How to Light a Cigar | Lifestyle

by DaveSabot

On social occasions which are more formal and elegant, enjoying a cigar with the host is oftentimes a pleasant after-dinner activity. As is the case on any such occasion, there are some basic rules of etiquette that can make both the host and the guest enjoy the experience.

While lighting the cigar will be a large part of the experience, a cigar is enjoyed even before it is lit. If the host presents a cigar from a humidor it's likely a pricey one. The smell of cigars, even before they're burning, can be quite enjoyable. Go ahead and run it under the nose before lighting up or cutting it. The host will likely offer some information about its origins and the tobacco used. Cigars, unlike cigarettes, are much more than brand names.

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.

Most cigar smokers prefer either wooden matches or butane lighters. This has to do with the lighter fluid taste that can be impaired to the tobacco by other lighters. Ask for a match or a torch lighter if offered a cigar. Usually, a trimmer will be on hand. One will need to trim off the end of the cigar to expose the tobacco before lighting.

Cigars light much differently than cigarettes. Start by warming the cigar by holding the lighter below it and turning it in the mouth. The cigar will feel warm to the touch when it's ready to be lit. Simply lighting a cigar outright is definitely bad manners and will likely amuse aficionados at best, offend them at worst.

When lighting, repeat the process but puff hard enough to draw the flame to the cigar. Don't plunge the end of the cigar into the flame. This is not only poor etiquette; it ruins the flavor of the cigar. If the cigar doesn't light all the way through, which is often the case, pull it out of the mouth and blow on it to get the tobacco burning evenly. After that, the only etiquette involved is puffing away and enjoying the flavor. Remember that cigar smoke is not inhaled; it is simply puffed into the mouth where the flavor is more enjoyable.

DISCLAIMER: This article is provided as information only and is not to be taken as financial advice.

Dave Sabot is the owner of an online store featuring specialty butane lighters and torch lighters.