Article by R. Abilash, Founder and CEO of CigarsIndia.in

Introduction

There’s a certain elegance to smoking a cigar that goes far beyond just lighting one up. A fine cigar is a piece of craftsmanship, carefully rolled by hand and designed to deliver flavor, aroma, and experience in perfect harmony. Yet, many beginners unintentionally ruin this ritual with clumsy cuts, harsh lighting techniques, or improper smoking habits. The good news? With the right guidance, you can smoke like a seasoned aficionado — not a rookie.

Step 1: The Proper Cut

The cut is the first—and perhaps most important—step to enjoying your cigar. Do it wrong, and you risk unraveling the wrapper or creating a draw that’s too tight or too loose.

• Identify the Cap: Every premium cigar is finished with a small piece of tobacco leaf at the head called the cap. Never cut below this line, or the cigar will unravel.

• Choose Your Cutter:

  • Guillotine (Straight Cut) – Best for beginners; gives a clean, classic draw.

  • V-Cut – Produces a concentrated stream of smoke and intensifies flavor.

  • Punch Cutter – Creates a small hole; great for those who prefer a slower smoke.

• Execution: Hold the cigar steady and make a quick, decisive cut. A hesitant snip will crush the cigar instead of slicing it cleanly.

Pro Tip: Always cut less than you think you should — you can cut more if needed, but you can’t replace what you’ve taken off.

Step 2: Lighting with Elegance

Lighting a cigar is not the same as flicking a cigarette lighter. This is a ritual.

• Choose the Right Flame: Use a butane torch lighter or wooden cigar matches. Avoid candles or petrol lighters as they taint the flavor.

• Toasting the Foot: Hold the cigar at a 45-degree angle, about an inch above the flame. Gently rotate the cigar while warming the foot (the open end) until it glows evenly. This ensures an even burn.

• The Final Draw: Once toasted, place the cigar in your mouth and gently puff while continuing to rotate above the flame. The goal is an even red glow across the foot, without scorching or blackening the wrapper.

Pro Tip: Never rush this step. A perfectly lit cigar sets the tone for the entire experience.

Step 3: The Art of Smoking

Now comes the part where many rookies make mistakes — puffing too often, inhaling like a cigarette, or letting the cigar burn out too quickly.

• Don’t Inhale: Cigar smoke is meant to be savored in the mouth, not the lungs. Draw slowly, hold the smoke for a moment to appreciate its flavors, then exhale gracefully.

• Pace Yourself: Puff once every 45–60 seconds. Too fast, and the cigar overheats, creating bitterness. Too slow, and it may go out.

• Ashing the Right Way: Let the ash build naturally to about an inch before gently tapping it off. A long ash actually helps the cigar burn cooler and straighter.

• Know When to Stop: Unlike cigarettes, cigars aren’t meant to be smoked down to a stub. When it becomes too hot or loses flavor, simply let it rest and go out on its own.

Cigar Etiquette: Avoid Rookie Mistakes

• Don’t lick or chew on your cigar before cutting.

• Don’t stub it out in the ashtray — just let it die with dignity.

• Don’t relight more than once or twice; it affects the taste.

• Don’t talk with a cigar dangling in your mouth — it looks sloppy.

Conclusion

Cutting, lighting, and smoking a cigar is a ritual that commands respect — for the cigar, and for yourself. Do it right, and you elevate the experience from a mere smoke to a moment of indulgence, class, and relaxation. The next time you sit down with a fine cigar, remember these steps, take your time, and enjoy the artistry. Because cigars aren’t about rushing — they’re about savoring life, one puff at a time.