Smoking a Cigar Properly - Our Tips & Tricks

Smoking Cigars – A Global Synonym for Sophisticated Tobacco Enjoyment

Strictly speaking, a cigar is not "smoked." In the world of aficionados, when people talk about smoking, they actually mean puffing on a cigar.

Puffing a Cigar or Smoking It into the Lungs? A passionate cigar smoker always opts for puffing. The smoke is drawn into the mouth for a moment, where the flavor unfolds before being exhaled directly.

If you've ever accidentally or out of ignorance inhaled a cigar like a cigarette, you likely know that this is not the right way. Cigar smoke is much heavier and stronger because a cigar, in addition to having a larger amount of tobacco, is rolled much firmer than a cigarette, which is more loosely packed.

Puffing a cigar has the advantage of being better tolerated (and is less harmful to health). A cigar thrives on its different and unique flavors. Puffing a cigar is not about quickly satisfying a craving for nicotine – it’s about slow, steady enjoyment. It’s about giving the aromas and taste nuances the space and time to fully develop and enjoying them consciously. The same care you take to find the right cigar for yourself should be applied to how you enjoy the cigar – puffing it the right way.

Which Cigar is Right for You?

To enjoy a cigar properly, the right type for a relaxed smoking experience must be found. If you're new to the world of cigars, take your time with the selection. Visit a specialist retailer and embark on a journey of discovery by looking at and admiring the many different formats and artistic packaging. Perhaps a Dunhill Aged Valverdes (Corona) might be the right choice for you? Or maybe you’d like to try a VegaFina Robusto in the classic Robusto format? In any case, you should start with a cigar that is relatively mild. Don’t overwhelm yourself. Take your time selecting at a specialist store – they can certainly assist you in finding the right cigar or cigars for you. You don't have to buy a whole box of a particular cigar; try a few different ones to discover which formats and flavors best suit your personal taste. The different growing regions also play an important role. Generally, tobaccos from the Dominican Republic are milder and especially good for beginners. Once you’ve found the right cigar, find a nice spot in a comfortable setting, bring plenty of time, and then the enjoyment can begin: puffing on your cigar and savoring it.

The Right Storage for Cigars

For a pleasurable experience, proper storage of cigars is crucial. For both beginners and passionate cigar lovers, Amatista is ideal. This is an airtight glass container that keeps 25 to 50 cigars fresh because it prevents moisture from entering or escaping due to the seal.

Cutting the Cigar

Properly cutting a cigar also contributes to an enhanced smoking experience. The best methods for cutting a cigar include:

• Double-blade cutter: This allows you to experience the pleasure of smoking slice by slice.
• V-cutter: The classic method, which opens the cigar with a notched cut.
• Cigar punch: To preserve the cigar's wrapper, use a cigar punch.
• Cigar scissors: A handy method for cutting a cigar.

Lighting the Cigar

There are several methods for lighting a cigar. The different options for lighting a cigar are briefly outlined here:

• Lighting a cigar with a regular lighter or a jet lighter
• Lighting a cigar with matches
• Lighting a cigar with cedar wood

It is not recommended to use a petrol lighter or to light a cigar from a candle flame. Both the gasoline-like taste of the petrol lighter and the oils in the candle negatively affect the cigar’s flavor.

Puffing a Cigar – The Right Technique for True Enjoyment

The right place is found, and the cigar is cut. What’s next? First, the cigar must be properly lit. Take the cigar between your thumb and forefinger, and light it with a gas lighter (or, if you value style, feel free to use a cedar wood strip). Begin by lighting the outer edges while slowly turning the cigar between your fingers. This not only increases the anticipation, but it also ensures an even result. Finally, light the center of the cigar. Once it’s evenly glowing, the enjoyment can begin: puffing on your cigar.

As mentioned, the smoke is not inhaled when puffing on a cigar. Instead, you draw on it and leave the smoke in your mouth for a few seconds. Let the smoke swirl around and experience how the flavors slowly unfold and change on your tongue and palate. Give your taste receptors time to absorb and enjoy the subtle flavor nuances. Then slowly release the smoke from your mouth. Be sure not to smoke too quickly: The cigar might become too hot, which would damage its flavors. Puffing a cigar is about time and quality of life. You’re here to enjoy, not to rush. One puff per minute is more than enough. Likewise, don’t pull too hard on the cigar, as this can lead to the same result: the cigar could get too hot, lose its flavors, and develop an unpleasant sharpness. But if you puff your cigar correctly, you’ll be amazed at how many different flavors a cigar can develop when enjoyed properly: coffee and roasted flavors, earthiness, chocolate, herbs, or spices – a good cigar can create a true flavor explosion on your palate if you give it the chance.