Picture this: It’s your first visit to a cigar lounge, and you’re eager to light up with the seasoned aficionados. You’re confident, ready to savor every puff, but then you notice the sideways glances and raised eyebrows. What went wrong?
Fear not, my friend. Let’s talk about the cigar etiquette that’ll help you blend in like a pro and avoid those rookie mistakes. Trust me, I've been there—like the time I used a pocket knife to cut my cigar and ended up with a mess that looked more like confetti than a clean cut. Here’s what you need to know to avoid such blunders.
Use a Cutter (Leave Your Teeth Out of It)
When it comes to cutting your cigar, the guillotine cutter is your best friend. It’s straightforward and gets the job done with a clean cut. If you want to get fancy, you can try a V cut or a punch, but whatever you do, leave your teeth out of it. Nothing says “newbie” like gnawing on the end of a cigar at the lounge.
It’s not just about looks—using your teeth can ruin the cigar’s structure and your experience. Plus, it’s a surefire way to make a mess and waste a good cigar. So, bring a proper cigar cutter or ask the lounge staff for one. They’re usually happy to help, and you’ll save yourself from those disapproving glances.
Light It Right (Patience, Grasshopper)
Lighting a cigar is an art. Don’t rush it like you’re starting a campfire. Patience is key here. Hold your cigar at a slight angle above the flame of a butane torch, match, or cedar spill. Don’t stick it directly into the flame—that’s a rookie move. Rotate the cigar slowly to toast the foot evenly, ensuring a smooth and even burn.
Take your time and enjoy the ritual; it’s part of the experience. Once it’s nicely toasted, bring it to your mouth and draw gently while continuing to rotate. Be mindful not to inhale the smoke, as cigars are meant to be savored, not inhaled. This technique ensures the whole foot is lit evenly and gives you a great start to your smoke.
Keep Your Tongue to Yourself
Here’s a tip: don’t lick your cigar. I know, it sounds bizarre, but some folks do it thinking it’ll help with the lighting or flavor. Spoiler alert: it doesn’t. Plus, it’s not the most appealing thing to watch. Just keep your cigar dry and your tongue to yourself. Your fellow lounge-goers will appreciate it, and your cigar will taste just as good—if not better. And for the love of all fine cigars, please don't chew them either.
Let Your Cigar Die with Dignity
It’s surprising how often a newbie doesn’t know how to put out a cigar. Unlike cigarettes, cigars aren’t meant to be stubbed out. When you’re done, simply let your cigar rest in the ashtray and go out on its own. This allows it to die with dignity and prevents that harsh, lingering odor that comes from stubbing it out. Plus, it’s just good manners and shows respect for the craft of cigar making.
Ash With Style
Let the ash build up to about an inch before gently tapping it off. This not only looks cooler but also helps in maintaining a steady burn. Constantly tapping off the ash can make the cigar burn hotter and faster, ruining the experience. So, embrace the ash and let it accumulate a bit before discarding it. In addition, don’t wait too long to ash, or else you may end up making quite a mess of your clothes. A gentle tap on your cigar over the nice ceramic ashtray will do the trick here.
Don't Dip Your Cigar in Whiskey (Or Any Other Drink)
Sure, you might’ve seen it in old movies—someone dipping their cigar in whiskey for that extra flavor kick. While it might look cool, it’s a definite no-no in the lounge. Not only does it mess with the cigar’s intended flavors, but it can also make the cigar soggy and difficult to smoke. Instead, enjoy your whiskey in a glass and your cigar in your hand. Let each complement the other naturally.
Half-Smoked Cigars Need Special Treatment
So, you couldn’t finish your cigar, and you’re wondering what to do with it. Whatever you do, don’t put a half-smoked cigar back in your pristine humidor, your car’s glove box, or (heaven forbid) your wife’s purse. The lingering smell is something you won’t get rid of easily. Instead, pop it into a Ziploc bag and smoke it within the next day or two. This keeps the flavors relatively intact and spares your other cigars from the stale, smoky aroma.
Leave the Band On (Until the Very End)
Cigar bands can be quite the conversation starters, and they’re there for a reason. Don’t be in a rush to remove it. Wait until you’ve smoked down to about an inch or two left. By then, the heat from the cigar will have loosened the adhesive, making it easier to remove without tearing the wrapper. Plus, keeping the band on helps you remember what you were smoking in case you don’t finish it in one go. It’s a win-win.
Support Your Local Lounge
When you’re at a cigar lounge, show some love by buying your cigars there. Bringing in a cigar from their competitor is a faux pas. Lounges curate their selections carefully, often featuring unique or high-quality cigars you won’t find elsewhere. By purchasing in-house, you support the business and also get to explore new and interesting cigars. Once again, it’s a win for everyone.
Wrap-Up Wisdom
Learning cigar etiquette might seem like a lot, but it’s all about respect—respect for the cigars, the lounge, and your fellow smokers. Follow these dos and don’ts, and you’ll blend in at the lounge in no time. Remember, it’s all part of the journey in becoming a true cigar aficionado. So, light up, relax, and enjoy the experience.
