Cigar etiquette is an art, reflecting style and sophistication. Our guide offers insights into the finer points of cigar smoking, ensuring you're never "caught out."
Understanding the Ritual:
- Warming Up: Begin by gently warming the foot of your cigar, a subtle nod to tradition.
- Band Removal: Post-lighting, carefully remove the band. This step varies among smokers; observe and follow suit in company.
- Pace Yourself: Savor each puff, ideally once a minute, making smoking a relaxing, unhurried experience.
Holding Your Cigar:
- A cigar should be held between your index finger and thumb, distinguishing a cigar aficionado from a beginner. This age-old tradition separates cigar enthusiasts from cigarette smokers.
End with Elegance:
- Allow your cigar to extinguish naturally. Discard it discreetly and promptly, maintaining a neat environment.
Etiquette Between Cigars:
- A 15-minute gap between cigars is recommended to avoid overindulgence.
What Not to Do:
- Avoid using a knife to cut your cigar or placing the cigar directly in the flame. Light it by rotating it above the lighter.
- Light your own cigar to appreciate the craftsmanship.
- Refrain from relighting a cigar if it's less than a quarter left, as it alters the flavor.
- Avoid clenching the cigar in your teeth or using a holder; cigars are a sensory experience, best held between fingers.
- Don't dip cigars in alcohol, as it changes their unique flavor.
- Reserve cigar smoking for relaxing moments, not during work or stress.
In Conclusion: While these guidelines date back to 1967, their relevance today underscores the timeless nature of cigar smoking. Remember, your cigar experience is personal – enjoy it in a way that suits you best.