Can You Put Out a Cigar for Later? The Definitive Guide

Yes, you technically can put out a cigar and relight it later, but whether you should is a question of taste, experience, and understanding the consequences. Prepare for a deep dive into the smoky depths of cigar etiquette and reclaim your smokes!

The Grim Reality: Relighting a Cigar

Let’s be brutally honest: relighting a cigar is almost never as enjoyable as smoking it continuously from the start. The process irrevocably alters the cigar’s flavor profile, often introducing bitter or acrid notes that weren’t present initially. Think of it like reheating a gourmet meal – while technically edible, it will not hold its original luster.

Why does this happen? Several factors are at play:

• The Stale Smoke: When a cigar is extinguished, the residual smoke trapped within the leaves begins to stagnate. This stale smoke, filled with undesirable compounds, is the first thing you’ll inhale upon relighting. It often tastes harsh and unpleasant.
• The Charred End: The burning end of the cigar, known as the foot, becomes heavily charred. This charring process intensifies the bitterness of the tobacco, contributing to the off-flavors. Imagine tasting burnt toast – that’s the ballpark we’re playing in here.
• Moisture Loss: A cigar that sits extinguished for any length of time will lose moisture. This dryness can impact the draw and the overall smoking experience, making the cigar burn hotter and faster.
• Flavor Compounds Alteration: The complex chemical reactions that occur during combustion are disrupted when the cigar is put out. These disruptions lead to the breakdown and alteration of flavor compounds, resulting in a less nuanced and less enjoyable smoke.

When Relighting is Unavoidable

Despite the drawbacks, there are situations where relighting a cigar is unavoidable. Perhaps time constraints, unforeseen circumstances, or simply underestimating the size of the cigar lead to a premature snuffing. In these cases, minimizing the damage is key:

• Proper Extinguishing: Avoid crushing or stubbing out the cigar, as this damages the wrapper and further intensifies the bitterness. Instead, let it die out naturally in an ashtray. This allows for a more gradual cooling and reduces the amount of acrid smoke trapped within.
• Clean the Foot: Before relighting, gently brush off any loose ash from the foot of the cigar. This will remove some of the charred material and improve the initial flavor. You can use a cigar punch or cutter to create a fresh surface for relighting.
• Purge the Stale Smoke: Hold the cigar at a 45-degree angle with the foot pointing down, then gently blow through it. This purging process helps to expel some of the stale smoke trapped within the cigar and cleanses the palate for a smoother experience.
• Relight with Care: Use a butane torch lighter to evenly toast the foot of the cigar. Avoid directly scorching the tobacco, as this will only exacerbate the bitterness. Aim for an even, cherry-red glow across the entire foot.
• Expect the Initial Harshness: Be prepared for the first few puffs to be less than ideal. This is normal. As the cigar burns past the initial charred layer, the flavor should improve.

Better Alternatives Than Relighting

While relighting is a possibility, prevention is always the best policy. Consider these alternatives:

• Choose a Smaller Cigar: If you have limited time, opt for a smaller cigar vitola (size and shape). This will allow you to finish the cigar without having to relight it.
• Smoke Slower: Take longer, more deliberate puffs. This will help you savor the flavor and extend the smoking time, reducing the likelihood of having to put it out.
• Designate Smoking Time: Carve out dedicated time for enjoying your cigar without interruptions. This allows for a more relaxing and fulfilling experience.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Does the type of cigar affect relighting?

Yes, full-bodied cigars with strong, robust flavors tend to hold up better to relighting than milder cigars. However, even with full-bodied cigars, the flavor will still be altered. The cigar’s age can play a role as well, with properly aged cigars being more resilient to some of the harshness associated with relighting.

2. How long can I wait before relighting a cigar?

The shorter the wait, the better. Ideally, you should relight the cigar within a few hours. Waiting longer than 24 hours significantly increases the risk of the cigar drying out and developing unpleasant flavors. Beyond that, the cigar may never burn correctly again.

3. Will humidifying a relit cigar improve the flavor?

Yes, rehumidifying a cigar before relighting will certainly help improve the flavor. Returning moisture to the cigar will mitigate some of the harshness and dry taste associated with relighting a dried-out cigar. Always store your half-smoked cigars in a separate container within your humidor to avoid affecting other cigars.

4. What’s the best way to store a half-smoked cigar?

The optimal method is to use a cigar travel case or a small, airtight container with a humidity pack. Store it separately from your other cigars to prevent the transfer of stale smoke odors. Some aficionados use a Ziploc bag with a small Boveda pack, a clean, food-safe container, or a small, sealed Tupperware.

5. Does relighting a cigar affect its aroma?

Yes, the aroma will definitely change. The initial aroma upon relighting is often dominated by the stale smoke and charred tobacco notes, lacking the complexity and nuance of a freshly lit cigar. The aroma should become more pleasant as it burns down.

6. Is it impolite to relight a cigar in a social setting?

In most social cigar settings, it is generally considered acceptable, especially if it’s done discreetly and without disrupting others. However, it’s always a good idea to gauge the atmosphere and the preferences of those around you. If you’re unsure, it’s best to ask.

7. Can I use a regular lighter to relight a cigar?

While you can, it’s not recommended. Regular lighters often use butane fuel and can impart a gasoline-like taste to the cigar. A butane torch lighter or cedar spills are the preferred methods, as they provide a clean flame without unwanted flavors.

8. Does the size of the cigar affect the likelihood of successfully relighting it?

Larger cigars generally hold up better to relighting than smaller cigars. Their greater mass and denser tobacco allow them to retain moisture and flavor more effectively. Smaller cigars, on the other hand, tend to dry out quickly and become overly bitter when relit.

9. Is there any way to completely eliminate the bitterness when relighting a cigar?

Unfortunately, no. While you can minimize the bitterness through proper techniques, it’s nearly impossible to completely eliminate it. The chemical changes that occur during combustion and the accumulation of stale smoke are simply unavoidable.

10. Will relighting affect the burn rate of the cigar?

Yes, relighting a cigar can affect its burn rate. The initial burn after relighting may be uneven or faster than usual, as the tobacco is often drier and more prone to rapid combustion. This is largely due to the unevenly charred and dried tobacco that had previously gone out.

11. Are there any cigars specifically designed for multiple smoking sessions?

No, there are no cigars explicitly designed for multiple sessions. Every cigar is intended to be smoked from beginning to end for optimal enjoyment. While some brands might use tobacco blends that are more resilient to relighting, this is not their primary design consideration.

12. What’s the worst thing that can happen if I relight a cigar improperly?

The worst outcome is a completely unpalatable smoking experience characterized by intense bitterness, harsh flavors, and an unpleasant aroma. You might also experience an uneven burn, a tight draw, or even a cracked wrapper due to the rapid changes in moisture and temperature. In extreme cases, the cigar may simply become unsmokable.