Spitfire and Cigars – the perfect combination

There’s something undeniably classic about the combination of cigars and Spitfire furniture. Both carry a rich legacy steeped in history, luxury, and a touch of nostalgia.

During World War II, the Spitfire fighter plane soared as the hero of the Battle of Britain in 1940, while Winston Churchill—Britain’s Prime Minister and an iconic figure—was rarely seen without his signature cigar. Even today, the ‘Churchill’ cigar remains one of the most elegant and recognizable cigars in the world, standing tall at 7 inches (almost 18 cm) with a 47-ring gauge. Perfect for after-dinner conversations, a Churchill cigar offers 60 to 90 minutes of pure relaxation.

Just slink into the deep leather of the Chesterfield 2-Seater Sofa by Spitfire – made with full grain leather – and put your feet up on the Foxtrot Leather Ottoman and rest your ashtray on Spitfire’s Dauntless Side Table. A perfect match? We think so!

Whether you’re sharing cigars with friends or indulging solo, Spitfire furniture sets the stage for an experience that exudes sophistication and comfort.

For those who enjoy lounging at home, why not curl up in the cosy embrace of the Banshee Egg Chair, adorned with its luxurious crushed velvet Union Jack upholstery? It’s perfect for unwinding with your favorite cigar, combining Spitfire’s signature design—a nod to the iconic aluminum fuselage of the fighter plane—with soft leather comfort, creating an atmosphere where you can truly relax and enjoy the unashamed luxury of a cigar.

Spitfire has sponsored numerous cigar lounges and relishes the opportunity to pass on the knowledge of setting a mood and the right environment for a crowd.

Cutting Your Cigar

Before you light up, mastering the cigar cut is key. Forget the kitchen knives and garden shears—this is an art. A quality cigar cutter, especially a straight or guillotine-style one, is essential. These cutters ensure a smooth, clean cut, allowing for better airflow and an effortless draw. Remember, cut just above the shoulder of the cigar (where the head starts to taper) to avoid stray tobacco shavings in your mouth.

Toast don’t roast

When lighting your cigar toast the end but don’t over-roast it. You can light your cigar with matches or a butane lighter, just tease the flame a centimetre or two away from the end of your cigar. If you push your cigar too far into the flame, it will burn unevenly and your first taste will be charred tobacco. Not good.

Rotate your cigar over the flame so that the circumference of the foot is lit evenly. Take several puffs as you slowly turn your cigar. A high-performance butane torch, allows you to target those areas that still aren’t burning evenly precisely. Once lit, roll it around in your hand and gently blow on the fire end.

Ashes to ashes

Try and create a firm, even ash as you smoke. A well-formed ash can hold for several centimetres, adding to the experience. To complement your setup, invest in a stylish ashtray with a deep dish and cigar rest—after all, elegance extends to every detail. When you’re finished smoking, let your cigar burn out naturally; there’s no need to crush it out like a cigarette. Allow it to fade away gracefully on its own.

Pairing with a Fine Brandy or Whiskey

For the full experience, pair your cigar with a snifter of brandy or whiskey. Take slow sips between puffs to enhance the flavours, but be mindful not to let the tip of your cigar become saturated—dipping your cigar into your drink might sound appealing, but it will ruin the draw and your evening. The key is moderation, allowing both the cigar and the drink to complement each other without interference.