The Art of Cigar Preperation
The enjoyment of a fine handmade cigar begins long before the first draw. Preparation is part of the ritual — a moment to slow down, focus, and savour the experience from start to finish. Selecting, cutting, lighting, and finally smoking your cigar should never be hurried. Take your time; this is as much about ceremony as it is about flavour.
Cutting Your Cigar
The ritual begins with the cut. Most aficionados agree that the cleanest and most precise method is to use a guillotine-style cutter. Avoid the temptation to use your teeth, a knife, or your fingernail — a poorly made cut can damage the cap and ruin the cigar’s construction. The goal is a sharp, even cut that allows a smooth draw without fraying the wrapper.
Lighting the Perfect Cigar
Lighting is equally important and should be done with care. Use a butane lighter or long wooden match — never petrol lighters, which can taint the flavour. Let the flame gently toast the foot of the cigar, rotating it until the edges glow evenly before taking your first puff. This ensures an even burn and allows the true flavours to unfold from the very first draw.
Older, well-aged cigars tend to light and burn more easily than younger ones, but all should be smoked slowly. Puffing too frequently can cause overheating, leading to bitterness and spoiling the delicate balance of flavours.
Relighting and Etiquette
If your cigar goes out — don’t panic. It’s perfectly normal, especially once you’ve smoked halfway. Gently tap away any ash, blow through the cigar to clear stale smoke, and relight as you would a fresh one.
There are, however, two firm rules every cigar lover should remember:
- Never roll a cigar near your ear — it tells you nothing about its quality.
- Never pre-warm a cigar — it serves no purpose and risks damaging the wrapper.
Savouring the Ritual
The pleasure of a handmade cigar lies not only in its aroma and taste but in the mindfulness it inspires. Each step — the cut, the light, the draw — is a small act of appreciation for craftsmanship, patience, and the time-honoured traditions of cigar making.