Cigar Culture
The art of the cigar
For centuries the cigar has been a companion to celebration, friendship and quiet reflection. This page is a tribute to that enduring tradition.
How to enjoy a cigar
01
Cut
With a sharp guillotine, cut just above the cap in one clean motion; cutting too much will unravel the cigar.
02
Light
Never touch the flame directly to the foot; hold it a few millimetres away, rotating to toast it evenly. A cedar match or a soft-flame lighter is ideal.
03
Savour
Do not inhale — let the smoke roll around your mouth, savour it, release it. Smoking a cigar is closer to savouring than to breathing.
04
Take your time
One draw a minute is plenty; puffing too often overheats the cigar and turns it bitter. Don't tap the ash too soon — it balances the heat.
Pairing cigars with drinks
The basic rule is simple: match the intensity of the drink to the strength of the cigar. A mild cigar is crushed beneath a powerful spirit; a strong cigar will silence a delicate drink. Always keep a glass of still water at hand.
Cognac & Brandy
The classic pairing. Warm, fruity and caramel notes find flawless harmony with cigars carrying oak and vanilla.
Whisky
The smoky depth of a Scotch single malt balances full-bodied cigars. The sweetness of bourbon suits medium-strength cigars.
Rum
The earthy companion of the Cuban cigar. Aged dark rum adds warmth to spicy, leathery profiles.
Coffee & Espresso
Ideal for the earlier hours. It complements mild-to-medium cigars with coffee notes.
Dark Chocolate
Chocolate of 70% or above offers an elegant sweet finale alongside cigars with nutty, sweet-spice notes.