how to save a cigar for later

Saving a half-smoked cigar for later can be a pleasure, but it's important to follow the proper procedures to ensure it's preserved and enjoys its full flavor when you're ready to smoke it again. This guide will walk you through the steps to properly save a half-smoked cigar.

What is a Half-Smoked Cigar?

A half-smoked cigar is a cigar that has been smoked to a point where it still has plenty of life in it, but you're not ready to finish it just yet. These cigars typically still have a significant portion of their flavor profile left, making them a great candidate for saving.

Why Save a Half-Smoked Cigar?

Saving a half-smoked cigar can be a thoughtful gesture, offering you the chance to enjoy that particular smoke again at a later time. It's also a great way to share a special stick with friends or loved ones who may not be smoking cigars, providing them with the joy of enjoying it.

Best Time to Save a Cigar

The best time to save a half-smoked cigar is right after you've finished smoking it. This allows the tobacco to stop smoldering naturally and ensures that the flavor is preserved. If you have to put it out early, follow the sections below on how to properly extinguish and store the cigar.

Extinguish the Cigar

Before you start the process of storing a half-smoked cigar, you'll need to put it out completely. Here are some different ways to put out a cigar:

1. Let It Burn Out: Simply set the cigar in an ashtray and wait for it to go out on its own. This method is the most conservative and allows the cigar to burn out on its own terms.

2. Avoid Stamping It Out:Never stomp, crush, or otherwise put out a cigar. This can damage the leaves and release unwanted flavors. Instead, let the cigar burn out naturally.

3. Use an Ashtray with Wide Grooves: Place the cigar directly in an ashtray with wideGrooves. These deep grooves allow for even heat distribution, preventing the center from charring.

Prepare the Cigar for Storage

Once the cigar is extinguished, you'll want to prepare it for storage. Follow these steps:

1. Remove Any Ash: Gently tap the cigar to remove any leftover ash. This will keep the cigar clean and fresh for storage.

2. Check the Cap: Ensure the cigar's cap, or closed-end, is in good condition. If it's damaged, it may need to be re-cut before relighting.

3. Consider a Cigar Holder: If you have a cigar holder, it's a good idea to place the cigar inside to protect it from tarnishment while it's being stored.

Store the Half-Smoked Cigar

Here are some different ways to store a half-smoked cigar:

1. Use a Humidor: A humidor is an excellent choice for storing half-smoked cigars, as it provides the perfect humidity level (-1 to 1 percent) that's needed for tobacco preservation.

2. Plastic Ziploc Bag: If you don't have access to a humidor, you can use a plastic ziploc bag to store your half-smoked cigars. Make sure to add a Boveda humidity pack to help maintain the right humidity levels.

3. Avoid Extreme Temperatures: Keep the cigars away from direct sunlight and extreme heat, which can affect the tobacco's quality.

Relight a Half-Smoked Cigar

When you're ready to relight your half-smoked cigar, here's what you can do:

1. Inspect the Cigar: Before relighting, examine the cigar for any signs of damage or dryness. If you notice any issues, it may be necessary to re-cut the cap.

2. Toaster the Foot: Hold the flame about a half-inch away from the cigar's foot. Rotate the cigar as you toast it evenly without scorching it.

3. Light and Enjoy: After the foot is well-toasted, gently draw air into your mouth while holding the flame over the foot. Puff slowly and deliberately, letting the flavors meld together over time.

Savoring Every Puff

Saving a half-smoked cigar is about appreciating its unique flavor profile and experiencing its subtleties. Make sure to store the cigar correctly and relight it when the time comes to fully engage with its aroma and taste., saving a half-smoked cigar for later involves proper extinguishing, preparation, storage, and relighting techniques. By following these steps, you can enjoy that nice, flavorful cigar even more when you're ready to smoke it again.