Everyone starts as a beginner when it comes to smoking cigars. It’s a fun hobby that many people enjoy and cherish for the rest of their lives. But sometimes, mistakes are easy, especially when you’re new at something. Cigar smoking is no different. Every newbie makes mistakes – but they’re easily avoidable with little knowledge. Here are some common mistakes that newbie cigar smokers make and how to avoid them.
1. Cigars don’t have to be expensive
Sure, top-quality cigars can cost hundreds of dollars each, but you don’t have to spend a lot of money to enjoy a great cigar. Many affordable cigars offer tons of flavor and smoking satisfaction, so don’t be afraid to try one that is well within your price range.
You can spend just a few bucks or less on a cigar, providing you with just as much enjoyment and flavor. But, of course, it should be noted that high-quality cigars are usually more expensive because they use better tobaccos and more experienced cigar rollers.
2. Not checking the humidity and temperature
You must keep your cigars stored at the right humidity and temperature to maintain flavor and quality. Cigars should be kept in a humidor that maintains 50-70% humidity and a temperature between 65-70 degrees Fahrenheit. If they aren’t stored in this environment, their flavor can deteriorate, and they may even develop mold.
To keep your cigars in the best condition possible, follow these tips:
-Always keep them in a humidor
-Monitor the humidity and temperature levels regularly
-Avoid storing your cigars near heat sources, such as vents, radiators, etc.
3. Not letting your cigar breathe before smoking
One of the best ways to ensure a great flavor and experience when smoking a cigar is by giving it time to breathe before you light it. Like any other type of food or drink, cigars need some time to “open up” to release their full flavor.
Remove the cellophane wrapper and cut the cigar’s cap to give your cigar some time to breathe. You can either use a cigar cutter or carefully remove it with your fingers. Then, place the cigar into your humidor for at least 30 minutes to an hour before you light it. This time will allow the tobacco to release its full flavor, ensuring a more enjoyable smoking experience.
4. Not cutting your cigar properly
When it comes to smoking cigars, how you cut the cap is just as important as how you light it. If you don’t do it right, the cigar may not draw well and could even become damaged.
To cut a cigar properly, you should use a sharp, clean cutter specifically designed for cigars. These have circular blades that cut near the head of the cigar to preserve as much tobacco as possible. You should also angle your cutter to remove only a small amount of tobacco.
5. Ignoring the flavor notes of a cigar
When smoking a cigar, paying attention to the flavors you’re experiencing is essential. This can help you better appreciate and understand your cigar and determine how long it will last.
Some of the most common flavors that you’ll experience when smoking a cigar include:
-Woody and earthy flavors
-Spicy and peppery notes
-Sweet and fruity hints
-Floral elements
If you notice certain flavors as you smoke, be sure to take note of them. This will allow you to better understand the different tastes a cigar can provide and help you appreciate your cigar more fully.
6. Using the wrong lighter
You might think that all lighters are the same and that you can use any type to light your cigar, but this is not the case. For example, many cigar smokers prefer using a torch lighter or a st dupont lighter, as it allows them to get a better, more even light on their cigar.
What you’re trying to achieve when lighting a cigar is an even burn rather than a point source of heat. Therefore, using the correct type of lighter when smoking your cigars is essential.
Conclusion
If you are a new cigar smoker, there are a few common mistakes that you need to avoid to ensure a great flavor and experience. These include not checking the humidity and temperature of your cigars, not letting them breathe before smoking, cutting them improperly, ignoring the flavor notes of a cigar, and using the wrong type of lighter. Hopefully, now that you are aware of these mistakes, you can take steps to avoid them and enjoy your cigars to the fullest.
