How to Put Out a Cigar for Later: Keeping Your Smoke Spot On
Enjoying a premium cigar is an experience, and sometimes life calls before you've finished. Knowing how to properly extinguish your cigar without ruining it for later is crucial for savoring that perfectly aged blend another time. This guide will walk you through several methods, highlighting the best practices for preserving your cigar's flavor and aroma.
Why is Properly Extinguishing a Cigar Important?
Improperly extinguishing a cigar can lead to several issues, most notably:
- Burning unevenly: A poorly extinguished cigar is prone to burning unevenly when re-lit, impacting the flavor profile and creating an unpleasant smoking experience.
- Dryness and cracking: The cigar's delicate wrapper can dry out and crack if exposed to air, affecting the draw and taste.
- Loss of flavor: Exposure to air can dissipate the complex flavors and aromas that make a cigar special.
How to Put Out a Cigar for Later: The Methods
There are several techniques you can employ to put out a cigar temporarily:
1. The Classic "Punch-Out" Method:
This is perhaps the most widely known method. Gently press the lit end of the cigar into an ashtray, ensuring even pressure across the surface. This should effectively extinguish the ember and leave the cigar relatively undamaged. However, it’s crucial to avoid excessive pressure, which can crush the cigar.
2. The "Guillotine" Method:
If you have a cigar cutter with a sharp blade, you can use it to cut a small slice off the lit end of the cigar. This neatly trims the burning ember, leaving a fresh surface to relight later. This approach is less messy than the punch-out method and minimizes the chance of crushing the cigar.
3. The "Water Method":
While not recommended for long-term storage, the water method can work in a pinch. Gently press the lit end into a glass of water, only for a few seconds. This will quickly extinguish the ember without damaging the cigar too extensively. However, be mindful that too much water exposure might affect the cigar’s texture and flavor.
4. The "Ashtray-and-Rest" Method (for short breaks):
For brief interruptions, simply rest your cigar in the ashtray, ensuring the lit end is not touching anything flammable. A good cigar rest with adequate ventilation will help keep the cigar's ember cool, making it simpler to relight. However, this method is best for short breaks, typically under 15-20 minutes.
Storing Your Cigar After Extinguishing:
Regardless of the method you choose, proper storage is key. After extinguishing, place your cigar in an airtight humidor or cigar case to maintain its ideal humidity and prevent drying out. A humidor ensures that the cigar remains in optimal condition until you're ready to relight it.
Can I relight a cigar after several hours?
While it's possible, the longer the cigar sits after being extinguished, the less likely it is to provide the same optimal smoking experience. Extended periods of time can lead to uneven burning, dryness, and an altered flavor profile.
What if my cigar goes out completely?
If your cigar has gone out completely and you can't relight it, it’s best to treat it as a finished cigar. Attempting to relight a completely dead cigar may yield a harsh, unpleasant smoke.
By following these steps and choosing the appropriate method for your situation, you can enjoy your favorite cigar over multiple sittings, maximizing the enjoyment of your premium smoke. Remember, patience and attention to detail are crucial for preserving the quality and taste of your cigar.
