Apart from correct storage, lighting a cigar is the most crucial factor determining whether smoking is enjoyable or frustrating. It is not about observing cigar etiquette or what is stylish. Instead, it is about lighting the cigar so its aromas can develop optimally.
The Basics
When lighting a cigar, never suck the flame into the cigar by drawing on it. This causes uneven burning and leads to a lopsided burn. Before taking the first draw, ensure the burning end glows evenly across the entire diameter of the cigar. This process takes time, usually one to two minutes. Blow on the burning end occasionally and keep lighting it until the center of the cigar glows evenly with no dark spots. Only then will the various types of tobacco burn evenly, allowing the flavors to develop as they should from the first puff. Patience is essential here.
Matches: A Traditional Method
When using matches, always allow the sulfur to burn off first. This prevents the unpleasant sulfur odor from affecting the cigar’s aroma.
Lighting Equipment
Gasoline Lighters and Candles: Due to their dominant foreign aromas and deposits, gasoline lighters and candles are completely unsuitable for lighting cigars.
Long Matches: Long matches are acceptable, but ensure the sulfur head is completely burned off first. The soot from burning wood can create an unsightly, sooty edge at the burning end.
Cedar Spills (Fidibus): While stylish, cedar spills produce soot and foreign aromas, making them unsuitable despite their use in upscale hospitality venues.
Butane Lighters: The classic butane lighter, with its odorless flame, is a good choice. However, prolonged use can cause the lighter to become too hot to handle.
Jet Flame Lighters: Jet flame lighters, which can have one, two, or even three flame jets, are probably the best choice. They concentrate the heat on one point, allowing precise lighting of the cigar in a relatively short time. However, note the extremely high flame temperature of nearly 1300Β°C (2372Β°F). The visible flame should never touch the cigar. Ensure a minimum distance of 3 to 4 centimeters (1 to 1.5 inches) from the end of the visible blue flame.
Filament Cigar Lighters: Though now outdated, old filament cigar lighters work similarly to classic car cigarette lighters. Holding the filament directly to the cigar and drawing on it ensures a wonderful, even burn without an open flame.
By understanding and using the right lighting techniques and equipment, you can enhance your cigar smoking experience, ensuring that the flavors and aromas develop perfectly from the first puff.
