How to Light a Cigar Properly

To light a cigar properly, toast the foot (the open end) just above the flame without touching it, rotating until the edge glows evenly. Then draw gently while holding the flame close, turning the cigar until the whole foot is lit. Use butane or wooden matches, never a scented or petrol lighter, which taints the flavor. A patient, even light is the foundation of a good smoke.

Choose the right flame

The flame matters as much as the technique:

• Butane torch lighter: clean, odorless, and windproof. The most reliable choice.
• Soft-flame butane lighter: gentler and also odorless; takes a little longer.
• Long wooden matches or cedar spills: traditional and flavor-neutral once the match head has fully burned off.

Avoid ordinary fluid lighters and any scented flame. The fumes soak into the tobacco and ruin the first third of the cigar.

Step one: toast the foot

Hold the cigar at a 45-degree angle with the foot just above (not in) the flame. Rotate it slowly so the entire rim of tobacco begins to char and glow. This "toasting" stage warms the foot evenly before you ever draw, which prevents a lopsided burn.

Step two: light while drawing

Bring the cigar to your mouth, keep the flame just below the foot, and draw gently while continuing to rotate. You will see the foot brighten with each puff. Keep turning until the entire circle is glowing.

Step three: check and correct

Take the cigar out and look at the foot. It should glow evenly all the way around. If one side lags, hold that edge to the flame for a moment to even it up. A good start here saves you from fighting an uneven burn later.

Common lighting mistakes

• Touching the flame directly to the tobacco: scorches it and adds a bitter, charred taste.
• Rushing: an uneven initial light leads to a burn that runs crooked the whole way.
• Using a scented or fluid lighter: contaminates the flavor.
• Not toasting first: skipping the toast stage is the top cause of an uneven burn.

Where to go next

Now that it is lit, learn how to smoke a cigar properly and how to relight one if it goes out. New to all of this? Start with the beginner's guide.