Survival Skills: How to Smoke a Cigar

Survival Skills: How to Smoke a Cigar

Like a lot of activities, trying something new for the first time can be a daunting prospect, and cigar smoking is no exception.

Whilst some simpletons may think you just put it in your mouth and light the other end, you’re obviously more switched on and know there’s a little more to it than that.

So here’s a quick and easy guide which will teach you how to smoke a cigar like the sophisticated, refined character you were born to be.

How to Smoke a Cigar

Jump to:

• Choosing a Cigar
• Where to Smoke a Cigar
• Cutting a Cigar
• Toasting a Cigar
• Lighting a Cigar
• Smoking a Cigar

How to Choose a Cigar

If you’ve already sourced your cigar, feel free to skip this section, but if you’re looking for some guidance on just where to start on your cigar smoking adventure, you’re going to want to hang around for this bit.

The best advice to give is research, research, RESEARCH!

Everyone’s tastes are different, so make sure you research a variety of cigars to gauge what you think would suit you.

Party On Tip – Just because it’s expensive, it doesn’t mean it will result in a better first-time experience!

To start, you’re going to want to look for a mild cigar, nothing too overpowering – you can gradually build up to stronger varieties.

People often confuse mild with bland, but just because it’s a bit more subtle, it doesn’t mean it isn’t top drawer.

Mild curries are chocked full of flavour and, like with cigars, you wouldn’t order a vindaloo on your first outing, you’d build-up to it.

Where to Smoke a Cigar

Possibly not something you would have considered, but choosing the right environment to smoke your cigar is vital to the experience.

You simply can’t be rushed, distracted or tense otherwise it will sully the whole event.

Find a nice calm place, whether you prefer to unwind in silence or with a bit of music and a drink, kick back, follow the steps correctly, and enjoy!

How to Cut a Cigar

If you want the perfect cut, it may be worth investing in a bespoke cigar cutter, however, as it’s your first foray into the wonderful world of cigars, a sharp knife will suffice.

Be sure not to cut too far down, just the end will do (about an eighth of an inch), and ensure you do it in one swift motion so as it burns evenly.

How to Toast a Cigar

No, this doesn’t mean to toast as in with drinks.

Toasting the cigar is when you apply heat to the end to warm the tobacco and blow for an easier and even burn.

Simply hold your cigar at and angle and rotate above the head of the flame without actually touching the end of the cigar.

How to Light a Cigar

Using your lighter or matches, light then end of your cigar, puffing as you do so (don’t inhale).

Once you feel smoke in your mouth you know your cigar is lit.

Check the end to ensure it is burning evenly.

How to Smoke a Cigar

Now for the crescendo – actually smoking it!

First off the bat, you’re going to want to blow out and not in to allow the smoke that has built up inside the cigar to be released.

Once this is done, you can draw back on your cigar, allowing the smoke to enter your mouth – again, don’t inhale, simply blow out when you feel you’ve enjoyed the tastes.

Remember to take your time and enjoy it!

Party On Tip – Don’t tap the ash, let it fall off naturally. The ash prevents the cigar from over-heating and leaving a bitter taste.