Retrohaling, the process of expelling smoke through the nose while smoking a cigar, is a technique often discussed among aficionados. It’s a practice that can significantly enhance the tasting experience, though it comes with considerations.

What is Retrohaling?

Retrohaling is a specific technique used by cigar smokers to enhance their experience of a cigar’s flavours. It involves directing the smoke from a cigar to the back of the mouth and then up through the nasal passages, rather than exhaling it directly out of the mouth. This technique is unique as it engages the olfactory senses located in the nasal passages, which are crucial for detecting a broader and more nuanced range of flavours.

In retrohaling, the smoke is not inhaled into the lungs. Instead, the process focuses on utilizing the nose as the primary route for the smoke to exit. This is significant because the majority of what we perceive as flavour comes from the sense of smell. The nasal passages have a dense array of olfactory receptors, which are more adept at picking up the various aromatic compounds in cigar smoke compared to the taste buds alone.

By redirecting the smoke through the nose, retrohaling allows cigar aficionados to detect subtle notes and complexities in the cigar’s flavour profile that might otherwise be missed. This can include a wide array of flavours, such as earthy, spicy, sweet, or floral notes, that are integral to the cigar’s character but may be less perceptible through the mouth alone.

How To Retrohale Cigars

To retrohale effectively, it’s important to follow a step-by-step guide that helps in mastering this technique. Here’s a breakdown of how to retrohale:

Take a Draw: Start by gently drawing smoke into your mouth. This is similar to taking a normal puff from the cigar, but it’s crucial to keep the smoke away from the lungs. Think of it as sipping the smoke, letting it linger in your mouth.

Close Your Mouth: After drawing the smoke, briefly close your mouth. This action helps in concentrating the smoke and preparing it for the next step. It’s a momentary pause that allows you to control the smoke.

Exhale Partially: Before retrohaling, it’s advisable to exhale a small amount of smoke through your mouth. This step reduces the volume of smoke and makes the subsequent retrohaling process smoother and more manageable, especially for beginners.

Release Through the Nose: The final step involves opening the back of your throat and gently pushing the remaining smoke out through your nose. This can be achieved by slightly exhaling while keeping the mouth closed, which naturally redirects the smoke to exit through the nasal passages.

Practice Makes Perfect

Mastering retrohaling takes practice and patience. It’s not uncommon for beginners to find this process a bit challenging initially. Here are some tips to enhance the learning experience:

Begin by using small amounts of smoke. This minimizes the intensity and allows you to get used to the sensation of retrohaling without overwhelming yourself.

As you become more comfortable with the technique, you can gradually increase the amount of smoke you retrohale. This helps in building your skill and confidence in performing the technique.

Consistent practice is key. Try retrohaling every few puffs to build your proficiency. Over time, you’ll find it easier to retrohale and start to appreciate the enhanced flavours that this technique brings out from the cigar.

Remember, retrohaling is an advanced technique that enhances the cigar smoking experience by unlocking more flavours. While it is not mandatory for enjoying a cigar, many seasoned smokers find it adds a significant depth to their smoking experience.

Should You Retrohale Cigars?

The decision to engage in retrohaling is a deeply personal one in the cigar smoking experience. It’s not an essential practice, but many aficionados find that it adds a new layer of depth to their enjoyment of cigars. The question of whether to retrohale or not often hinges on a smoker’s individual preference and level of comfort with the technique.

For beginners, the prospect of retrohaling can seem daunting. It’s advisable to start with small, manageable puffs and experiment with releasing the smoke through the nose. The key is gradual progression, allowing oneself to acclimate to the sensation of retrohaling. It’s important to listen to one’s body and comfort levels – if retrohaling feels unpleasant or causes discomfort, it may not be the right practice for that individual.

Seasoned smokers might use retrohaling sparingly, choosing specific moments in their smoking experience to engage in it. This selective approach allows them to enhance certain flavours or aromas at particular moments, rather than making it a constant part of their smoking routine.

The Benefits of Retrohaling

Retrohaling offers distinct advantages, particularly in terms of flavour perception. When smoke is expelled through the nose, it passes over the olfactory receptors, which play a significant role in how we perceive flavours. These receptors are more sensitive and diverse in their detection abilities compared to the taste buds on the tongue.

Engaging these olfactory receptors through retrohaling can unlock a cigar’s full spectrum of flavours and aromas. This can range from subtle notes like vanilla, cedar, and leather to more pronounced flavours such as pepper, coffee, or chocolate. Retrohaling allows these nuances to come to the forefront, providing a more complex and enriched tasting experience.

For many aficionados, retrohaling is the key to truly understanding and appreciating a cigar’s blend and craftsmanship. It can transform a routine smoking session into a more immersive and sensory experience, offering a deeper appreciation of the cigar’s profile.

The Downsides of Retrohaling

However, retrohaling is not without its downsides. The most immediate challenge for many smokers, especially those new to the practice, is the potential discomfort it can cause. The sensation of smoke passing through the nasal cavity is not something everyone finds pleasant. It can cause a burning sensation in the nose or even lead to coughing. This is particularly true for stronger, more full-bodied cigars whose intense flavours and aromas might be overwhelming when retrohaled.

Moreover, while retrohaling bypasses the lungs, it still involves exposure to smoke, which could be a concern for individuals with certain health conditions, particularly those affecting the respiratory system. Smokers with sensitivities or pre-existing conditions should exercise caution and perhaps consult with a healthcare provider before attempting to retrohale.

Overall, retrohaling can be a beneficial practice for those looking to deepen their appreciation of cigars, but it’s a technique that should be approached mindfully, respecting one’s personal comfort and health considerations. The decision to retrohale should be based on a smoker’s individual preferences, experiences, and the specific context of their smoking session.

Best Cigars for Retrohaling

When choosing cigars for retrohaling, it’s important to consider both the cigar’s strength and its flavour profile. For beginners or those new to retrohaling, milder cigars are typically recommended. These cigars are less intense and overwhelming, making them more suitable for practicing the technique. Mild to medium-strength cigars tend to have smoother, more subtle flavours, which can be easier on the nasal passages during retrohaling.

The flavour profile of the cigar is also crucial. Cigars with complex and rich flavour profiles are ideal for retrohaling. These cigars offer a range of aromas and tastes, providing a more engaging experience when the smoke is passed through the nasal passages. Look for cigars that have nuanced notes, such as earthy, spicy, sweet, or fruity flavours. These intricate flavours can become more pronounced and appreciable when retrohaled.

Additionally, cigars that feature a blend of tobaccos from various regions can offer the complexity and depth of flavour that enhances the retrohaling experience. The interaction of different tobacco leaves can create a symphony of tastes and aromas, making the retrohaling process more rewarding.

Overall, selecting the right cigar for retrohaling involves balancing personal preferences in strength and savoring the diverse flavours that the cigar has to offer.

Final Thoughts

Retrohaling offers a unique avenue for cigar enthusiasts to explore and enjoy the complexities of a cigar’s flavour profile. While it’s not a mandatory practice for every smoker, those who do choose to engage in retrohaling can unlock an array of subtle and nuanced flavours and aromas.

The decision to retrohale is deeply personal and should be made based on one’s comfort and preference. For beginners, the journey into retrohaling should start with milder cigars, progressing gradually as they become more accustomed to the technique. The choice of cigar plays a significant role in this process; selecting cigars with rich and complex flavour profiles can greatly enhance the retrohaling experience. Such cigars, often featuring a blend of diverse tobaccos, provide a spectrum of flavours and aromas that are more perceptible and enjoyable when retrohaled.

However, the practice of retrohaling should be approached with a degree of caution, especially for those who are new to it or have certain health sensitivities. It’s important to listen to one’s body and respect individual limits. If discomfort or adverse reactions occur, it might be advisable to limit or avoid retrohaling.

Ultimately, whether to retrohale or not, the most crucial aspect is to relish the cigar and the experience it offers. Retrohaling is just one of many ways to appreciate the intricate art of cigar smoking, a journey that is as personal as it is varied.