Cigars are more than tobacco — they are a ritual. From lighting and smoking to how we handle them in company, there’s an etiquette that has been passed down through generations of aficionados. In 1967, Zino Davidoff outlined a “charter” of cigar etiquette in his essay for connoisseurs. More than 50 years later, his guidance remains as relevant as ever.
Yet, just as cultures differ, so do the unspoken rules of cigar smoking across the globe. Here’s a guide to cigar etiquette in the UK — with a look at how customs vary worldwide.
Davidoff’s Timeless Rules of Cigar Etiquette
Davidoff’s essay highlighted both the dos and don’ts of cigar smoking, designed to preserve dignity and respect the cigar — and those around you.
The Do’s
- Warm the foot gently before lighting.
- Rotate the cigar above the flame, never plunging it into the fire.
- Puff slowly — about once per minute is ideal.
- Hold the cigar between thumb and index finger.
- Let the cigar die naturally rather than crushing it out.
- Remove the band only once the cigar has warmed, to avoid damaging the wrapper.
- Dispose of a finished cigar discreetly.
- Leave at least 15 minutes between cigars.
The Don’ts
- Don’t use a penknife or makeshift cutter — invest in proper tools.
- Don’t dunk cigars in port or brandy (sorry, Winston Churchill).
- Don’t clench, chew, or slobber on the cigar.
- Don’t rush — smoking too quickly overheats the tobacco.
- Don’t relight a cigar that’s mostly finished.
- Don’t crush a cigar in an ashtray — let it fade out naturally.
- Don’t chain-smoke cigars — moderation is key.
Cigar Etiquette in the UK
In Britain, tradition plays a large role in cigar etiquette:
- The Band – Traditionally removed after lighting. Keeping it on was once seen as “bad form,” a way of showing off the brand. Though less rigid today, many UK smokers still quietly remove it.
- The Setting – Cigars are associated with relaxed, social environments: gentlemen’s clubs, drawing rooms, and after-dinner rituals. Lighting up on the move — walking or commuting — is often frowned upon.
- Discretion – British cigar culture values understatement. Flashy lighting rituals and brand-name dropping are generally avoided.
Cigar Etiquette Around the World
- United States: More relaxed. Bands are often left on, and cigars are celebrated socially in lounges, bars, and outdoor spaces. Displaying the brand is not seen as impolite.
- Cuba: Cigars are part of everyday life. Etiquette is less formal, but respect for craftsmanship remains strong — locals may light with matches and share cigars generously.
- Latin America (Nicaragua, Dominican Republic, Honduras): Factories often provide education on cutting and lighting, reinforcing the idea that cigars are meant to be enjoyed slowly and respectfully.
- Europe (outside UK): Continental smokers are less concerned with “showing off.” It’s common to leave the band on and smoke in cafés or social plazas.
- Asia (China, Japan, Middle East): Cigar smoking is strongly associated with business, status, and gifting. Here, etiquette focuses on presentation and sharing — cigars are often offered generously in formal settings.
Modern Etiquette for Today’s Aficionados
While traditions remain important, modern cigar etiquette emphasises:
- Respect for others – Be mindful of non-smokers and smoking laws.
- Proper storage – Offering a guest a poorly kept cigar is bad form.
- Sharing knowledge gently – Avoid lecturing; let curiosity guide conversation.
- Enjoyment over ritual – Rules exist to enhance the experience, not restrict it.
Final Puff
From Zino Davidoff’s timeless guidance to cultural nuances across the world, cigar etiquette is less about strict rules and more about respect: respect for the cigar, respect for the moment, and respect for others.
In the UK, tradition still leans toward subtlety and discretion, while elsewhere the focus may be on sharing or celebration. But wherever you smoke, the golden rule is the same: take your time, savour the cigar, and enjoy the company you keep.
Browse our range of Cuban and New World cigars and practise the art of cigar etiquette with every smoke.