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Cigar Etiquette and Traditions Explained content main image

Cigar Etiquette and Traditions Explained

Back To Learning/How-To

Cigar etiquette holds significant importance for both seasoned aficionados and novices alike. Observing proper cigar etiquette shows respect for the traditions and the craftsmanship involved in cigar making, fostering a sense of camaraderie among fellow enthusiasts. Adhering to these guidelines also enhances the overall smoking experience, ensuring that both the smoker and those around them can enjoy the aroma and flavor without disruption. Ultimately, cigar etiquette is not just about following rules but cultivating an appreciation for the rich heritage of cigars. 

Cutting Your Cigar 

While it is possible to cut a cigar without a proper cutter (i.e. using a knife, your teeth, or your fingernails), we do not advise it. To get the best experience out of your cigar, choose your favorite type of cigar cutter and cut your cigar the right way. Always bring your cutter with you when you plan to smoke cigars so you are not left to resort to the non-ideal methods, and you can also provide a cut for your lesser prepared friends.  

Lighting Your Cigar 

It’s imperative to properly light your cigar so that you can enjoy your smoking experience to the fullest. The quickest and easiest way to do this is to use a butane torch lighter to toast the foot of the cigar until it creates a nice orange glow. You do not want to scorch any part of the wrapper leaf as that can potentially impact the flavor and overall burn of your cigar.  

How Often Should You Puff a Cigar? 

Smoking a cigar is an experience, and one that should not be rushed. Depending on the size of your cigar, it may take shorter or longer to smoke it. General rule of thumb for how often to puff your cigar is one puff every 45 seconds to a minute. Puff too often and you will heat up the cigar too quickly, impacting your smoking experience. Wait too long in between puffs, and your cigar may go out, both causing the inconvenience of needing to relight as well as altering the taste. 

Be Mindful of Your Ash 

While a long ash is impressive, don’t let your ashes go too long. If any slight movement may cause your ashes to fall either on yourself or all over your surroundings, you’ve crossed the line. Regularly tap your ash lightly into an ashtray to enjoy a clean smoking experience.  

Handling the Cigar Band 

A cigar band can be a tremendous keepsake. Whether you collect them to show off to your friends or just want a reminder of what you have enjoyed, properly removing the cigar band will ensure you can have your prize while not affecting your smoke. Do not tear the band off first thing as the glue that secures the band may also be holding the wrapper, and tearing the band off may cause the cigar wrapper to begin unraveling. Wait until you have smoked the cigar down to about an inch or two away from the band. The heat from the lit cigar will soften the glue and allow for easier removal without wrecking the cigar. 

Putting Out Your Cigar 

Cigars are not the same as cigarettes and should not be treated the same way. There is a common misconception that to extinguish a cigar you should mash it until it is out and discard the remnants. Please do not maltreat your premium cigar like that. Instead, when you are finished, place your cigar on the finger of an ashtray or holder and let it naturally go out, then dispose of the leftover. This will avoid letting off a pungent aroma that occurs when a cigar is forcefully smashed. 

How to Handle an Unfinished Cigar 

If you find yourself unable to finish your cigar once you have decided to smoke, all is not lost. You can avoid wasting the rest of the cigar (and your hard-earned money) by saving it for later. Like we stated above, let your cigar go out naturally, cut off the ash, and store it in a Ziploc bag (for no more than a day or two). It may not provide the same smoking experience, but you can relight your cigar and finish it off at another time. Make sure not to put a half-smoked cigar back in your humidor, or really any other place for a long time as the charred cigar smell will overwhelm any storage location. 

Cigar Etiquette and Traditions Explained content main image

Cigar Etiquette and Traditions Explained

Back To Learning/How-To

Cigar etiquette holds significant importance for both seasoned aficionados and novices alike. Observing proper cigar etiquette shows respect for the traditions and the craftsmanship involved in cigar making, fostering a sense of camaraderie among fellow enthusiasts. Adhering to these guidelines also enhances the overall smoking experience, ensuring that both the smoker and those around them can enjoy the aroma and flavor without disruption. Ultimately, cigar etiquette is not just about following rules but cultivating an appreciation for the rich heritage of cigars. 

Cutting Your Cigar 

While it is possible to cut a cigar without a proper cutter (i.e. using a knife, your teeth, or your fingernails), we do not advise it. To get the best experience out of your cigar, choose your favorite type of cigar cutter and cut your cigar the right way. Always bring your cutter with you when you plan to smoke cigars so you are not left to resort to the non-ideal methods, and you can also provide a cut for your lesser prepared friends.  

Lighting Your Cigar 

It’s imperative to properly light your cigar so that you can enjoy your smoking experience to the fullest. The quickest and easiest way to do this is to use a butane torch lighter to toast the foot of the cigar until it creates a nice orange glow. You do not want to scorch any part of the wrapper leaf as that can potentially impact the flavor and overall burn of your cigar.  

How Often Should You Puff a Cigar? 

Smoking a cigar is an experience, and one that should not be rushed. Depending on the size of your cigar, it may take shorter or longer to smoke it. General rule of thumb for how often to puff your cigar is one puff every 45 seconds to a minute. Puff too often and you will heat up the cigar too quickly, impacting your smoking experience. Wait too long in between puffs, and your cigar may go out, both causing the inconvenience of needing to relight as well as altering the taste. 

Be Mindful of Your Ash 

While a long ash is impressive, don’t let your ashes go too long. If any slight movement may cause your ashes to fall either on yourself or all over your surroundings, you’ve crossed the line. Regularly tap your ash lightly into an ashtray to enjoy a clean smoking experience.  

Handling the Cigar Band 

A cigar band can be a tremendous keepsake. Whether you collect them to show off to your friends or just want a reminder of what you have enjoyed, properly removing the cigar band will ensure you can have your prize while not affecting your smoke. Do not tear the band off first thing as the glue that secures the band may also be holding the wrapper, and tearing the band off may cause the cigar wrapper to begin unraveling. Wait until you have smoked the cigar down to about an inch or two away from the band. The heat from the lit cigar will soften the glue and allow for easier removal without wrecking the cigar. 

Putting Out Your Cigar 

Cigars are not the same as cigarettes and should not be treated the same way. There is a common misconception that to extinguish a cigar you should mash it until it is out and discard the remnants. Please do not maltreat your premium cigar like that. Instead, when you are finished, place your cigar on the finger of an ashtray or holder and let it naturally go out, then dispose of the leftover. This will avoid letting off a pungent aroma that occurs when a cigar is forcefully smashed. 

How to Handle an Unfinished Cigar 

If you find yourself unable to finish your cigar once you have decided to smoke, all is not lost. You can avoid wasting the rest of the cigar (and your hard-earned money) by saving it for later. Like we stated above, let your cigar go out naturally, cut off the ash, and store it in a Ziploc bag (for no more than a day or two). It may not provide the same smoking experience, but you can relight your cigar and finish it off at another time. Make sure not to put a half-smoked cigar back in your humidor, or really any other place for a long time as the charred cigar smell will overwhelm any storage location.