For every cigar enthusiast, there comes a time when you can’t finish a cigar in one sitting, or it goes out unexpectedly. Don’t worry, it happens to the best of us! Relighting a cigar is an art, and doing it correctly can save your smoking experience. Here’s how to relight a cigar like a pro.
1. Assess the Cigar’s Condition
First, take a look at your cigar. If it’s just gone out, it’s a simple relight. But if it’s been out for a while, check for any hard or overly moist spots. A cigar sitting for too long (several hours or more) might not provide the best experience upon relighting due to the stale taste.
2. Clean Up Before Relighting
Before you relight, gently tap off any loose ash. Roll the cigar gently over an ashtray if the ash is clinging on. Avoid knocking it, as this can damage the wrapper. If there’s a long, stale ash, carefully remove it to expose fresh tobacco for a better relighting experience.
3. Preheat the Foot Gently
This step is crucial. Hold the cigar at a 45-degree angle and close it to your flame source (preferably a butane lighter or a wooden match). Wait to let the flame touch the cigar. You aim to dry out excess moisture and prep the tobacco for a proper relight. This should take about 30 seconds.
4. Apply the flame Carefully
Now, lightly touch the flame to the Foot of the cigar, rotating it slowly to ensure an even burn. Your goal here is to reignite the tobacco without overheating it. Patience is key – if you rush this step, you risk a bitter taste.
5. Take Gentle Puffs
Once you see a glow, start taking gentle puffs. Don’t inhale the smoke; draw it into your mouth. If the cigar doesn’t light evenly, you can use your lighter to touch up the unlit areas carefully. Remember, less is more when it comes to applying heat.
6. Let the Cigar Rest
After relighting, give your cigar a minute or two to rest. This stabilizes the newly lit tobacco and ensures a smoother, more enjoyable smoke.
7. Enjoy Your Cigar
Now that your cigar is working correctly, take your time to enjoy it. Relighting shouldn’t significantly affect the flavor if done correctly. Remember, smoking a cigar is about relaxation and pleasure.
8. Know When to Say Goodbye
Sometimes, a cigar doesn’t taste right after relighting, especially if it’s been out too long. In such cases, it’s okay to let it go. The beauty of cigars lies in the experience, not just finishing them.
Conclusion:
Relighting a cigar is a handy skill for any aficionado. With these tips, you can save your smoke and enjoy your cigar even after a pause. Remember, the key to a good relight is patience and gentle handling. So the next time your cigar goes out, don’t fret – relight and enjoy the journey.
