If you’re just beginning your journey into the world of cigars, you might not be familiar with how to truly savor the experience.
Don’t worry — GQ Tobaccos has crafted this comprehensive guide outlining essential tips and common pitfalls to help you get started on the right foot.
The do’s of cigar smoking
Before taking your first puff, gently warm the foot of the cigar — not with a flame, but simply by rolling it between your fingers. The natural warmth from your hand helps prepare it for lighting.
Once your cigar is lit, you can carefully remove the band. After about a minute, the adhesive will soften from the heat, making it easier to peel off without tearing the wrapper. While this is more of a traditional gesture, it’s no longer a strict rule and can be done at your discretion.
Take your time while smoking — One puff per minute is a good rhythm. Smoking a cigar is meant to be a relaxing ritual, not a race. There’s no need to rush, as a brief pause won’t cause it to extinguish.
Hold your cigar using your index finger and thumb — While not a functional necessity, this grip is a subtle mark of a seasoned cigar enthusiast and part of the tradition many continue to observe.
Let the cigar go out naturally — Once you’ve smoked about half of it, allow it to extinguish on its own. Smoking a cigar too far down can result in an unpleasantly harsh flavor.
Dispose of used cigars promptly and discreetly — A finished cigar should be discarded with care. Just like cigarette butts, an old cigar stub can be unsightly, so show respect by tidying up properly.
Give yourself at least 15 minutes before lighting another — Enjoyment comes from appreciation. Each cigar is unique, with its own flavor profile, and it’s best savored after a meal or alongside a post-dinner drink rather than rushed between commitments.
The don’ts of cigar smoking
Always use a proper cigar cutter — Avoid damaging the cigar by cutting or piercing it haphazardly. The right tools ensure a clean cut for a smooth draw.
Avoid putting the flame directly on the foot — Instead, gently toast the edges while rotating the cigar. Once the foot begins to smolder, you can start puffing lightly. The goal is to coax it to life, not set it ablaze.
Lighting your cigar is a personal moment — It’s customary to light your own cigar. While it’s perfectly fine to borrow a lighter or matches, the act of lighting should remain yours.
Don’t rush or delay the lighting — Approach the process steadily and attentively. A smooth, continuous toasting motion ensures an even burn and enhances the experience.
Avoid drawing attention to yourself — Whether lighting or smoking, this moment should be personal and reflective. Resist the urge to show off; focus instead on the peaceful enjoyment the cigar brings.
If less than a quarter remains, don’t relight — At this point, the cigar has given its best. Relighting too frequently, especially near the end, results in a bitter and unpleasant smoke.
Don’t put the cigar in your mouth to relight it — This is considered impolite. Instead, hold it delicately between your fingers, rotating it while gently toasting the foot once more.
Keep the cigar out of your teeth — It’s far more refined to hold a cigar with your hand. Avoid clenching it or speaking with it in your mouth — remove it before talking.
Don’t moisten the end unnecessarily — Only do so if the cigar is burning unevenly. In that case, dampen a fingertip and touch the fast-burning side to help slow it down.
Take your time — don’t rush the smoke — The pleasure of a cigar lies in a slow, measured experience. If you’re in a hurry, perhaps it’s not the right time to light one up.
Skip the cigar holder — Part of the experience is the tactile connection. Feeling the cigar helps you detect issues like overheating or poor construction, which are lost with a holder.
Avoid using objects like toothpicks or matchsticks to hold the cigar — Maintain proper etiquette by always holding your cigar with your fingers, even while drawing.
Don’t smoke while walking in public — Though you may appreciate the aroma, others may not. Be mindful of those with sensitivities or health conditions who could be adversely affected by the smoke.
Get in touch with any questions
If you’re unsure about cigar etiquette or just want some advice, feel free to reach out to GQ Tobaccos. We offer an extensive collection of cigars, including Cuban, New World, and Machine-Made varieties.
