10 Tips for New Cigar Smokers: Your Complete Guide to Getting Started
So, you're intrigued by the world of cigars? Maybe you've seen someone enjoying one and thought, "That looks relaxing," or perhaps you're drawn to the rich history and tradition surrounding them. Whatever your reason, welcome! The world of premium cigars is booming, and now is the perfect time to embark on this flavorful journey.
Did you know that the global cigar and cigarillos market was valued at approximately $54.79 billion in 2024 and is projected to reach $102.17 billion by 2033? That's a compound annual growth rate of 7.2 percent, indicating a thriving industry with an ever-expanding array of quality options for newcomers like you [3]! In the United States alone, the cigar market generated $13.33 billion in revenue in 2024, accounting for over 66.4 percent of the global luxury cigar market [1].
This guide is designed to help you navigate the sometimes-intimidating world of cigars with confidence. We'll cover everything from choosing your first cigar to mastering the art of lighting and enjoying it. Get ready to unlock a world of fun and enjoyment!
1. So You Want to Start Smoking Cigars
The allure of cigars is multifaceted. For some, it's the social aspect – sharing a cigar with friends, marking a special occasion, or sealing a business deal [32]. For others, it's a personal ritual, a moment of quiet contemplation in our increasingly hectic world [56, 59]. Unlike cigarettes, which are often consumed quickly and habitually, cigars demand patience, attention, and a mindful approach. They transform smoking into a deliberate ritual, a chance to slow down and savor the moment.
The current market offers an incredible range of options for beginners. Mild and medium-strength cigars are the most popular entry points, providing satisfying flavor without overwhelming nicotine [43]. The mass-market segment, including more affordable premium cigars, accounts for approximately 77.9 percent of the global cigar market [3]. This means you don't have to break the bank while you're still learning what you like.
2. How to Get Started
One of the best things about starting your cigar journey today is the abundance of resources available. Online forums, video tutorials, and guides like this one offer detailed instruction on everything from selecting a humidor to mastering advanced techniques like retrohaling (exhaling smoke through the nose to experience additional flavor) [34]. Many cigar shops have knowledgeable staff who are passionate about helping newcomers find cigars that match their taste and experience level [37].
Don't be afraid to ask questions! Tobacconists can offer personalized recommendations based on your preferred flavors, smoking duration, and budget. This makes the initial selection process much less daunting.
The emphasis on experiential smoking is a significant trend. Cigar lounges are evolving into experience hubs, offering cigar pairings with premium spirits, live music, masterclasses on tobacco cultivation, and "smoke and sip" events [5]. These venues are ideal for learning proper techniques, asking questions without judgment, and connecting with other enthusiasts. The social dimension of cigar smoking remains one of its most appealing aspects.
As you start, be realistic and willing to experiment. Not every cigar will be a winner, and your preferences will evolve as your palate develops. Many experienced smokers find that cigars they initially disliked become favorites later on [37]. Approach each smoking session as a learning opportunity, a chance to refine your technique and enjoy the moment without rushing or overthinking.
3. How to Store Them (The Humidor)
Once you've acquired some cigars, proper storage is crucial. Premium handmade cigars are organic products that are sensitive to environmental conditions. Without proper storage, they can dry out, become too moist, develop mold, or lose their essential oils.
The goal is to maintain specific humidity and temperature levels. The "70/70 rule" is a good guideline: 70 degrees Fahrenheit and 70 percent relative humidity [10]. This keeps the tobacco at the optimal moisture content for burning and flavor [11].
A traditional wooden humidor is the gold standard, with Spanish cedar being the most highly recommended wood [7, 10]. Spanish cedar resists insects, absorbs and re-emits moisture, and imparts a subtle aroma that enhances the tobacco flavors.
If you're not ready to invest in a humidor yet, a "tupperdor" (an airtight plastic food storage container with Boveda humidity packs) is a surprisingly effective short-term solution [8]. A "coolidor" (a beverage cooler adapted for cigar storage) offers even more capacity [9].
Regardless of your storage method, use a hygrometer to monitor humidity. Digital hygrometers are more accurate than analog ones [8]. Also, consider using Boveda packs for easy humidity control [10]. They're simple, foolproof, and require no monitoring.
Before storing cigars in a new humidor, you need to season it. This involves raising the wood's moisture content to prevent it from drying out your cigars [10]. You can do this by wiping down the interior with distilled water or using Boveda seasoning packs.
4. How to Cut a Cigar
Cutting a cigar is the first hands-on interaction, and doing it correctly is essential for a good draw. Every premium handmade cigar has a closed head covered by a cap [45]. You need to remove the cap to create an opening for airflow.
The goal is to remove just enough of the cap to allow a proper draw without causing the wrapper to unravel [13, 16]. Cut above the shoulder line (where the curved cap meets the straight body of the cigar). Remove roughly the circumference of a dime [45]. It's better to cut too little than too much.
The straight cut (guillotine cut) is the most common and versatile method [14]. Use a double-blade guillotine cutter for a clean cut [14]. Hold the cigar firmly, position the blade just above the shoulder line, and make one quick, decisive cut [13].
Alternative methods include the V-cut (wedge cut) and the punch cut [14, 17]. The V-cut creates a more concentrated draw and minimizes the risk of unraveling. The punch cut removes a small plug from the center of the cap.
Invest in quality cutting tools. Xikar is a highly regarded brand with lifetime warranties [15, 18]. The Xikar Xi1 and Xikar XO are excellent choices [18]. For V-cuts, the Colibri V-Cut is the gold standard [15].
If you don't have a cutter, you can use a sharp pocket knife or even your fingernail in a pinch [16]. However, a quality cutter is a worthwhile investment.
5. How to Light a Cigar
Properly lighting a cigar is as important as cutting it correctly. The goal is to achieve an even, complete light across the entire foot (the open end) without overheating or scorching the tobacco [19, 20]. This can take 30 to 60 seconds or longer.
A butane torch lighter is the optimal choice [19, 20]. It produces a clean-burning, odorless flame that doesn't impart unwanted flavors. Torch lighters come in single, double, triple, and quad-jet configurations. Use high-quality refined butane fuel.
Avoid petrol lighters (like Zippos), paper matches, and sulfur matchbook matches, as they can impart unwanted flavors [20, 22, 23]. If you use matches, opt for long wooden cedar matches or cedar spills [22].
The lighting technique involves two phases: toasting the foot and completing the light. Hold the cigar at a 45-degree angle, positioning the foot about half an inch to one inch above the flame [19, 21]. Slowly rotate the cigar, watching as the heat chars the edges of the tobacco. Toast until you see a thin, even black ring around the entire foot [21].
Next, bring the cigar to your mouth and begin puffing gently while continuing to rotate the foot over the flame. The goal is to draw the heat into the cigar, igniting the tobacco evenly. Avoid taking hard, forceful puffs, as this can overheat the cigar and create harsh flavors. Continue puffing and rotating until the entire foot is glowing evenly.
6. Where to Buy Them
You can buy cigars online or at brick-and-mortar shops. Online retailers like Famous Smoke Shop [25], BestCigarPrices [26], Atlantic Cigar [27], and Cigars.com [28] offer a wide selection and competitive prices. However, you can't physically inspect the cigars before buying.
Brick-and-mortar shops offer a more personal experience. You can see and smell the cigars before purchasing, and you can get recommendations from knowledgeable staff [27, 29]. Cigar lounges are also great places to buy cigars and enjoy them in a comfortable setting [55].
7. Smoke Slowly
Cigar smoking is about relaxation and enjoyment, not speed. Take your time and savor each puff [31, 56]. A typical cigar should last anywhere from 45 minutes to over an hour, depending on its size.
Puffing too quickly can overheat the cigar and create harsh flavors [33, 36]. Aim for one to two puffs per minute. Relight the cigar if it goes out. Don't inhale the smoke. Cigar smoking is about savoring the flavors in your mouth, not getting nicotine into your lungs.
8. Relax, Enjoy, Have Fun
The most important tip is to relax, enjoy, and have fun! Cigar smoking is a hobby to be savored, not a chore to be rushed [31, 56]. Experiment with different cigars, cutters, and lighters to find what you like.
Don't be afraid to ask questions and seek advice from experienced smokers. The cigar community is generally welcoming and eager to share their knowledge.
Consider pairing your cigar with a beverage like whiskey, coffee, or even chocolate [49, 52]. Experiment with different pairings to find what complements your cigar best.
Remember that practice and time are key to developing your palate and refining your technique. The more you smoke, the more you'll learn about your preferences and the nuances of different cigars.
9. Etiquette
While enjoying your cigar, remember basic etiquette [30, 53]. Always ask permission before lighting up in someone's home or car. Dispose of your cigar butt properly in an ashtray. Don't chew on the cigar or wave it around excessively.
10. Health Considerations
It's important to acknowledge the health risks associated with cigar smoking [54, 57]. While cigar smoking is different from cigarette smoking, it still carries risks. Be aware of these risks and make informed decisions.
Conclusion
Embarking on your cigar journey is an exciting adventure. By following these tips, you'll be well-equipped to navigate the world of premium cigars with confidence and enjoyment. Remember to practice and time are key to developing your palate and refining your technique. So, relax, light up, and savor the moment.
Ready to start exploring the world of cigars? Head down to your local cigar shop or browse online retailers to find your first smoke. And don't forget to invest in a good lighter and cutter! Happy smoking!
Sources and References
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[2]https://farmhouseblends.com/post/top-best-cigars-for-beginner
[3]https://www.grandviewresearch.com/industry-analysis/cigar-cigarillos-market
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[13]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pHDmUIPx8DI
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[15]https://smoking-hub.com/best-cigar-cutters/
[16]https://bovedainc.com/how-to-properly-cut-a-cigar/
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[22]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ignsVhm7r5k
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[54]https://www.health.harvard.edu/heart-health/cigar-pipe-and-smokeless-tobacco-use-linked-to-distinct-heart-risks
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