A Guide to Cigar Degassing

Degassing a cigar Degassing is a process used to remove bitter substances from a cigar. It is typically employed, for example, when the cigar has gone out or when it begins to taste bitter after about half of it has been smoked.

This doesn't indicate a reduction in quality. The fact that the flavor changes while smoking is completely natural, as gases are produced during the burning of a cigar, which can also affect its taste. As a result, you may find at some point that the cigar has developed an unpleasant bitterness. This occurs particularly often when the cigar is smoked too hot or in very short intervals, causing the tobacco to burn too quickly. This rapid combustion leads to the concentration of gases within the cigar that are responsible for the bitter taste. At this point, the enjoyment of smoking may be so diminished that you're tempted to put the cigar down. However, that would not only be unfortunate but also unnecessary. Instead, you can degas the cigar to restore its original flavor.

Degassing – A Multi-Step Process

Degassing a cigar is a process that involves several steps: First, the ash at the end of the cigar must be removed to reduce resistance as much as possible. Since this is essential for successful degassing, it should be done thoroughly and carefully. Next, the cigar is relit while gently drawing on it. This creates a small ember from the glowing tobacco. After that, blow as much air as possible through the cigar in reverse, causing a small flame to appear at the end. If the flame has a bluish tint, it indicates that the unwanted gases are burning off. Once this process is complete, the cigar’s tip may begin to burn itself, but this can easily—and with due caution—be blown out. At this point, the cigar will have lost its bitter substances and regained its original smoking aroma. If necessary, the degassing can be repeated later in the smoking process.

Before degassing, carefully tap off the ash into an ashtray.
Make sure the cigar is still glowing. If necessary, relight it.
Hold the flame of the lighter to the cigar’s tip and blow forcefully through the cigar.
Bitter substances and gases are expelled and burned off, which is why a blue flame appears.

This method is highly recommended for anyone who has ever complained about the bitter taste of a cigar. However, there are smokers who appreciate this bitterness and feel that it’s an essential part of the flavor development. And since taste is a matter of personal preference, the choice is yours—give it a try!