Preparing to smoke a cigar is a ritualistic experience, and each step offers its own enjoyable rewards. Remember: the personal-and primal- interaction between a smoker and his/her cigar should never be interfered with or rush.

Inspection

Inspecting the outer leaf may take only a brief amount of time, but I always examine my choice of smoke carefully. Look for small holes that might suggest the presences of beetles. Then, check to see if your humidor maintains the 70/70 rules (cigars should ideally be maintained at 70 F with 70% humidity). If not, your selection may be too dry or too moist. Also examine the condition of the wrapper.

Aroma

Inhale the wrapper’s natural aroma. The essence is usually subtle, but pleasing, as it penetrates your olfactory receptors.

Cut

A closed-head cigar must be cut before the cigar can be smoked. Although there are several ways to cut a cigar, each smoker chooses the technique he/she likes best. The better the cigar, the more attention you’ll want to pay to the cut. The object of the cut is to create an ample, clean opening without damaging the cigar’s structure. Various tools for this purpose include single- or double-guillotine cutters, v-cutters, and cigar scissors. You can also use a punch, pierce, sharp knife, or, in a pinch, your teeth. Make the cut about one-sixteenth of an inch from the shoulder, the place where the curved end starts to straighten out. If you make the cut too big, the wrapper may start to unravel. Cut boldly, using a swift motion and evenly applied pressure. Remember: a bad cut can ruin a cigar!

Lighting

Lighting a cigar isn’t like lighting a cigarette or a candle. Keep the cigar above and near the flame, but don’t let them touch. Rotate the cigar so that the tip is lit equally. Once lit, gently blow on the cigar’s embers to create a smooth-rounded ash. Never light a cigar from a source that will alter the essence of your cigar. Candles, sulphur matches, and fluid lighters can add an odd flavor. Instead, use butane lighters or the spills (cedar strips).

Once your cigar is lit, sit back and enjoy the relaxing and soothing experience of smoking. You will find that all of your careful, detailed preparation has paid off.

If you have any questions either about cigars or about equipment that will enhance your smoking experience, please contact the The Humidor (c/o) SoCo Magazine) by writing to 209 Huttleston Avenue, Fairhaven MA 02717, or by calling 508 994 9942. We will be happy to find an answer for you.