Two principles apply to the lighting of cigars.

The first is to light the cigar with a flame that does not contain aroma. A lighter with gas or a match with cedar sticks should always be used. One should never light a cigar with a petrol lighter, a scented candle or a match with wax, because their aroma will be transferred to the cigar.

The second principle is to devote the necessary time and attention to the ignition with the so-called Habanos Ritual. Nothing could spoil the enjoyment of a habano faster than a thin stream of smoke when smoking an improperly lit cigar.

Grasp the base of the cigar, place it 90 degrees to the flame and rotate it until the surface is evenly burnt. Place the cigar between your lips and holding the flame an inch from the cigar, puff (if necessary several times) until the flame at the end jumps. Continue to turn the cigar over the flame. Turn the cigar over so that you can see the scorched end and blow lightly on it to check that it is evenly lit.