Properly Lighting a Cigar

I'm in my mid-20's and it seems that most members of my generation rarely, if ever, take time to enjoy a cigar.  I often bring a stash of cigars to important events just to discover that most of the celebrants are interested in enjoying a smoke, but are relatively inept at lighting and maintaining their cigar.  This generation is losing touch with the ability to stop and feel comfortable doing so.  In a Cigar Aficionado interview a well known race car driver commented that he liked cigars, because he couldn't "outrun" them.  An occasional cigar is just the medicine for our generation.  (the following advice is for anyone new to cigars, not just 20 somethings)


Sulphurless Matches, Matchbook, Cedar Paper, Scissor Cutters, Butane Lighter, Cigar, and Bourbon

Matches -  Most matches have sulphur which was never meant to be inhaled and can destroy the enjoyment of a good cigar.  If you have matches which are sulphurless, then you're good to go.  If you use regular matches, it is best to light cedar paper, then light the cigar with the cedar paper.  I recommend folding the cedar paper over once and using a narrower strip, unless, of course, you want an unruly flame and a ruined cigar wrapper.  Cedar paper comes with some cigars, but can usually be found in ample supply at cigar stores.


Butane Lighters - This is by far my preferred tool for lighting cigars.  Butane does not cause any off-flavors and supports a nearly wind-proof flame.  As it is a focused, intense flame, be careful to avoid pointing the flame into the cigar, accidentally scorching the wrapper, or singeing your hat and/or eyebrows.  If you own a butane lighter, you will need to purchase a butane refill can.  If you have any question as to how to refill the butane ask the guy (or gal) behind the counter.


Cigar Cutters - Make sure any cutter you buy is a double-blade cutter.  Single blade cutters are only useful for smashing your cigar.  I have found it convenient to have several inexpensive scissor cutters as they work rather well and I can keep one in the car, one in the house, and one where my family lives for when I visit.


Cutting            Although it is best to cut your cigar only once, until you're familiar with how a particular brand of cigar is built and draws, it is best to err on the side of caution.  You can cut more if the draw's too tight.  Set the blades on the cap (I aim for half way on most cigars, but that's my preference) and make a decisive, clean cut.

Toasting             I prefer to lightly toast the cigar to ensure it lights more evenly.  Don't overdo this, though, as it can affect the initial flavor.  Toasting is not necessary, but I find it to be effective.



Lighting              While applying your chosen flame to the cigar, perform small, quick, puffs to draw the flame into the cigar.  [Don't Inhale!!]  Make sure to either rotate the cigar or the flame in order to evenly light the cigar.

If you cut it appropriately, it's well-constructed, you draw on it at a moderate pace, and you keep the tip dry, you are ready for the final step...

Enjoy

Don't look down at a cigar while someone takes a picture as you
will look stoned.  Tobacco's enough for me.