How to Light a Cigar

Whether you’re a seasoned aficionado or a beginner venturing into the world of cigars, knowing how to properly light a cigar is essential. The process is a ritual, one that needs precision, patience, and respect for the craftsmanship behind each cigar. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the cigar lighting techniques, etiquettes, and common mistakes to avoid, ensuring you get the most out of your smoking experience.

Why is Proper Cigar Lighting Important?

The right way to light a cigar goes beyond mere aesthetics. A properly lit cigar burns evenly, enhancing the flavor and allowing you to fully appreciate the smoke. An unevenly lit cigar can lead to uneven burning, often referred to as “canoeing,” which may ruin the taste and waste the cigar.

The Tools of the Trade: Cigar Lighting Accessories

For optimal results, it’s crucial to use the right tools. Common options include matches, lighters, and torches, and more traditional choices such as cedar spills and cedar strips.

Matches

If you’re lighting a cigar with matches, it’s recommended to use long, wooden matches. The sulfur on the tip of matchsticks can taint the cigar’s flavor, so let the sulfur burn off before bringing the flame close to the cigar.

Lighters

A lighter is a more convenient choice, but steer clear of lighters that use lighter fluid as it can negatively impact the flavor of the cigar. Butane lighters are a better choice as they’re odorless and tasteless.

Torches

Torches provide a powerful flame, making them an excellent choice for lighting cigars, especially in windy conditions. Their pinpoint accuracy can help light the cigar evenly without damaging the wrapper.

Cedar Spills and Cedar Strips

Cedar spills and strips are traditional and favored by many aficionados due to the natural, woody flavor they can impart to the cigar.

Candles

While lighting a cigar with a candle is technically possible, it’s generally not recommended as the wax and scent can contaminate the cigar’s taste.

The Art of Lighting a Cigar Properly

Once you’ve chosen your lighting tool, here are the steps to light a cigar correctly:

1. Toast the Foot: Hold the flame below the foot (the end you light) of the cigar without letting them touch. Rotate the cigar and evenly heat the entire surface. This process, known as toasting, prepares the cigar for the actual lighting.
2. Light the Cigar: Bring the cigar to your mouth. While continuing to hold the flame underneath the foot, puff gently while rotating the cigar. This draws the heat up, lighting the cigar.
3. Check the Ember: Check the foot of the cigar. It should have a glowing ember, and the burn should be even. If it’s not, you can correct it by gently blowing on the unlit sections or re-lighting them.

Remember, patience is key when lighting a cigar. Rushing can lead to a poorly lit cigar, impacting the burn and taste.

Cigar Lighting Etiquettes and Rituals

Cigar smoking is steeped in tradition, and lighting a cigar is a ritual in itself. Here are a few etiquettes you might want to keep in mind:

• Respect the cigar: Lighting a cigar isn’t merely about setting it aflame. It’s a process that begins with admiring the cigar, feeling its texture, and appreciating its aroma.
• Take your time: A well-lit cigar can enhance your smoking experience, so don’t rush the process. Enjoy each moment, from toasting the foot to the first draw.
• Sharing the flame: In social settings, it’s considered polite to offer to light another person’s cigar or pass along your flame for them to light their own.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Lighting a cigar might seem straightforward, but there are common mistakes many beginners make:

• Haste: Rushing the lighting process can lead to a poor burn and negatively affect the flavor of the cigar. Patience is essential.
• Incomplete Toasting: Failing to toast the entire foot of the cigar can cause an uneven burn. Make sure the foot is evenly toasted before the actual lighting.
• Using Incorrect Tools: Lighters with fluid, scented candles, and paper matches can all alter the taste of the cigar. Choose your lighting tool wisely.

In conclusion, the art of lighting a cigar lies in understanding the process, having the right tools, and showing respect for the ritual. With these guidelines in hand, you’re now equipped to light a cigar like a pro and enjoy the rich smoking experience it offers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I relight a cigar that went out?

Yes, you can. Remove any ash and gently blow through the cigar to remove old smoke. Then, follow the standard lighting process.

Is it necessary to rotate the cigar while lighting it?

Yes, rotating the cigar ensures an even burn and enhances the overall smoking experience.

Can I use a cigarette lighter to light a cigar?

While possible, it’s not recommended. Cigarette lighters may use lighter fluid, which can affect the taste of the cigar. Butane lighters are a better option.

How do I know if my cigar is properly lit?

A properly lit cigar will have a glowing ember at the foot, and the burn will be even. If the burn is uneven, you can correct it by gently blowing on the unlit sections or re-lighting them.