Every cigar smoker eventually hears about retrohaling. But the question is always the same: is it just for show or does it unlock something deeper?
The truth: retrohaling isn’t about theatrics. It’s about unlocking the full spectrum of flavor your cigar was crafted to deliver.
Why Retrohaling Isn’t Just for Show
When you retrohale, exhaling smoke gently through your nose instead of your mouth you activate the olfactory system. Since up to 70% of taste comes from aroma, this technique reveals notes you’d otherwise miss: earth, leather, spice, floral tones, and subtle sweetness.
“Unless you’ve blown smoke out through your nose while smoking a cigar, you’ve never really tasted the cigar.” - said almost everyone.
Retrohaling turns a casual puff into a multi-sensory journey.
The Science: Taste Meets Memory
Aromas triggered during retrohaling reach the brain’s limbic system the center for memory and emotion. That’s why one retrohale can transport you to a favorite whiskey, dessert, or place in time. It’s the same technique sommeliers and master blenders use to uncover nuance and complexity.
How to Retrohale a Cigar
- Draw smoke into your mouth, but never inhale (we know this already)
- Close your mouth and prepare to redirect.
- Exhale slowly through your nose, letting the smoke rise naturally.
- Start small: short, light puffs until you build comfort. Too big of a retrohale can turn a great experience into a terrible one.
Pro Tips for Mastering the Retrohale
- Begin with mild or medium-bodied cigars, save spice bombs for later.
- Try it in the second third of the cigar, when flavors hit their stride.
- Limit yourself to 1–3 retrohales per cigar to avoid nasal fatigue.
The Drawbacks
Not every smoker loves the retrohale. Overdoing it can sting the nasal passages like a hit of wasabi, or worse damage them. Some taste dramatic differences; others only subtle changes. Both are normal. The key is simple: use retrohaling as a tool, not a gimmick.
Why Aficionados Swear By It
For seasoned smokers and judges, retrohaling is non-negotiable. It’s how they evaluate construction, balance, and hidden flavors like cocoa, floral sweetness, or mineral spice. Many consider it the difference between just smoking and truly tasting a cigar.
Retrohaling isn’t about showing off, it’s about depth. Done right, it turns every cigar into a multi-dimensional flavor experience, unlocking aromas and memories hidden from the casual smoker. Start slow, choose the right cigar, and let your senses guide you. Once you master it, you’ll never look at your cigars the same way again.
If you’d like to keep learning about cigars and become a true aficionado, explore our other blogs: How To Cut A Cigar, How To Light A Cigar, Seasoning Your Humidor, The Art of Aging, The Art of Pairing.