An Evening at Fletcher’s Cigar Bar & Social

There’s something undeniably old-school about the slow curl of cigar smoke in the air. Chrissy and Kelly of 386.com decided to embrace that classic vibe with a visit to Fletcher’s Cigar Bar & Social in Ormond Beach, Florida. They weren’t cigar experts—far from it—but under the guidance of owner Bill Fletcher, they were ready to learn the ropes.

A Crash Course in Cigars

Bill, who runs the cozy and welcoming cigar bar, began by explaining the basics: cigars come in a variety of sizes, shapes, wrapper colors, and flavors. Everyone’s palate is different—some prefer bold and earthy tones, others lean toward smooth and aromatic blends.

Kelly decided to start with a Java Drew Estates cigar infused with dark chocolate, while Chrissy opted for a Rocky Patel cigar with a light Connecticut wrapper—a more traditional choice for beginners.

Bill emphasized that cigars are much like fine wine: the experience is deeply personal. And just as wine pairs with food, cigars can be paired with drinks. He suggested asking the bartender for recommendations—certain beer or wine pairings can elevate the flavors of a good cigar.

Lighting Up — The Right Way

When it came time to light up, Bill demonstrated the guillotine cut, showing how to snip just the cigar’s cap along the seam. “You’re not chopping the whole head off—just the tip,” he explained.

Lighting was an art of patience. The flame shouldn’t touch the cigar directly; instead, you “toast” it, rotating gently to create an even burn. “Don’t suck in the air—just sear it,” Bill instructed. Once lit, he showed how to blow gently on the tip to check for that perfect red glow.

First Puffs and Rookie Mistakes

At first, Kelly and Chrissy weren’t quite sure what to expect. “How long do I hold it in?” Kelly asked. Bill laughed. “You don’t inhale.”

Soon enough, the rhythm settled in—drawing the smoke into the mouth, savoring it, and blowing it out like a quiet ritual. After a few tries, both were comfortably puffing away.

Cigar Etiquette 101

Before the night was over, Bill shared a few golden rules for cigar smokers:

• Don’t bite the end off your cigar—always cut it cleanly.

• Don’t ash too often—let it build up naturally for a better burn.

• Use wooden matches or a butane lighter, never a standard flame, to preserve the cigar’s flavor.

A good cigar, he explained, leaves a firm ash about half an inch long and burns evenly to the end. It’s not about rushing—it’s about taking your time.

A New Appreciation

By the end of the evening, Chrissy and Kelly weren’t just casual samplers—they were beginners with a newfound appreciation for the craft. What started as curiosity turned into an experience that blended taste, tradition, and conversation.

Whether you’re a first-timer or looking to refine your palate, Fletcher’s Cigar Bar & Social offers an easygoing introduction to the world of cigars—best enjoyed with a good drink and great company.

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