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A Gentleman's Guide to Cigar Etiquette: Cutting, Lighting, and Puffing

Cigars are meant to be savored, and with proper etiquette, the experience becomes even more enjoyable. Here's a step-by-step guide to elevate your cigar smoking:

Before You Begin:

  • Be mindful of your surroundings: Smoke only in designated areas like cigar lounges or well-ventilated outdoor spaces. Avoid bothering non-smokers with lingering cigar aroma.

Bonus Tips:

  • Don't hold the cigar in your mouth: This can make it burn hotter and ruin the flavor.

  • Don't inhale: Cigars are meant to be enjoyed through the palate, not the lungs.

  • Sip a drink: Water or coffee are great companions to cleanse your palate and enhance the cigar's taste.

  • By following these steps, you'll be well on your way to becoming a cigar aficionado who respects the art of the smoke. Remember, the key is to relax, take your time, and enjoy the experience.

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Cutting

Cutting:

  1. Select your cutter: A proper cigar cutter ensures a clean cut without damaging the wrapper. Popular options include the guillotine cutter and the v-cut cutter.

  2. Identify the cap and foot: The closed end of the cigar is the cap, and the open end is the foot. We'll be cutting the cap.

  3. Measure your cut: Ideally, the cut should remove a thin sliver of the cap without severing the binder leaves underneath. A good rule of thumb is to take off no more than 1/16th of the cap.

  4. Make a clean cut: Place the cutter on the cap, avoiding the barrel (the main body of the cigar). Squeeze firmly for a clean snip.

Lighting

  1. Ditch the matches: Opt for a butane lighter to avoid introducing unwanted flavors from lighter fluid.

  2. Slow and steady wins the race: Hold the cigar an inch or so from the flame and slowly rotate it, allowing the foot to evenly light up. You're aiming for a cherry red ember, not a char.

  3. Patience is key: Avoid puffing right away. Let the ember establish itself for about a minute.

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Puffing

  1. Small and gentle puffs: Unlike cigarettes, cigars are meant to be enjoyed slowly. Take small, gentle puffs, savoring the aroma and flavors.

  2. Let the cigar breathe: In between puffs, allow the cigar to rest. Constant puffing can make it burn hot and harsh.

  3. Ash gracefully: Long, elegant ashes are a sign of a well-smoked cigar. However, don't let the ash get too long; tap it gently on the ashtray when it reaches about an inch.

  4. Nurture the ember: If the cigar goes out, don't re-light it forcefully. Toast the end gently with the flame and puff slowly to re-establish the ember.

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