Dave Sabot

Lighting a Cigar

Smoking a cigar is a different affair than smoking a cigarette. There are etiquette concerns regarding when and where it's appropriate to light up as much as there are etiquette concerns regarding how one lights up. Following both is certain to make the experience more enjoyable for everyone involved.

Regarding the place and time, make certain to ask any host whether it's okay to smoke cigars. Asking whether or not it's okay to smoke is usually not enough. Most people will assume that this question regards cigarettes which are an entirely different thing than a cigar. Most often, those who enjoy smoking cigars will do so in a specific room. Cigars have a wonderful aroma but it is a strong aroma. Make certain a host or establishment doesn't object before puffing on a cigar.

The host will generally offer a cutter. This is used to cut away the sealed end of the cigar so that it can be smoked. Make sure to hold the cigar over an ashtray when doing this. The scent just after cutting can be quite enjoyable, as well, so enjoy the aroma! Next comes the actual lighting which is something of an art.

A true aficionado will offer either a torch cigar lighter or a box of matches. Lighting using either method is identical. There are three faux-pas of which one must beware when lighting a cigar: lighting the cigar without first warming it; holding the cigar in the flame; and over-heating the tobacco.

First, hold the flame under the cigar and warm it by rotating it in the mouth. One can gauge when the cigar is ready to be lit when the wrapper is warm to the touch. Lighting the cigar is much different than lighting a cigarette. Instead of holding the flame to the cigar, one draws it toward the cigar by puffing slightly and continuing to rotate the cigar. This ensures an even light. Blow on the cigar to get it burning evenly.

Cigars are not inhaled as are cigarettes. Use short puffs to draw the smoke into the mouth. If the cigar wanes, a little bit of vigorous puffing is usually all that's required to get it going again. A cigar may be extinguished and relit so don't be afraid to put it out if it's more cigar than is desired at one sitting. Properly-lit cigars can burn for a long time and making sure it's done right from the start ensures an excellent smoking experience.

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