Lighting a cigar is not rocket science, but there are a few things to remember to make sure that it is done right.
First, you must choose the method for lighting your cigar. This is a choice between matches and lighters. Either method is acceptable, but be careful because not all matches are equal, and not all lighters will yield the same results.
If you choose to light your Cigar with Matches…
Paper matches are unacceptable to use when lighting a cigar. If you must use matches, use wooden matches. Even then, let the sulfur burn off of the match entirely before letting the flame approach your cigar. This will keep the sulfur flavor from tainting the taste of your expensive cigar. The last thing you want to taste when taking the first draw on your cigar are the chemicals from the match.
If you choose to light your Cigar with a Lighter…
Lighters are the best choice for lighting a cigar. They create a steady, reliable flame, and they are much easier to handle than matches. If you are going to use a lighter however, you must use a high powered butane lighter. Butane is the best choice because it is odorless and tasteless, and therefore it will not alter the flavor of your smoke. When searching for a butane lighter it is important to get a torch lighter which will provide a hot, windproof flame.
Cigar Lighting Technique
When lighting a cigar, be careful not to actually touch the tip of the flame to the cigar, as this will cause the cigar to burn (and not in the way you want), and cause the cigar to not taste good. The idea is too slowly light the cigar so that it is evenly lit. This is accomplished by rotating the cigar as you are lighting it. Place the cigar in your mouth, while using a lighter under the tip of the cigar, rotate the cigar with your other hand, and puffing as you are lighting. This process is sometimes referred to as turning and burning. Remember, this is not a race. Make sure that you take your time and do it right. Once the cigar is evenly lit on all sides, you are on your way to enjoying your cigar.
Lighting a cigar is easy, but in order to properly enjoy your new cigar, it needs to be done right. If you ever forget, just pretend that you are “Goose” from the awesome 80′s flick, Top Gun, and say to yourself, “OK, Mav. Let’s turn and burn.” If a line from Top Gun is not inspiration enough, I don’t know what is.
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