How to Retrohale a Cigar

Want to smoke like a pro? I'm Gerard from Mardo Cigars, and today I'll show you how to retrohale a cigar. It sounds fancy, but it's simply passing a little smoke out through your nose to unlock far more flavor. It feels awkward at first, then quickly becomes second nature. Let's break it down step by step.

What Is Retrohaling?

Retrohaling is when you take a puff of a cigar and gently let the smoke out through your nostrils instead of your mouth. You never inhale a cigar, and retrohaling is not inhaling. The smoke stays in your mouth and then travels up and out through your nose. That short trip is what makes all the difference.

Why Retrohale a Cigar?

Here's the secret: your mouth only detects a few basic tastes, like sour, bitter, and sweet. Your nose, on the other hand, picks up countless aromas. When you retrohale, you send the smoke past those scent receptors, so the flavors of the cigar open up dramatically.

This is why the same cigar can taste flat one way and rich the other. Once you learn how to retrohale a cigar, you'll start noticing notes like chocolate, coffee, pepper, and wood that you completely missed before. It turns an ordinary smoke into a full tasting experience.

How to Retrohale a Cigar (Step by Step)

The best way to learn how to retrohale a cigar is to ease into it. Follow these simple steps:

• Do a dry run first. With an unlit cigar, take a draw and push the air out through your nose. This trains the motion without any smoke, so it feels natural when you light up.
• Light evenly. Light the cigar and take a couple of puffs. Make sure the whole tip has a good, even cherry burning all the way around.
• Take a small puff. Draw a modest amount of smoke into your mouth. Remember, you do not inhale.
• Let it out through your nose. Gently push a little of that smoke up and out through your nostrils. Keep it light, especially at first.
• Repeat and adjust. A few tries is all it takes. Use less smoke if it feels too intense, and build up as you get comfortable.

I picked up this technique at the La Aurora factory in the Dominican Republic, where their tobacco university walks you through how to truly taste a cigar. Retrohaling was the game changer for me, and it completely changed how I enjoy a smoke. Once it clicks, you'll wonder how you ever smoked without it. Be patient with the first few tries, because the awkward feeling fades fast and the reward is well worth it.

Tips for a Better Retrohale

A few small habits make retrohaling smoother and more enjoyable:

• Use less smoke than you think. A small amount carries plenty of aroma and keeps it comfortable.
• Go slow. Easing the smoke out gently gives you the flavor without overdoing it.
• Try it at different points. Retrohale in the first, middle, and final third to notice how the flavors change as the cigar burns.
• Start with a milder cigar. A smooth, mild blend is the easiest way to practice before moving to fuller smokes.

Common Retrohaling Mistakes to Avoid

Most beginners make the same few mistakes when they first learn how to retrohale a cigar. Avoid these and you'll get it much faster:

• Using too much smoke. A big mouthful pushed through your nose feels harsh. Start with a tiny amount and you'll still get all the aroma.
• Rushing it. Forcing the smoke out fast is uncomfortable. Let it drift out slowly and gently.
• Trying it on a strong cigar first. A full, peppery cigar can overwhelm your nose early on. Begin with a milder smoke while you build the habit.
• Skipping the dry run. The unlit practice run is what makes the motion feel natural, so don't skip it.

Watch: How to Retrohale a Cigar

Prefer to watch? Here's the full Mondays with Mardo demonstration:

Final Thoughts

Now you know how to retrohale a cigar. Start with a dry run, take small puffs, and let the smoke out slowly through your nose. With a little practice, you'll taste your cigars in a whole new way. It's one of the easiest upgrades you can make to your smoking experience.

Want to keep learning? Read our guide on what cigars taste like and explore our maduro cigars guide to put your new skill to work.

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Mardo Cigars sells premium tobacco products intended for adults 21 and older. Please enjoy responsibly.