Two simple gestures stand between you and a great smoke: the cut and the light. Get them right and the cigar rewards you; rush them and even the finest cigar suffers.

The cut: less is more

Your goal is to open the closed end (the cap) without unraveling the cigar. The safest tool is a guillotine cutter.

1. Find the cap line, a small ridge near the rounded end.
2. Cut just above that line, removing only the very top.
3. One firm, confident cut. Hesitation tears the wrapper.

A punch cutter or a V-cutter also work and open a smaller hole. Never bite or use a knife: you will mutilate the cigar and ruin the draw.

The light: patience, not haste

Use a butane lighter or a long cedar match. Avoid regular lighters and candles, whose fuel taints the flavor.

1. Hold the cigar at a 45-degree angle, just above the flame, without touching it.
2. Rotate slowly and toast the foot until the edge glows evenly.
3. Now put it to your lips and draw gently while you keep rotating, until the whole foot is lit.

A patient, even light is the foundation of an even burn.

Test and enjoy

Take a slow draw. If the smoke is cool and even, you are ready. Never inhale: cigars are tasted, not breathed in. Let it rest between puffs and enjoy the ritual.

It sounds like a lot, but these are two gestures you learn just once. If you would rather see them in person, drop by or message us and we will show you.