Thinking about how to smoke a cigarillo for the first time? You’re in good company. A lot of people are drawn to them because they offer a simple, low-pressure way to enjoy tobacco. Not as long as a cigar, not as quick as a cigarette — they sit comfortably in the middle. Easy to carry, easy to light, and easy to enjoy.

For someone new to smoking cigars, cigarillos can feel like a smart place to start. They don’t require special tools, they’re widely available, and you don’t have to commit to a long session. It’s a laid-back experience that’s more about the moment than the ritual.

In this guide, we’ll walk through what to expect, how to smoke one properly, and the little things that make a difference. And when you’re ready to try your first cigarillo, we’ll point you toward a few beginner-friendly options that make it easy to start off on the right foot.

What You’ll Need

One of the best things about smoking a cigarillo is how low-maintenance it is. Unlike full-size cigars that often call for cutters, special lighters, or storage tools, cigarillos are simple. If you’re just starting out, you only need a few basics to enjoy the experience.

A cigarillo

Start with one that’s smooth and easy to handle. Filtered or flavored cigarillos are a good choice for beginners because the draw is usually softer. Al Capone cigarillos are a solid pick here. They come pre-cut, so you don’t need a cigar cutter or any special prep. Just open the pack and you’re ready.

A lighter or match

A regular pocket lighter works fine. If you’re indoors, a soft flame is ideal. If you’re outside and dealing with wind, a windproof or torch-style lighter can help. Try to avoid lighters with a strong chemical odor, as that can affect the flavor of the smoke.

Somewhere to tap ash

You don’t need anything fancy. Just a small dish, cup, or ashtray will do. Cigarillos burn slowly and produce ash at a steady pace, so you’ll want somewhere to tap off the excess when it builds up.

That’s all you really need. No humidor. No cutter. No complicated steps. Just a cigarillo, a flame, and a few calm minutes to enjoy it.

How to Properly Light a Cigarillo

Lighting a cigarillo might seem simple, but doing it right makes a big difference in how it smokes. A good light means an even burn, better flavor, and a smoother experience from the first puff to the last.

Hold it at an angle

Start by holding the cigarillo at a slight angle, with the tip just above your flame. You don’t want to jam it directly into the fire. Let the heat do the work rather than the flame itself.

Toast the tip first

Before you start puffing, rotate the cigarillo slowly over the flame. You’re not lighting it yet, just warming the end. This helps the tobacco burn evenly once you take your first draw.

Draw gently while rotating

After toasting, bring the cigarillo to your lips and take a few slow, steady puffs while still turning the tip over the flame. This pulls the fire into the tobacco and gets it fully lit without overheating it.

Check the burn

Look at the lit end. You want a glowing, even circle of ash. If one side isn’t burning, you can lightly touch that area with the flame to catch it up. Don’t overdo it, though. Too much heat can lead to bitterness.

Avoid relighting often

A well-lit cigarillo should stay lit with slow, steady puffs. If it goes out, don’t panic — just repeat the same lighting steps, but try drawing a little more frequently next time.

Lighting it properly sets the tone for the rest of your smoke. It’s not about rushing or torching it in one go. Take your time, and it’ll burn smoothly.

How to Smoke a Cigarillo (Without Looking Like It’s Your First Time)

You don’t need to be an expert to enjoy a cigarillo, but a little technique goes a long way. Smoking it the right way helps the flavor come through and keeps the experience smooth from start to finish.

Puff, don’t inhale

This is one of the biggest differences between a cigarillo and a cigarette. You don’t inhale cigarillo smoke into your lungs. Instead, you take a slow puff, let the smoke linger in your mouth to taste the flavor, and then exhale. It’s about enjoying the flavor, not chasing a nicotine hit.

Take slow, steady draws

There’s no need to puff constantly. Take a draw every 30 seconds to a minute. This gives the cigarillo time to breathe between puffs, which keeps it from burning too hot or too fast.

Let the smoke rest

After a puff, wait a few moments. Let the smoke clear from your mouth, then go in for another. It’s not about speed. A slower rhythm creates a cooler, more flavorful smoke.

Tap the ash gently

As the ash builds up, give it a light tap on the edge of your ashtray or resting surface. Don’t stub it out or flick it hard. The ash will naturally fall when it’s ready. A longer ash actually helps insulate the burn and keep it steady.

Stop when it feels done

Cigarillos don’t burn all the way down like cigarettes. Once the smoke starts to feel too warm or the flavor turns bitter, it’s time to let it go. Most people stop with about an inch left, or when the draw becomes too tight.

Smoking a cigarillo is about pacing. It’s not a chore or a race. Keep it simple, enjoy the moment, and let the cigarillo do its thing.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even though cigarillos are easy to smoke, a few small missteps can affect the experience. If it’s your first time, here are some things to keep in mind so you get the most out of it.

Inhaling like a cigarette

This is the most common mistake. Cigarillos aren’t meant to be inhaled. Drawing the smoke into your lungs can feel harsh and take away from the flavor. Take a puff, hold it in your mouth for a moment, then exhale.

Smoking too fast

Taking rapid puffs can cause the cigarillo to burn hot and uneven. This not only makes it taste bitter, but it also shortens the smoke time. A good rule is to wait at least 30 seconds between puffs. Letting it rest helps the tobacco stay cool and the flavor smooth.

Holding it too tight

Squeezing the cigarillo too hard can damage the wrapper or restrict airflow. Hold it gently between your fingers and let it sit comfortably in your hand. You’ll get a better draw and avoid cracking the wrapper.

Lighting it too aggressively

Jamming it into the flame or torching the tip too quickly can ruin the taste before you even get started. Take your time with the light. Toast the end, puff gently, and let the fire catch naturally.

Letting it go out and relighting too often

It’s normal for a cigarillo to go out if you leave it sitting too long, but relighting it over and over can dull the flavor. If you’re taking a break, try to keep the rhythm going with slow, steady puffs. If it does go out, just relight the tip gently and continue where you left off.

Avoiding these small mistakes helps you enjoy a better smoke. The goal isn’t perfection — it’s a smooth, easygoing experience.

What to Expect From the Experience

If it’s your first time smoking a cigarillo, knowing what to expect helps you settle in and enjoy it for what it is. Cigarillos aren’t about the rush — they’re about taking a moment for yourself and enjoying something that’s smooth, flavorful, and easygoing.

A mellow, flavorful smoke

Cigarillos are made for taste. Whether you’re trying a flavored option or a natural blend, the flavor stays in your mouth, not your lungs. You’ll get a warm, rich draw that builds slowly and never hits too hard if you smoke it right.

A shorter session

Unlike a traditional cigar, which can take 45 minutes or more, a cigarillo usually lasts around 10 to 20 minutes depending on the size and how fast you smoke. It’s long enough to feel relaxing, but short enough to fit into a break or a casual evening.

A smooth rhythm

Expect a steady pace. You’re not inhaling or chasing a buzz — you’re letting each puff roll in and out naturally. If you’re smoking something filtered, it may feel more familiar. If it’s unfiltered, it might feel stronger at first, but the draw will smooth out as you go.

A nice finish

Cigarillos don’t leave behind the heavy smell or lingering taste that larger cigars can. Once it’s done, you can move on without needing a full reset. A quick rinse or a sip of water and you’re good to go.

Overall, the experience is simple, focused, and relaxed. It’s not about being flashy or technical. It’s just a moment to enjoy, and with the right cigarillo, it becomes something you might want to come back to again and again.

Best Cigarillos to Try for First-Timers

When you’re trying a cigarillo for the first time, you want something that’s smooth, reliable, and easy to enjoy. No harsh draw, no complicated prep, just a solid smoke that makes the experience feel natural. That’s where Al Capone cigarillos come in.

They’re hand-rolled using natural tobacco leaf wrappers and come pre-cut, so there’s no need for a cutter or any extra tools. The draw is consistent, the flavors are balanced, and the quality shows from the first puff to the last. Whether you’re looking for something sweet, warm, or traditional, there’s a cigarillo in their lineup that fits.

Sweets

This is one of the best places to start. Dipped in a smooth cognac flavor, Sweets offer a mellow, slightly sweet taste that’s not overpowering. It’s easy to light, easy to smoke, and great for relaxed moments. Available in filtered and unfiltered versions.

Jamaican Blaze

If you want a little more warmth without going too bold, Jamaican Blaze is a great option. These cigarillos are dipped in rum flavor and have a smooth, aromatic finish. They’re also slim and convenient, making them perfect for quick breaks or casual smokes.

Blues

Blues aren’t sweet, but they’re still beginner-friendly. They feature an aromatic blend of Virginia, Oriental, and Tropical tobaccos. The flavor is mellow with a distinct character that gives you something different without being overwhelming.

Gold

For those who want the natural taste of tobacco without any added flavor, Gold delivers. Medium-bodied and balanced, it’s a straightforward smoke with no sweetness — just rich tobacco. Available with or without filters.

Sweet Cigar 

If you want a longer smoke with a more premium feel, the Sweet Cigar is a good step up. It’s still smooth and flavored with cognac, but comes in a sealed tube and lasts longer than a standard cigarillo.

No matter which one you start with, Al Capone cigarillos make it easy to find your rhythm. They’re available at gas stations, convenience stores, and retailers nationwide. To find one near you, check the official Al Capone Store Locator.

Be Real, Not Perfect

Smoking a cigarillo isn’t complicated, and it doesn’t need to be intimidating. With the right approach and the right product, it becomes something simple and enjoyable. Whether you’re trying it out of curiosity or looking to add a new go-to smoke to your routine, taking a few minutes to learn the basics makes a big difference.

If you’re just starting out, Al Capone cigarillos offer everything a first-timer needs. They’re smooth, consistent, and easy to find — no special gear required. From sweet and mellow to bold and classic, there’s a flavor and style for every type of smoker.

So take your time, light it right, and enjoy the moment. That’s really what it’s all about.

Find a store near you or shop online today!