Enjoying a premium cigar is a sophisticated experience, often savored over time. Knowing how to properly extinguish your cigar without ruining the flavor profile for a later session is crucial for any cigar aficionado. Improperly extinguishing a cigar can lead to a harsh, bitter taste upon relighting, ruining the overall experience. This guide will cover the best methods to ensure your cigar remains enjoyable for another time.
Why is Proper Extinguishing Important?
Before diving into the techniques, let's understand why simply crushing your cigar isn't ideal. Crushing the cigar damages the leaves, causing them to dry out unevenly. This uneven drying process leads to a less enjoyable smoking experience later on, with potentially bitter and harsh notes dominating the flavor. The goal is to preserve the cigar's condition and prevent unwanted combustion.
How to Properly Put Out a Cigar for Later
The preferred method for extinguishing a cigar is using a cigar cutter or punch. This method offers the most control and minimizes damage.
Using a Cigar Cutter/Punch
- Gently extinguish the ember: Using the cutter or punch, carefully press the burning end of the cigar against the surface. Avoid applying excessive pressure, which can crush the cigar. A few gentle presses will suffice to extinguish the ember.
- Check for residual embers: After extinguishing the cigar, carefully check the end to ensure that no embers are glowing. It's important to ensure complete extinguishment before putting it away.
- Store the cigar: Place the cigar back in its humidor or a protective cigar case.
Using a Guillotine Cutter (Alternative Method)
While not ideal, a guillotine cutter can also be used in a pinch. However, be extremely gentle to avoid damaging the cigar.
- Gentle Pressing: Lightly press the blade of the guillotine cutter against the lit end. Do not use a cutting motion.
- Carefully Extinguish: Gently press and roll the cigar against the blade until the ember is fully extinguished.
- Inspect & Store: Inspect for residual embers before storing in a humidified environment.
What NOT to Do
Avoid these practices:
- Crushing the cigar: This damages the leaves and ruins the cigar for later smoking.
- Extinguishing in ashtrays filled with water or liquid: This can lead to unwanted moisture damage.
- Leaving it burning unattended: This is a fire hazard and will ruin the cigar.
Maintaining Your Cigar for Future Enjoyment
Proper storage is vital to keeping your cigar enjoyable for the next session. A humidor is the optimal storage solution, maintaining the ideal humidity and temperature to preserve the leaves.
Maintaining Humidity and Temperature
Keeping your cigars at the correct humidity (ideally around 70%) and temperature is critical. Fluctuations in either can dry out or over-humidify your cigars, significantly impacting their flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How long can I store a partially smoked cigar?
This depends on how well you store it. With proper storage in a humidor, a partially smoked cigar can be stored for a few days to a week without significant degradation. However, the longer you store it, the more likely the flavor might change.
Can I relight a cigar multiple times?
While you can, each relighting will slightly alter the flavor profile. It's generally recommended to enjoy the cigar in one sitting whenever possible for the best flavor experience. However, if stored properly, multiple relights won’t ruin the cigar entirely, though it won’t be as enjoyable.
What are the signs of a damaged cigar?
Signs of a damaged cigar include dryness, cracking leaves, and a sour smell. A damaged cigar will burn unevenly and have a harsh taste.
By following these tips, you can enjoy a premium cigar in multiple sittings without compromising its flavor or quality. Remember, patience and care are key to preserving the enjoyment of your cigar.
