet flavors of chocolate complementing the rich, smoky flavors of cigars.
Cheese
Cheese and cigars are a match made in heaven, with the creamy, rich flavors of cheese complementing the aromas of cigars. Pairing a cigar with a fine cheese board can enhance the smoking experience.
How Flavors Interact
The key to pairing cigars with drinks and food is to balance flavor profiles. It’s essential to pair a cigar with drinks and food that have complementary flavors. Pairing flavors that clash with each other may result in an unpleasant experience.
The Art of Cigar Collecting
How to Store and Maintain Cigars
Cigars are a delicate product, and proper storage is essential to keep them fresh and flavorful.
Humidity
Keeping cigars at the right humidity is essential to preserve their flavor and aroma. Ideal humidity for cigar is 70-72%.
Temperature
Cigars should be stored between 65-70°F (18-21°C). High temperatures can cause the oils in the tobacco to evaporate, changing the flavor and aroma.
Building a Collection
Collecting cigars can be a fulfilling hobby, with many enthusiasts collecting rare and premium cigars. It’s essential to ensure proper storage when starting a cigar collection and learning how to identify high-quality cigars.
Benefits of Collection
Building a cigar collection allows you to enjoy various flavors and aromas that cannot easily be found elsewhere. It also serves as a conversation starter for aficionados and collectors alike.
Conclusion
In conclusion, cigar smoking can be a pleasurable and relaxing experience if done correctly. It’s essential to select the right cigar, cut, and light it correctly to achieve a satisfying smoking experience. While there are potential health risks associated with cigar smoking, moderation, and a basic understanding of cigar etiquette can help you enjoy it without offending others. Pairing cigars with drinks and food, collecting cigars, and learning how to identify high-quality cigars can enhance the smoking experience and serve as a fulfilling hobby.
