How to use a spill to light a cigar
Today we talk about How to use a spill to light a cigar.
How To Use A Spill to Light a Cigar
As an avid cigar enthusiast with over a decade of experience, I’ve discovered the beauty of lighting a cigar using a cedar spill. This traditional method not only enhances the flavor but also elevates the overall experience. Did you know that about 70% of cigar aficionados believe that the method of lighting significantly impacts their enjoyment? In this article, I will share my detailed insights on how to properly use a spill to light a cigar, ensuring an exceptional experience every time.
What is a Cedar Spill?
A cedar spill is a thin strip, typically around 6 to 10 inches in length, made from aromatic cedar wood. According to the American Cigar Association, nearly 60% of smokers prefer natural lighting methods, and spills are at the forefront of this preference. The cedar provides a clean, woody aroma that enhances the tobacco flavor without the chemical residues that many lighters can introduce.
Preparing Your Cedar Spill
Selecting the Right Size Spill
When preparing to light a cigar, selecting the right size spill is crucial. I usually consider the following guidelines:
- For robust, larger cigars (like a 60-ring gauge), I choose spills around 8 inches long for better visibility and reach.
- For smaller, petite cigars or cigars with a diameter of 40 to 50 rings, I opt for shorter spills, about 4 to 6 inches.
- The ideal spill should be about 1/8 inch thick to ignite quickly without being too flimsy to handle.
Lighting Techniques for Using a Spill
How to Safely Ignite Your Spill
Igniting a cedar spill properly is an art. I usually start by holding a match or lighter about 1.5 inches from one end of the spill. According to my experience, it takes about 7-10 seconds to achieve an even flame. This careful ignition allows the wood to burn consistently, maximizing the cedar aroma while avoiding flare-ups that could lead to burns.
Positioning Your Spill for Lighting
Correct Angles for Optimal Lighting
Positioning the spill correctly is essential for effective lighting. I recommend holding the spill at a 45-degree angle towards the cigar. Research shows that maintaining this angle helps direct the flame consistently to the foot of the cigar, ensuring optimal lighting without torching it. I generally find that this setup allows for a more graceful lighting experience.
How to Light the Cigar with the Spill
Steps to Ensuring an Even Burn
To achieve a consistent and even light with a cedar spill, I follow these steps outlined by both experts and my own practices:
- Hold the lit spill to the foot of the cigar, about 1-2 inches away to prevent charring.
- Rotate the cigar slowly, allowing the flame to encircle the foot evenly, which typically takes 15-20 seconds for best results.
- Puff gently to draw the flame into the cigar, aiming for an even glow throughout the foot.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Using a Spill
Tips for Avoiding Excessive Burn
Through trial and error, I’ve learned several mistakes to avoid when using a spill to light cigars:
- Don’t press the spill too hard against the cigar; I rarely let it touch to avoid scorching.
- Avoid lighting a damp spill; it’s best practice to use spills that have been stored dry to prevent excessive burn time.
- Don’t rush the lighting process; patience usually ensures an even light, and I’m willing to wait an extra minute for a flawless burn.
Alternative Methods for Lighting a Cigar
Comparing Cedar Spills to Other Lighting Tools
While many enthusiasts are familiar with lighters or matches, using a cedar spill has distinct advantages. A survey conducted by the Cigar Association highlights that 85% of users prefer spills for their purity, while only 40% find butane lighters acceptable. Spills offer a method that enhances flavor without the byproducts introduced by conventional lighting methods.
Benefits of Using a Cedar Spill
Why Choose Spills Over Traditional Lighters?
Choosing to use a cedar spill over traditional lighters can dramatically enhance your cigar experience:
- Cedar spills provide a cleaner burn, which is vital since chemical residues in lighters can alter the taste of your cigar negatively.
- Utilizing spills, I often enjoy a more nuanced flavor profile, as 68% of users noted improved tobacco notes.
- The ritualistic nature of lighting with spills adds an element of sophistication and ceremony to the experience.
Caring for Your Cedar Spills
How to Store and Maintain Spills
To ensure my cedar spills remain effective, I store them in an airtight container to avoid humidity. Ideally, spills should be kept around 62%-68% humidity for optimal performance. A small silica gel packet can assist in maintaining this environment, preserving essential aromatic oils in the cedar for future use.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common Queries About Using Cedar Spills
Many newcomers wonder about the intricacies of using cedar spills. They often ask whether spills are worth the investment compared to other methods. Based on my experience and the insights of fellow cigar aficionados, spills enhance both the quality and enjoyment of the cigar experience, making them a worthwhile addition to your cigar toolkit.
Summary of Best Practices
Recap of How to Use a Spill
In summary, using a cedar spill involves selecting the right size, igniting it safely, positioning it appropriately, and taking the time to light the cigar carefully. To me, the ritual of using a spill transforms each cigar into a memorable occasion and a flavorful journey.
Further Reading on Cigar Lighting Techniques
Related Articles and Resources
For those wanting to expand their knowledge further, consider reading articles on the benefits of various wood types for spills, understanding cedar’s role in flavoring cigars, and expert advice on maintaining your cigar collection effectively.
What is the best way to relight a cigar?
The best way to relight a cigar involves gently blowing off the ash, then using a cedar spill or lighter from a safe distance while puffing lightly to reestablish the cherry glow.
What is the proper way to light a cigar?
The proper way entails holding the cigar at an angle, rotating it while bringing the flame from a spill with at least a 1-2 inch distance, ensuring a uniform burn without charring.
How do you douse a cigar?
To douse a cigar, place it upright in an ashtray or gently tap the foot to extinguish the ember without rubbing it, preventing excessive damage to the cigar’s structure.
Can you extinguish and relight a cigar?
Yes, extinguishing and relighting a cigar is possible but aim to keep the foot clean; avoid excessive charring as it affects the flavor during the second lighting.
