How to Put Out a Cigar for Later

Every cigar enthusiast knows that a well-made cigar is a treasure. It’s a symphony of flavors, a journey to be savored over time. But what if you can’t finish your smoke in one go? Whether you’re interrupted or simply want to save the rest for later, knowing how to properly extinguish and store your cigar is critical. In this comprehensive guide, we will discuss the art of putting out a cigar for later use, ensuring that your smoke remains fresh and your experience remains magnificent.

Cut and Keep It Clean

First, you should keep your cigar clean. Even if you’re putting it out for later, you want to maintain the integrity of your smoke. Make sure you knock off any ash before extinguishing the cigar. This allows the cigar to go out naturally and makes it easier to relight later.

Cutting your cigar, whether at the start or midway, should always be done with a sharp, clean cutter. This reduces the risk of damaging the cigar and allows for a cleaner, more enjoyable smoke when you relight it.

Store a Half-Smoked Cigar for Later

If you wish to store a half-smoked cigar, there are a few things you need to bear in mind.

1. Extinguish Properly: Allow the cigar to extinguish on its own. Snuffing out a cigar will trap smoke and make your cigar taste bitter upon relighting.
2. Proper Storage: Store the cigar outside your humidor to prevent the smell of the burnt end from affecting your other cigars.
3. Seal It: Place the half-smoked cigar in a resealable plastic bag.

Remember to smoke it within 24 hours for the best taste and quality.

Clear It Out before Puffing It Again

Before you relight a half-smoked cigar, you’ll want to prep it a bit.

1. Brush Off Ash: Clear away any loose ash from the foot of the cigar.
2. Purge: Take a draw on the cigar and blow out through it without lighting it. This is called purging and it helps remove stale smoke from the cigar.
3. Re-Cut: Trim the end of the cigar to give it a fresh edge.
4. Relight: Finally, light your cigar as you would normally.

Is It Okay to Stub Out a Cigar?

In short, no. Stubbing out a cigar is frowned upon as it crushes the structure of the cigar and releases unpleasant smells. This can alter the taste of your cigar and reduce the quality of your smoke. Always allow your cigar to extinguish naturally.

Cigar Maintenance: Cutting, Lighting, and Ash Handling

Proper cigar maintenance extends beyond just the extinguishing process. To ensure a great smoking experience, be sure to also follow these steps.

Cutting

Properly cutting your cigar is vital for ensuring a good draw. Use a specialized cigar cutter and make a clean, quick cut on the cap of the cigar, just above the shoulder (where the cigar starts to taper).

Lighting

Use a butane lighter or a wooden match to light your cigar. Avoid petrol lighters or scented candles, as these can alter the cigar’s flavour. Hold the cigar at a 45-degree angle and toast the foot (the end you light) before puffing and rotating the cigar.

Ash Handling

Ash should be allowed to build up to an inch or so before being gently tapped off. This ash helps to keep the cigar burning at the correct temperature.

How to Put Out a Cigar for Later: What to Keep in Mind?

When it comes to putting out a cigar for later, there are a few key points to remember:

• Never stub out a cigar, always let it go out naturally.
• Remove ash before extinguishing.
• Store the cigar properly to maintain its flavor and quality.
• Purge and re-cut your cigar before relighting.

The Etiquette of Stubbing Out a Cigar

Cigar smoking comes with its own set of etiquettes and stubbing out a cigar is no exception. As mentioned, one should never stub out a cigar as you would a cigarette. It should be allowed to go out naturally. Furthermore, once a cigar has been smoked past its halfway point, it is generally considered finished.

Important Considerations for Putting Out a Cigar for Later

While it is possible to save a cigar for later, it is important to note that the quality of the cigar may diminish the longer it is left extinguished. The flavour and aroma can change after being extinguished, which might affect the overall smoking experience. Therefore, it is generally best to enjoy a cigar in one sitting whenever possible.

Exceptional Cigars Worth Saving for Future Moments

There are some cigars that are worth saving for future moments. These tend to be high-quality, expensive cigars that provide a complex and rich flavour profile. Examples include the Cohiba Behike, Padron Serie 1926, and the Arturo Fuente Opus X.

In conclusion, properly extinguishing, storing, and refreshing a cigar can make a significant difference to your smoking experience. By following the correct techniques, you can extend the life of your cigar and enhance your overall enjoyment.