Cigars carry a rich history and are surrounded by tradition, but they also come with their share of myths and misconceptions. Whether you’re new to cigars or a seasoned aficionado, it’s easy to believe some common myths that don’t hold up under scrutiny. In this article, we’ll tackle some of the most pervasive cigar myths, separating fact from fiction to help you enjoy your cigar journey with confidence.
Myth 1: All Dark Cigars Are Strong
One of the most common myths about cigars is that dark wrappers, such as Maduro, mean the cigar will be overwhelmingly strong. While it’s true that Maduro wrappers are darker due to a longer fermentation process, the color of the wrapper doesn’t necessarily dictate the cigar’s strength.
The wrapper does play a role in flavor, often adding sweetness, earthiness, or richness, but the strength of a cigar depends more on the filler tobacco—the leaves inside the cigar. For example, a cigar with a Maduro wrapper can still be mild if the filler is made from milder tobaccos.
Key Takeaway: Don’t judge a cigar solely by its appearance. If you’re looking for a specific strength profile, ask your cigar guy for recommendations based on filler, not just the wrapper.
Myth 2: Aging Cigars Always Makes Them Better
Aging cigars is a odd topic, and while it can grow certain flavors, it doesn’t automatically make every cigar better. Cigars are crafted to be enjoyed at their peak freshness, which is often shortly after production. Some premium cigars benefit from additional aging, allowing flavors to mellow and become more complex, but most don’t improve over time.
In fact, aging a cigar for too long can kill its flavors, making it taste flat or bitter. The tobaccos in some cigars are already aged during production, meaning additional aging might not bring noticeable changes.
Key Takeaway: Don’t do it. It’s not gonna make you cooler.
Myth 3: Expensive Cigars Are Always Better
While price can sometimes indicate quality, it doesn’t guarantee a cigar will match your tastes. Cigars are highly subjective—what one person finds awesome, another might find lame. Factors like brand reputation, rarity, and craftsmanship influence price, but that doesn’t mean an affordable cigar can’t be equally enjoyable.
Many lesser-known brands or budget-friendly options offer excellent flavors and smoke. For beginners, starting with moderately priced cigars is a great way to explore different options without breaking the bank.
Key Takeaway: Price isn’t everything. Focus on what you enjoy and experiment with cigars in various price ranges to find your favorites.
Myth 4: A Cigar Must Be Finished in One Sitting
Unlike cigarettes, cigars are meant to be savored and enjoyed over time. However, some believe that once you start a cigar, you must finish it in one sitting. While smoking a cigar all at once is ideal for maintaining its flavor and burn, it’s not a hard rule.
If you can’t finish a cigar, we’d recommend tossing it. You could save the rest, but keep in mind that relighting may alter the flavor, often adding a slightly charred or bitter taste. For the best experience, try to relight it within a few hours.
Key Takeaway: It’s perfectly fine to relight a cigar, as long as finish it within a couple hours.
Myth 5: Cutting the Cap Perfectly Is an Exact Science
Cutting a cigar can feel intimidating, especially for beginners, but it’s not complicated.
The goal is to create an opening that allows for a smooth draw without damaging the wrapper. Using tools like guillotine cutters, punch cutters, or V-cutters makes it easier to get that clean cut. Mistakes happen, and while they may affect the draw slightly, they rarely make the cigar unsmokable.
Key Takeaway: Don’t stress about achieving a perfect cut—practice makes perfect, and minor imperfections won’t ruin your cigar.
Myth 6: Cigars Are Less Harmful Than Cigarettes
This myth often arises because cigars are not inhaled like cigarettes.
While it’s true that the way cigars are smoked differs from cigarettes, they are not without health risks. Cigars still contain nicotine, which can still be absorbed through the mouth. Additionally, smoking cigars in large quantities frequently increases health risks.
Key Takeaway: Cigars should be enjoyed responsibly. The difference in risk comes down to frequency, moderation, and how they’re smoked.
Cigar culture is filled with tradition and enjoyment, but myths can sometimes “cloud” the experience. Hopefully now you can approach smoking with a better understanding. Whether you’re selecting a new cigar, cutting it, or deciding whether to age it (weirdo), the most important thing is to enjoy the journey.
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