If you’re just starting your journey into premium cigars, it’s essential to understand how to properly store them to maintain optimum flavor and freshness.
How to Store Cigars
In this article, we’ll explore the various factors affecting cigar quality and how to create the ideal storage environment using a humidor for beginners. So, let’s dive in and learn how to keep those precious cigars in top-notch condition.
Factors affecting cigar freshness and flavor
It’s crucial to understand the factors that can affect cigars to maintain your cigars’ optimum flavor and freshness. Cigars are sensitive to temperature, humidity, sunlight, and airflow, so any variation in these elements can significantly impact their quality and taste. Moreover, cigars can absorb surrounding smells, negatively influencing their flavor if not stored in the right conditions. Therefore, creating a stable environment that protects your cigars from these external factors is essential. In the upcoming sections, we’ll guide you in creating the ideal storage environment, choosing the best humidor for your needs, and maintaining it for lasting freshness.
Ideal storage environment for cigars
It’s crucial to create the perfect storage environment that closely mimics the tropical conditions in which they were grown and aged to preserve the premium quality of your cigars. This ensures that your cigars maintain their optimum flavor and freshness. Ideally, cigars should be stored in an environment with a temperature of approximately 70°F (21°C) and relative humidity of around 70%. These conditions replicate the natural climate of regions like Cuba and the Dominican Republic, where most cigars are manufactured.
A humidor is the perfect storage solution for maintaining these ideal conditions, as it has been specifically designed to regulate temperature and humidity. Whether you’re just starting your cigar collection or are a seasoned enthusiast, a humidor is a must-have accessory.
It’s important to note that the ideal storage environment can vary slightly depending on the type of cigar, the brand, or personal preferences. Some aficionados may prefer a slightly drier environment, such as humidity levels around 65%. So it’s always a good idea to experiment with different temperature and humidity settings to find what works best for your collection.
By providing a stable and controlled environment, you protect your cigars against damage from fluctuations in temperature and humidity, which can lead to them drying out or becoming too damp. When your cigars are properly stored, their flavors will continue to evolve and improve over time, ensuring an incredible smoking experience from the first to the last draw.
Temperature and humidity control
Maintaining an ideal temperature and humidity level will ensure your cigars remain in perfect condition. Generally, cigars should be stored at around 70°F (21°C), with a relative humidity level of 70%. These conditions resemble a cigar’s natural tropical environment and are vital for retaining optimum flavor and freshness.
You will need a reliable and accurate thermometer and hygrometer to establish and maintain proper temperature and humidity levels. Both digital and analog options are available, but digital devices tend to be more precise and easier to read. Place the thermometer and hygrometer in your humidor, ensuring they don’t come into direct contact with any of your cigars.
If your humidity levels are too low, you can introduce extra moisture using a distilled water solution or humidification devices such as humidification beads, pillows, or packs. If the humidity is too high, you can introduce a dehumidification system, such as a ventilation opening.
In addition to proper temperature and humidity control, remember to maintain consistency in these levels. Fluctuations can cause cigars to warp or crack, impacting their flavor and overall quality. Similarly, it’s vital to monitor the temperature and humidity often, making adjustments to help preserve your cigars for an enjoyable smoking experience.
Avoid direct sunlight and heat sources
Store your cigars away from direct sunlight and heat sources, as these factors can cause them to dry out and lose flavor. Exposure to sunlight can also cause the wrapper’s color to fade, affecting the overall appearance of your cigars. When choosing a location for your humidor, opt for cool, dark areas like a cabinet or a closet. Ensure the area is free from temperature fluctuations, as a stable environment is crucial to maintaining your cigars’ freshness and flavor. Keeping your cigars away from sunlight and heat sources helps preserve their optimum flavor and freshness for an enjoyable smoking experience.
Proper ventilation
Proper ventilation is another crucial aspect of cigar storage to maintain freshness and flavor. Ideally, cigars should be stored in a well-ventilated area, away from any strong odors or chemicals that can seep into the cigars and affect their taste. Ensure your humidor has an efficiently designed system that allows air to circulate and promotes appropriate humidity and temperature control levels for your cigars to age gracefully.
Selecting the best humidor
Now that you understand the importance of temperature, humidity, and proper ventilation for maintaining your cigars’ freshness and flavor, it is essential to choose the right humidor. Beginners may wonder where to start when selecting a humidor. Here are a few tips to help you make the right choice.
First, consider the material. A good humidor should be made from Spanish cedar or another hygroscopic material that can absorb and release moisture. This helps maintain a stable humidity level inside the humidor. Avoid humidors made from wood or glass, as these materials won’t help effectively regulate humidity levels.
Next, pay attention to the humidor’s size. Think about how many cigars you want to store and how much space you have for the humidor. If you are a casual cigar smoker, a small desktop humidor with a capacity of 20-50 cigars would be sufficient. However, investing in a larger humidor would be wise if you are a more avid cigar collector or plan to expand your collection. Remember, it is better to have extra space than not enough.
Lastly, look for a humidor that has an efficient seal. A properly functioning humidor should have an adequately tight seal to prevent moisture from escaping, ensuring that the humidity levels remain consistent and cigars stay in top condition.
Choosing the right humidor as a beginner may initially be a little daunting. Still, by considering the seal’s material, size, and quality, you will be well on your way to maintaining optimum flavor and freshness for your cigars.
Humidor size
When choosing a humidor, it’s essential to consider the size. For beginners, it’s best to start with a smaller humidor that accommodates around 25-50 cigars, as this will be easier to maintain. As your collection grows, you can upgrade to a larger humidor. Remember that your humidor should never be completely full, as this can affect the airflow and humidity levels, ultimately harming your cigars. Make sure to leave some space in the humidor for optimal storage conditions.
Humidor material
The humidor material is another crucial aspect to consider. Most experts recommend Spanish cedar as the best option because it maintains consistent humidity levels, absorbs excess moisture, and imparts a pleasant scent to your cigars. However, you can also consider other materials like mahogany, glass, and metal, which have their benefits. Ensure your chosen humidor provides a tight seal to preserve your cigars’ freshness and flavor.
Proper cigar placement within the humidor
When placing cigars inside a humidor, ensure they are evenly spaced apart to promote proper air circulation. Avoid stacking them too tightly, which can restrict airflow and cause uneven moisture distribution. Rotate your cigars periodically to maintain an even humidity level throughout the humidor.
Seasoning and maintaining the humidor
To ensure your humidor remains in optimal condition, season it annually and maintain it regularly. Use distilled water and a clean sponge to season the humidor, and monitor the humidity levels to make any necessary adjustments to maintain freshness.
