The Ultimate Guide: How to Find the Perfect Cigar, Light It Properly, and Enjoy It in Style
Finding a good cigar and smoking it properly is an art in itself. Those who enjoy cigars know that it's not just about the tobacco, but also about the right technique and suitable environment. In our guide, you'll learn how to choose the perfect cigar, light it expertly, and what you should definitely avoid.
1. Finding the Right Cigar
Not every cigar is suitable for every connoisseur. Here are some tips on what to look for:
Format and Size: Beginners should start with smaller formats such as a Corona or Robusto. They are easier to smoke than a Churchill or Double Toro.
Wrapper: The wrapper significantly influences the taste. Dark wrappers (Maduro) are often sweeter and more intense, while lighter ones (Connecticut) are milder.
Origin and Blend: Cigars from Cuba, Nicaragua, or the Dominican Republic have different flavor profiles. Our entire selection of cigars comes from the Dominican Republic.
Storage: Make sure the cigar has been stored correctly - ideally in a humidor at 65–70% humidity.
We carry a selection of Rising humidors and will be happy to advise you personally. If you're on the go, our travel humidors are the perfect companion - compact, stylish, and functional.
2. Cutting the Cigar Correctly
The perfect cut is crucial for an enjoyable smoking experience:
Guillotine Cutter: The classic - ideal for a clean mouthpiece.
V-Cut: Creates a deeper draw, ideal for cigars with a large ring gauge.
Punch Cutter: Leaves a small hole and reduces the risk of tobacco entering the mouth.
A sloppy cut can cause the cigar to fray or burn unevenly.
No Rising Cutter is available yet - but we are already working on a handmade model. With a little patience, you'll find it in our online shop soon.
3. Lighting the Cigar Correctly
Lighting a cigar should be done with patience:
Use a gas lighter or cedar spills: Petrol lighters or candles negatively affect the taste.
Gently rotate the cigar over the flame: Hold the cigar over the flame and slowly rotate it until the tip glows evenly.
Gently blow on the embers: This distributes the heat evenly and keeps the draw consistent.
4. Enjoying the Cigar - But Correctly
Here are some basic rules to experience the full flavor:
Smoke slowly: A cigar should not be smoked like a cigarette. Take gentle puffs every 30-60 seconds.
Do not inhale: Cigar smoke is enjoyed in the mouth, not drawn into the lungs.
Do not extinguish: A cigar should go out on its own. Stubbing it out in an ashtray is considered a faux pas.
Don't tap off the ash too early: An ash column of 1-2 cm stabilizes the temperature and improves the draw. Are you still looking for an ashtray with character and style? Then take a look at our selection.
5. No-Gos When Smoking Cigars
Some mistakes should be avoided to fully enjoy the experience:
Smoking the cigar too quickly: It gets too hot and tastes bitter.
Combining with unsuitable drinks: Overly sweet or sparkling drinks can mask the flavor.
Letting the cigar go out after lighting and relighting it later: This makes it taste unpleasantly harsh.
Storing cigars in plastic: Without proper humidity, the cigar dries out and loses its aroma.
Conclusion
Cigar smoking is more than just a luxury - it's a ritual. Those who choose the right cigar, light it with patience, and enjoy it with respect will experience a unique smoking experience.
Do you have questions or are you looking for a personal recommendation? Feel free to contact us.