Cigar enjoyment is an art form in and of itself. When enjoyed properly, the experience can and has been described as orgasmic. As a continuation in this series we touch on recommended manner of enjoying a cigar.
Cigars are designed/constructed for enjoyment and pleasure. It is to be treated as you would an aged scotch as opposed to a beer. While imbibing either will produce similar results; the manner and the method are diametrically opposed!
As with that bottle of Glen Fiddich, the handling and care directly affect the libation. In other words on a normal occasion one wouldn’t ‘slam’ a quality scotch; don’t ‘slam’ the cigar – take your time; you are in for the long haul with this.
It cannot be overstated: one of many distinct differences between a cigar and cigarette is the quality and quantity of tobacco; do not inhale. Many a brave soul has inhaled – repeatedly- and paid the price. Nausea and other adverse affects will surely follow.
With that out of the way, see here for a brief informational about cutting a cigar . Now that your cigar is cut, lets proceed.
As you would likely not drink that fine aged scotch out on the golf course on a windy day; neither should you smoke a quality cigar in that environment. In the Charleston and surrounding areas there are a plethora of environs suited for enjoying a cigar. However, absent a cigar friendly environment there is always your own back porch.
Firin’ it up: as simplistic a task as it may seem, it is far from that. First, recommend lighting through the use of a wooden match referred to as a ‘spill’. Absent a spill, a lighter will do. Note: if you use a match ensure that the sulphur is burnt out! Rather than your grandfathers’ zippo, butane is recommended for the cleaner burn. Regardless of the source, the flame should never come in direct contact with the cigar as it may adversely affect the overall smoke. Rather than burning the end to produce a chemical reaction, consider it as ‘toasting’ the foot. The process may take upwards of one minute but the effort is worth the wait.
Now that your cigar is lit the enjoyment begins in earnest. Smoking or ‘puffing’ your cigar should be considered ‘sipping’. In other words, don’t draw on the cigar with all your might; rather, ‘sip’ it. Let the smoke fill your mouth to a comfortable level. Once the smoke has reached your mouth let it linger; put your cigar down. Allow the smoke to permeate your palette then slowly allow it to escape. While that smoke visits the palette invite it to linger. During this time you may take note of any particular flavors and aroma, contemplate life, discover a new universe, or just quietly sort your thoughts.
In between puffs of your cigar, take a moment to enjoy your libation and your company. No company? Enjoy your libation. The time between puffs will allow for your cigar to cool. Cooling is important as a 'hot' smoke can and will adversely affect the taste and overall experience.
Remember: slow and steady wins the race. Smoking a cigar can also be considered a marathon as opposed to a 5K.
Smoke ‘em if ya got ‘em.
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