Lighting a cigar is an art that enhances the smoking experience, ensuring an even burn and optimal flavor.
In this installment of our Cigar 101 Series, we’ll explore the essentials of cigar lighting, guiding you through the process to elevate your enjoyment of Avanti cigars.
Selecting the Right Tools
Choosing appropriate tools is crucial for a proper light.
Cigar Lighters: Opt for butane lighters, as they provide a clean, odorless flame that won’t interfere with the cigar’s flavor.
Matches: Wooden matches are preferable. Allow the sulfur to burn off before introducing the flame to the cigar to avoid unwanted tastes.
Cedar Spills: These thin wood strips are of Spanish origin and have a storied history, rooted in the method of transferring fire from a hearth to a candle, lamp, or cigar before the invention of matches and lighters. Cedar spills offer a traditional way to light up, imparting a subtle cedar aroma to the cigar.
The Importance of Toasting
Before drawing on the cigar, toasting the foot (the end you light) ensures an even burn.
Technique: Hold the cigar at a 45-degree angle, about half an inch above the flame. Rotate it slowly, allowing the heat to evenly toast the foot without direct contact with the flame.
Outcome: This process warms the tobacco, promoting a uniform burn and enhancing the cigar’s natural flavors.
Lighting the Cigar
After toasting, proceed to light the cigar.
Draw and Rotate: Place the cigar in your mouth and draw gently while rotating it above the flame. This action pulls the flame to the foot, igniting it evenly.
Check the Burn: After lighting, observe the foot to ensure it’s evenly lit. If necessary, gently blow on the foot to promote an even ember.
Maintaining the Flame
To keep your cigar burning evenly:
Puff Regularly: Take deliberate puffs every minute or so to maintain the ember and prevent the cigar from going out.
Avoid Overdrawing: Too frequent or forceful puffs can overheat the cigar, leading to harsh flavors.
And if your cigar ever goes out, don’t worry – relighting it the right way makes all the difference.
Experience with Avanti Cigars
From quick, bold puffs to long, evolving flavors, the size of your cigar impacts the smoke experience. Choosing the right size ensures the best enjoyment. Whether you’re looking for a quick break or an extended smoke, Avanti has the perfect cigar for every moment.
Parodi Ammezzati (3.5 inches): A compact cigar delivering a concentrated fire-cured flavor, perfect for a quick but satisfying smoke.
Parodi Kings (4.5 inches): A balanced, medium-length smoke with a steady burn, ideal for both casual and deliberate sessions.
Parodi Superiore (6.25 inches): A long-format cigar where smoky, roasted flavors evolve with every draw for a richer experience.
Kentucky Cheroots (5.5 inches): A full-bodied, slow-burning smoke with peppery and roasted notes, offering a deep appreciation of fire-cured Kentucky tobacco.
By mastering the art of lighting, you ensure that each Avanti cigar delivers its intended flavor and aroma, providing a satisfying and memorable smoking session. Explore our full selection of Avanti cigars to find your perfect match and put these lighting techniques into practice.