Why does it get bitter?

[JJG]

Originally Posted by neoflex

Some times though it's just unavoidable if left to long. This is why I usually never revisit a stick if I had left it to burn out and sit more than 10-15 minutes.

This is what I was going to say.

I think we forget, (because cigars have gotten so much more expensive in the last 10 years) they aren't really meant to be smoked down until they burn your fingers, or re-lit multiple times.

Purging does work to a degree, but sometimes its just best to pitch it and light a new one. However, I admit this can be tough to do when you're smoking a $8 or $10 cigar.

[Tredegar]

I don't care what anyone says, a relit cigar never tastes as good as the original burn. I have tried and find a nasty, ashy flavor waiting for me when I relight. If a cigar goes out on me I toss it.

Now I have had the problem of cigars not staying lit even while being tended.