What could be simpler than lighting a cigar? Well, like lots of things today it may be a specialized skill. Of course, with no it you are able to still enjoy a cigar. But to enjoy it to the fullest, putting forth some effort to acquire that skill is well worth the time.
First, what not to do.
Yes, you can use a match to light your cigar. But it’s not the best method because matches contain sulfur and that imparts a nasty taste to your smoke. It’s also not particularly healthy. So, if you carry out use a match, be sure you let it burn down past the head before raising the match to the cigar end.
Yes, you should utilize a Zippo-style lighter. But in all probability you’ll introduce unpleasant fumes into your puff and that lessens the wonderful flavor of a fine cigar. The lighter fluid found in those lighters produces several organic compounds when burned that don’t mix well with a smoke.
If you must use one, puff lightly then exhale quickly as a way to minimize the quantity of foul compounds introduced into the smoke. Pull the lighter away immediately.
Similarly, if you must use a candle, avoid drawing in the compounds coming off the wick. Burning raw candle wax produces mostly carbon dioxide and hot water vapor, neither of which are foul tasting. But some candles are scented and the burning wick may give off hardly any carbon monoxide.
Now, for how to proceed.
Having a butane or propane cigar lighter is your best bet. There are dozens of styles on the market. Find one that fits your hand and produces a steady, even flame even in moderate wind.
Raise the lighter close to the exposed foot (the end) of the cigar, but avoid touching the flame directly to the tobacco. The heat from the flame will extend a few millimeters far from the visible portion, so there’s you don’t ‘dunk’ the cigar in it.
As you expose the foot to heat, hold the cigar away from your mouth and rotate the cigar slowly. Apply the heat only long enough to get just around half the end lit. Blow gently on the end to produce an even, burning coal and blow off ash that would tend to extinguish it.
Puff and rotate til you have the end completely lit, but don’t be fanatic about it. A good cigar is made to light and burn well.
Good cigars, though, are also hand-packed and designed to go out if not puffed on for a couple of minutes. Some argue you must not re-light a cigar, but there’s little basis for their worry. A good smoke will stay a good smoke even if re-lit shortly after going out.