Even before lighting a Cigar, a fundamental step directly affects the quality of the tasting: CuttingOften underestimated, it is responsible for allowing proper passage of smoke, ensuring a balanced and comfortable ingestion.
The closed end of the cigar, known as the head, is protected by a small portion of a lid called ‘cap’ means theThe purpose of the cut is to remove only the part necessary to open the airflow without compromising the structure of the lid.
Type of Cutters and their Characteristics
Among the cutters most commonly used in the cigar ritual are:
- Guilhotine (single or double lamina): The most popular and versatile model, providing a clean straight cut.
- The following is the list of the types of punch cutters: It creates a small circular hole in the head, preserving the structure of the lid.
- V-cutter: It creates a wedge-shaped incision, concentrating the flow of smoke.
The straight cut is the most versatile and widely recommended. Punch It preserves the head structure better, although it may restrict the flow of smaller cigar sizes.
The Risks of Inadequate Court
When the cut is not properly carried out, several problems may arise:
- Cut very deep: It can cause the lid to unravel, compromising the combustion and aesthetics of the cigar.
- Very shallow cut: It restricts the passage of smoke, making tasting difficult and reducing the perception of the flavours of the blend.
In addition to the structural issue, the court directly influences the call for dispatch term used to describe the passage of smoke through Cigars.A proper dispatch allows the aromas and flavors to express themselves fully, while a poor flow can lead to excessive heating, bitterness and loss of sensory complexity.
Pairs and Figures: What Is the Ideal Cut for Each Format?
Not all cigars have the same shape, so understanding which cut to use on each type of piece is essential to harnessing the full potential of the blend.
- Pairs: They have a uniform cylindrical shape, with straight sides and constant dimensions (e.g. Coronas, Robustos and Churchills).
- Figures: They have special shapes, with fuselages or variations in diameter (e.g. Torpedoes, Belicoses, Pyramids and Perfectos).
In cigars PairsThe V-cut can also be an excellent alternative for lovers who seek greater concentration of flavors.
In the Different leaves for different purposesThe use of a small diameter of the head is recommended, especially in models with a pointed head, so that the end is narrower and the small removal is sufficient to ensure proper flow.
“A common practice among experienced appreciators is to cut little and test the expedition before expanding the opening, thus avoiding removing excess material and compromising the integrity of the cover”.
In Torpedoes and Pyramids, for example, V-cutting usually works very well, preserving the original design of the cigar and providing excellent smoke flow.
In the world of premium cigars produced in the Bavarian Recóncavo, where each specimen is handcrafted, respecting the correct cutting technique is a way of valuing all the work done from the cultivation of tobacco to the final twist.