What Side of a Cigar Do You Light? A Connoisseur’s Guide

You light the foot of the cigar, the open end opposite the capped end you put in your mouth. This is the fundamental starting point for any enjoyable cigar experience, setting the stage for the symphony of flavors to come.

The Art of Lighting: More Than Just Fire

While the answer to “what side of a cigar do you light?” seems straightforward, the process itself is an art form. It’s not just about applying flame; it’s about coaxing the cigar to life, ensuring an even burn and unlocking its full potential. A poorly lit cigar can lead to uneven burning, a harsh taste, and a generally disappointing experience. Think of it as calibrating a finely tuned instrument – precision matters.

Why the Foot? Understanding Cigar Construction

Understanding why we light the foot is crucial. Cigars are constructed with the filler tobacco, the binder leaf holding it together, and the wrapper leaf providing the final touch and crucial flavors. The foot is where all these components are exposed, allowing for a more comprehensive and controlled ignition. Lighting the capped end would be futile – it’s designed to be clipped, not torched.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Lighting Cigars

Here are 12 frequently asked questions to further refine your cigar lighting prowess:

1. What’s the best way to light a cigar?

There’s no single “best” way, but the most common and recommended method involves using a butane torch lighter. Hold the cigar at a 45-degree angle to the flame and gently toast the foot, rotating it to ensure an even char. Avoid directly touching the flame to the cigar; instead, use the heat. Once the foot is evenly charred, bring the flame closer and puff gently until the entire foot is glowing red. This process is called toasting and blooming the cigar.

2. Can I use a match to light a cigar?

Yes, you can, but it requires more patience and attention. Use long wooden matches specifically designed for cigars. Allow the sulfur head to burn off completely before holding the flame to the foot of the cigar. Rotate the cigar as you would with a torch lighter, ensuring an even char. Be prepared to use several matches. Avoid using paper matches, as they can impart unpleasant flavors.

3. Is it bad to use a gas station lighter?

While technically possible, it’s not recommended. Gas station lighters often use fuels that can negatively impact the flavor of the cigar. Butane torches provide a cleaner, hotter flame, resulting in a better-tasting smoke. Think of it like using the right ingredients for a gourmet meal – the quality matters.

4. What does “toasting” the foot mean?

Toasting refers to the initial charring of the cigar’s foot. It’s a crucial step in ensuring an even burn. By gently applying heat to the foot without directly touching the flame, you’re preparing the tobacco to ignite evenly. This prevents one side from burning faster than the other, leading to a more balanced and enjoyable smoking experience.

5. How do I fix an uneven burn?

An uneven burn, often called canoeing or tunneling, can be frustrating. To correct it, use your lighter to gently toast the area that’s lagging behind. You can also try “purging” the cigar by gently blowing through it to encourage the slower-burning side to catch up. If the problem persists, consider using a cigar cutter to even out the burn line.

6. What’s the ideal foot color after lighting?

The ideal foot color is a uniform, glowing red. This indicates that all the tobacco has been properly ignited and is burning evenly. Avoid black spots or areas that are not glowing, as this suggests an incomplete burn.

7. How close should I hold the flame to the cigar?

Avoid direct contact between the flame and the cigar’s foot. Hold the flame approximately half an inch to an inch away. The heat from the flame will be sufficient to toast and light the tobacco. Direct contact can scorch the wrapper and impart an unpleasant taste.

8. How long should it take to light a cigar?

There’s no set time, but patience is key. It should take several minutes to properly toast and light the foot. Rushing the process can lead to an uneven burn and a less enjoyable smoke. Take your time and savor the ritual.

9. What’s the difference between a single-flame and multi-flame torch lighter?

Single-flame torches offer more precision and are ideal for smaller ring gauge cigars or for correcting an uneven burn. Multi-flame torches provide a wider, more powerful flame, making them suitable for larger ring gauge cigars and for faster lighting. The choice depends on personal preference and the size of the cigar.

10. Is it okay to relight a cigar?

Yes, it’s perfectly acceptable to relight a cigar. Before relighting, gently tap off any loose ash. Then, use your lighter to toast the foot again, ensuring an even burn. Be aware that relit cigars can sometimes taste slightly different due to the build-up of tars and oils.

11. What should I do if my cigar goes out?

If your cigar goes out, don’t panic. Simply tap off the ash and relight it as you would a new cigar. It’s helpful to gently blow through the cigar before relighting to clear out any stale smoke.

12. How can I tell if I’ve over-lit my cigar?

Over-lighting can result in a harsh, bitter taste. The foot may appear charred and the wrapper may be scorched. If you suspect you’ve over-lit your cigar, try gently blowing through it to cool it down. If the harshness persists, you may need to let the cigar rest for a few minutes before continuing to smoke. Proper technique is the most effective way to prevent this.

Beyond the Flame: The Ritual and the Reward

Lighting a cigar is more than just setting tobacco on fire. It’s a ritual, a moment of contemplation, and a gateway to a truly enjoyable experience. By understanding the principles of proper lighting and addressing common issues, you can unlock the full potential of your cigars and elevate your smoking enjoyment to a new level. Mastering these techniques transforms the simple act of lighting into a true connoisseur’s pursuit.