Which Side of the Cigar Do You Smoke? The Definitive Guide

You smoke the lit end, my friend. It’s not rocket science, but the ritual and nuances surrounding cigar smoking can sometimes make it seem more complicated than it is. This guide will delve into not only the obvious but also the subtle aspects of cigar smoking, ensuring you enjoy every puff.

Understanding the Anatomy of a Cigar

Before we dive deeper, let’s familiarize ourselves with the key components of a cigar. This knowledge is crucial to understanding why the lit end is, undeniably, the only end you should be smoking.

The Head (Cap)

The head of the cigar is the closed end, the part you put in your mouth. It’s sealed with a cap, a small piece of tobacco leaf that prevents the wrapper from unraveling. Cutting or punching the head is essential for drawing smoke through the cigar.

The Body (Barrel)

The body of the cigar, also referred to as the barrel, constitutes the majority of the cigar’s length. It consists of the filler, binder, and wrapper, all working together to deliver the desired flavor profile.

The Foot

The foot of the cigar is the open end, the one you light. It’s the business end, where combustion happens, transforming the meticulously crafted blend of tobacco into the aromatic smoke we crave.

The Lighting Process: The Key to Proper Enjoyment

Lighting the cigar correctly is paramount to a pleasurable experience. A poorly lit cigar will burn unevenly, affecting the flavor and draw.

Toasting the Foot

Before applying direct flame, toast the foot of the cigar. Hold the foot just above the flame (butane torch recommended) and rotate it to evenly char the tobacco. This prepares the cigar for a controlled and consistent burn.

Applying the Flame

Once the foot is toasted, apply the flame directly to ignite the tobacco. Take gentle puffs while rotating the cigar to ensure an even burn across the entire surface of the foot. You’re aiming for a glowing ember, not a roaring inferno.

Achieving an Even Burn

Inspect the burn line to ensure it’s even. An uneven burn can be corrected by gently touching up the lagging areas with the flame. Patience is key here; slow and steady wins the race.

Why the Foot, Not the Head?

Let’s reiterate this point for the sake of absolute clarity. The foot of the cigar is designed and intended to be lit. The head is designed to be smoked from. Lighting the head would render the cigar virtually un-smokable, and it would likely fall apart.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some frequently asked questions related to cigar smoking, designed to expand your knowledge and enhance your enjoyment.

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

There are several types of cigar cutters: guillotine cutters (single or double blade), punch cutters, and V-cutters. The “best” depends on personal preference and cigar size. Guillotine cutters are versatile, while punch cutters are good for smaller ring gauges. V-cutters offer a different draw and smoking experience. The key is to cut cleanly, removing enough of the cap to allow for a comfortable draw without damaging the cigar’s structure.

2. How do I know if I’ve cut the cigar too much?

If you’ve cut too far into the cap, the wrapper can unravel. This can lead to an uneven burn and a messy smoking experience. If this happens, you can try to moisten the wrapper with saliva and gently press it back into place, but the best solution is prevention.

3. What’s the proper way to hold a cigar?

Hold the cigar between your thumb and forefinger, towards the middle or slightly closer to the band. Avoid squeezing the cigar too tightly, as this can impede the draw. The goal is comfort and control.

4. How often should I puff on my cigar?

Puffing frequency depends on the cigar and your personal preference. Generally, a puff every minute or two is sufficient to keep the cigar lit and producing flavorful smoke. Avoid puffing too rapidly, as this can overheat the cigar and lead to a bitter taste.

5. Is it okay to relight a cigar?

Yes, it’s perfectly acceptable to relight a cigar if it goes out. Before relighting, gently purge the stale smoke from the cigar by blowing through it. Then, relight the foot as you would when initially lighting the cigar.

6. How do I purge a cigar?

To purge a cigar, gently blow through the cigar from the lit end. This removes any stale or bitter smoke that may have accumulated. Purging can improve the flavor and draw of the cigar.

7. What’s the point of the cigar band?

The cigar band serves several purposes. It identifies the brand and origin of the cigar. It also helps to protect the wrapper from damage. You can remove the band if you wish, but it’s generally recommended to wait until the cigar has warmed up slightly to avoid tearing the wrapper.

8. Should I remove the cigar band before smoking?

There’s no right or wrong answer. Some people prefer to remove the band before lighting, while others wait until the cigar has warmed up to avoid damaging the wrapper. Ultimately, it’s a matter of personal preference.

9. How long does a cigar typically last?

The duration of a cigar depends on its size, ring gauge, and how frequently you puff. A smaller cigar might last 30-45 minutes, while a larger cigar can easily burn for an hour or more.

10. What’s the best way to ash a cigar?

Gently tap the cigar against an ashtray to remove the ash. Avoid flicking or banging the cigar, as this can damage the wrapper and affect the burn. Aim for a clean and controlled ash.

11. Where should I store my cigars?

Store your cigars in a humidor to maintain the ideal humidity level (around 70%). This prevents the cigars from drying out and losing their flavor. If you don’t have a humidor, you can use a zip-lock bag with a humidity pack as a temporary solution.

12. How do I know when a cigar is finished?

A cigar is finished when it becomes too short to comfortably hold, or when the flavor becomes harsh or bitter. There’s no need to smoke every last bit; it’s better to end on a good note than to force yourself to finish a cigar that’s no longer enjoyable.