Cigar myths 11-19

Table of Contents

11. You should never ash the cigar, it should fall off by itself.

Myth and myth, I don’t know if it is, more old cigar ethics you could almost call it. An ethic I really dislike. Smoking a cigar should be done the way you feel is best. The ash helps cool the cigar down a bit and in a way helps with the flavor. But if you want to remove the ashes, do so and ignore the surroundings. I prefer to remove the ash before it falls off to avoid having it in my lap.

12. Quality cigars have seams that are almost invisible

Cigars are a natural product and the color of the leaf may vary slightly, which means that seams can be seen. Even the thickness of the wrapper can have an effect on whether you can see the seam or not. The important thing is that the cigar is evenly and firmly rolled without the wrapper being loose.

13. You need a humidor if you are going to smoke cigars

A humidor naturally helps to keep the cigars in good condition. But do you need it? Yes, if you want to store the cigars for a long time, but if you buy cigars that you will smoke up during the week or next month, it is not a must. If you are going to store them for a short time, such as a month, it is fine to store them in a resealable bag with a moisture-regulating bag such as boveda or a home-made humidor. Read our tips on how to build a sompelt here: Making a cheap homemade humidor. – Vdg-cigars . However, if you are going to store them for a long time, a humidor is a good investment.

14. You need to smoke the cigar to the end or it’s a waste

This is one of the dumber myths or rather claims I’ve heard. Continuing to smoke a cigar when you are satisfied and want to quit but continuing is a waste of time and experience. A cigar is an experience and should be finished when you feel the taste no longer appeals to you or you feel ready. When you’re full at dinner, do you keep eating?

15. You can predict the flavor of a cigar by smelling the wrapper and at the foot of the cigar

The scent of an unlit cigar can hint at some aromas, but it doesn’t reveal the full smoking experience. Flavor develops when the tobacco burns, releasing complex notes influenced by the blend, aging, and construction. A cigar that smells sweet or spicy before lighting may taste completely different when smoked.

16. The best drink to pair a cigar with is whiskey or cognac

While whiskey and cognac are popular choices, there is no single “best” drink for pairing with a cigar. The right pairing depends on personal taste and the cigar’s flavor profile. Rum, coffee, port, beer, water, soda and even tea can complement a cigar just as well. The key is finding a balance where neither the drink nor the cigar overpowers the other.

17. Long ash indicates the quality of a cigar

A long, firm ash can suggest good construction and proper rolling, it doesn’t necessarily mean the cigar is high quality. A well-made cigar should have a solid ash, but true quality comes from the blend, aging, and overall smoking experience. Some premium cigars may have a flaky ash due to the type of tobacco used, while some lower-quality cigars might hold a long ash but lack flavor and balance.

18. The body of a cigar tells the strength of the cigar

The body of a cigar refers to its flavor intensity, while strength relates to the nicotine content. A cigar can be full-bodied with rich, complex flavors but still have mild strength. Likewise, a mild-bodied cigar can pack a surprising nicotine punch.