Getting into the world of cigars can be an exciting and enjoyable journey. However, like any hobby, there are some pitfalls that beginners often fall into. Whether you’re looking to relax with a premium smoke or impress others at an event, avoiding these common mistakes can enhance your experience and help you get the most out of your cigar journey. Here’s a guide to help beginners confidently navigate the cigar world and avoid common mistakes.
1. Choosing the Wrong Cigar Size and Strength
One of the most common mistakes beginners make is choosing a cigar that’s either too strong or too large. While it might be tempting to go for a big, bold cigar, it’s essential to start with something more manageable. Larger cigars often burn longer, and stronger cigars can overwhelm new smokers with their robust flavors and nicotine content.
Pro Tip: Start with a mild to medium-strength cigar, like a Connecticut wrapper, which tends to be smoother and more approachable for new smokers. Opt for a smaller size, such as a Robusto or Corona to ease into the experience.
2. Inhaling Cigar Smoke
Unlike cigarettes, cigar smoke is not meant to be inhaled. Cigars are meant to be savored for their flavors and aromas. Inhaling cigar smoke can lead to a harsh experience, causing discomfort or dizziness, especially for beginners.
Pro Tip: Focus on taking slow draws and allowing the smoke to linger in your mouth to fully enjoy the complex flavors without inhaling.
3. Cutting the Cigar Incorrectly
Another mistake often made by beginners is cutting the cigar too much. When you cut too deep into the cap, it can unravel, ruining the smoking experience. On the flip side, not cutting enough can restrict airflow and make it difficult to draw smoke.
Pro Tip: Use a sharp cigar cutter and aim to cut just above the shoulder of the cigar, about 1/8th of an inch from the tip. This ensures a clean cut and optimal airflow. Don’t be afraid to ask a tobacconist or fellow cigar smoker for help.
4. Lighting the Cigar Incorrectly
Many new cigar smokers rush through the lighting process, resulting in an uneven burn or causing the cigar to overheat. Cigars require a gentle approach when being lit to ensure an even burn, which enhances the smoking experience.
Pro Tip: Use a butane lighter or wooden matches for a clean, flavor-neutral light. Toast the foot of the cigar first, rotating it slowly above the flame without letting the cigar touch the flame. Once it’s evenly toasted, draw gently to ignite it.
5. Puffing Too Quickly
Puffing too frequently can cause a cigar to overheat, leading to harsh flavors and a less enjoyable experience. Cigars are meant to be enjoyed slowly, allowing the tobacco to burn coolly and evenly.
Pro Tip: Take a puff every 30 seconds to a minute to keep the cigar at an optimal temperature. This will allow you to enjoy the full range of flavors while maintaining a smooth burn.
6. Not Storing Cigars Properly
Improper storage can ruin the quality of your cigars. Cigars need to be kept at a specific humidity level, typically around 65-72%. Storing cigars outside of a humidor can cause them to dry out or become too moist, both of which can negatively impact their flavor and burn.
Pro Tip: Invest in a humidor to properly store your cigars. A humidor helps maintain the ideal humidity levels to keep your cigars fresh and ready to smoke. If you don’t have a humidor yet, a temporary fix is to store them in a resealable plastic bag with a humidification pack.
7. Smoking the Cigar to the Very End
While it might seem like a waste to leave part of the cigar unsmoked, smoking a cigar down to the nub can result in bitter and unpleasant flavors, most of the enjoyment comes from the first two-thirds of the cigar.
Pro Tip: It’s perfectly fine to stop smoking when the cigar becomes too hot or when the flavors turn bitter. Enjoying a cigar is all about pleasure, not forcing it to the very end.
8. Not Pairing the Right Drink with Your Cigar
Many beginners overlook the importance of pairing the right beverage with their cigar. The wrong drink can overpower the cigar’s flavors or clash with its notes.
Pro Tip: Pair lighter cigars with coffee, tea, or light rum, and save the bold cigars for pairing with whiskey, bourbon, or a robust red wine. Experiment to find the pairing that enhances your overall experience.
9. Expecting to Like Every Cigar
Cigars come in a wide variety of flavors, strengths, and styles. Some cigars may not suit your palate right away, and that’s completely normal. A common mistake for beginners is trying one cigar and assuming they don’t like cigars at all.
Pro Tip: Try different cigars in terms of strength, wrapper, and size to find what suits your preferences. Cigar lounges and events are great places to sample various types of cigars and get recommendations from more experienced smokers.
10. Neglecting to Ask for Help
There’s no shame in being a beginner, but many novices feel intimidated when stepping into a cigar shop or lounge. Not asking for advice can lead to choosing the wrong cigars or accessories.
Pro Tip: Engage with the staff at your local cigar lounge or shop. Most tobacconists are happy to help beginners find the right cigars and answer any questions about storage, cutting, and lighting. The cigar community is known for being welcoming and helpful.
Conclusion
Getting into cigars can be a rewarding experience if you avoid these common mistakes. By taking your time to choose the right cigar, lighting it properly, and savoring the experience, you’ll find yourself enjoying the richness of cigar culture in no time. Remember, cigar smoking is about relaxation and pleasure—there’s no need to rush or feel pressured. Enjoy the journey!
By following these tips and avoiding these common beginner mistakes, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a knowledgeable and confident cigar smoker.
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