The 1st step is selecting the right cigars to "observe" with. You ought to begin by selecting several completely different single cigars at your native tobacconist. Do not get a box of cigars till you've got sampled a few singles initial, and don't be afraid to raise the owner or manager for a recommendation.
Select Delicate Cigars
Delicate cigars are recommended for beginners since a lot of flavored cigars can most likely style too sturdy (or plain bad) to a new smoker. Mild cigars are the smallest amount expensive, so you will not have to stress about ruining a rich cigar by lighting it, or by cutting an excessive amount of off the closed end.
Inspect the Cigar
Once you have got determined which cigar to get, then squeeze the cigar to work out if there are any arduous or soft spots. You do not wish to take a chance on buying a cigar with an unhealthy draw, or worse nonetheless, one that's plugged and not smokeable. (Tip: Reputable tobacconists can replace a plugged cigar.) Additionally, examine the wrapper for cracks or discolorations.
Defend and Smoke
If you do not yet own a humidor, do not get more cigars than you can smoke inside many days, and build positive to leave them in their cellophane packaging (if applicable) until you're ready to smoke. Never leave an unprotected cigar exposed to the elements, as it will dry out. You can store cigars during a Tupperware or similar container.
How to cut a Cigar
The closed end (or head) of a cigar is the end that you place into your mouth, but you have got to chop it, 1st. When a cigar is hand rolled, a cap is placed on the top of the cigar to stay it from unraveling and drying out. A cigar should not be cut until you're prepared to smoke. There are 3 styles of cuts, and several varieties of cutters, but the straight cut made with a guillotine cutter is the most common. Hold the cigar with one hand and also the guillotine with the opposite, then insert the top of the cigar into the guillotine and cut into the cap, about 1/16 to one/8 of an in. down. If the top of the cigar is formed like a cone, then cut into the cone, but not quite at the widest half. In any case, do not cut into the body of the cigar. That would cause the wrapper to unravel, and ruin your smoking experience.
When You Don't Have a Cigar Cutter
The most primitive manner of cutting the head of a cigar with completely no tools is to bite it with your teeth. This should be your last resort, and should never be done with an upscale premium cigar because the cigar is much more valuable than a basic cutter. Biting a cigar, or otherwise cutting it, will cause the wrapper to unravel, and could even harm the binder and filler tobacco within. ?Use a pointy knife and a cutting board, or a try of sharp scissors instead. You'll be able to additionally use a pen or pencil to punch a hole within the cap. But, if the cigar prices more than $5, do not cut it till you have a cigar cutter. It will be worth the wait.
How to Light-weight a Cigar
After being cut, the cigar is now ready for lighting. Butane lighters or wooden matches are recommended. It's important not to introduce chemicals or other flavors or substances into the cigar as it is being lit (never use a scented candle). There are many sorts of lighters on the market, but butane torch lighters work the best outdoors, especially on a breezy day.
Puff and Rotate
Light the lighter with one hand, then grip your cigar around the band (or about an inch or two from the head) using your thumb, index finger, middle finger, and ring finger (if necessary), and place in your mouth. Position the end of your cigar higher than the prime of the flame, being careful not to let the cigar touch the flame. Begin puffing on the cigar, then begin to rotate the cigar while continuing to puff. Relying on the dimensions of the cigar, you'll have to stay puffing whereas rotating the open finish above the flame for at least 10 to 20 seconds (longer) till the tobacco around the outer rim begins to glow, and also the smoke starts to draw.
How to Smoke and Relish Your Cigar
Now that your cigar is all fired up, it's time to smoke and enjoy it. Continue to puff and rotate about every 30 to 60 seconds. Don't inhale the smoke, style it in your mouth and blow it out. If you smoke a cigar too quick, it can burn hot and ruin the flavor. If you smoke too slow, it will venture out, and you'll have to keep relighting. Since most hand-rolled cigars are made with long filler, you'll not need to flick the ashes until they are at least 1/2 to at least one in. long, depending on the cigar (and any wind conditions, if you're outdoors). You can smoke a cigar as far down as you would like, relying on the taste.
Drinks to With a Cigar Are Important
Different than the style and draw of the cigar itself, the drink chosen to with a cigar is the second most crucial issue that will affect your enjoyment of the smoking experience. If comparing completely different cigars, always build positive to own an identical drink. Many drinks are compatible with delicate cigars, but as you progress up to medium and full flavored cigars, it's essential to decide on a drink that will not be overpowered by the flavor of the cigar. Coffee drinks, port, scotch, brandy, and most drinks made with Kahlua can go with any cigar.
