Are you an avid cigar smoker? Do you want to ensure that your cigars stay fresh and flavorful for as long as possible? Proper storage is key to maintaining the quality of your cigars, but many people are unsure of how to do it correctly.
If you want to ensure that your cigars stay fresh and flavorful, it’s important to understand the basics of cigar storage. In this article, we’ll explore the different factors that affect cigar storage, and provide you with a comprehensive guide on how to store cigars properly. Whether you’re a seasoned cigar smoker or just starting out, these tips will help you keep your cigars in optimal condition.
What Is a Cigar?
A cigar is a tightly rolled bundle of dried and fermented tobacco that has been wrapped in a tobacco leaf. It can be enjoyed either by smoking it or simply inhaling the aroma. It is considered to be an acquired taste and its popularity has seen a resurgence in recent years. Cigars come in many different shapes, sizes, and flavors, ranging from mild to full-bodied.
Factors That Affect Cigar Storage
- Humidity: Cigars should be stored in an environment with a relative humidity of between 65-72%. Too much or too little humidity can cause the cigar to dry out, leading to a less enjoyable smoking experience. A quality humidor is essential for properly storing cigars.
- Temperature: Cigars are best stored in a cool, dark place. The ideal storage temperature for cigars is between 68-72 degrees Fahrenheit. Too much or too little heat can cause the wrapper to crack and the flavor to deteriorate.
- Light: Light exposure can be damaging to cigars, causing them to dry out and lose flavor. Keep your cigars stored in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight.
- Air Flow: Cigars should be stored in an environment with good air flow. Too little air flow can cause the cigars to become moldy or sour over time.
How To Store Cigars Properly?
- Invest in a quality humidor: A humidor is essential for correctly storing your cigars. It will help maintain the proper humidity and temperature, and keep your cigars fresh for longer.
- Monitor the humidity: Use a hygrometer to monitor the relative humidity in your humidor. It’s important to keep it between 65-72%. If it is too low, add a humidifier; if it is too high, open the lid of the humidor for a few minutes each day to let some of the moisture escape.
- Rotate your cigars: When storing cigars, rotate them regularly and keep them away from direct sunlight. This will ensure that your cigars are getting the same amount of exposure to humidity and temperature throughout the humidor.
- Avoid freezing or boiling: Never store your cigars in the freezer or microwave. Extreme temperatures can cause your cigars to dry out or even burn.
- Keep your cigars fresh: Cigars should be smoked within a few months of purchase, otherwise they may lose flavor and become stale. If you have more cigars than you can smoke in that time, store them in the refrigerator for up to one year.
Benefits of Storing Cigars Properly
Storing cigars properly has many benefits. Proper storage ensures that your cigars stay fresh and flavorful, with the aromas and tastes that you love. When stored correctly, cigars will burn evenly, producing a smooth smoke and an enjoyable experience.
Furthermore, storing your cigars in optimal conditions will help them last longer so you can enjoy them for even longer. Additionally, properly stored cigars are protected from mold or other contaminants that could ruin the taste of your cigars.
Finally, investing in a quality humid or and storing your cigars correctly will also help preserve their value; valuable cigars often increase in price with age.
Storing cigars is an important part of the cigar-smoking experience, and it’s essential to understand the different factors that affect cigar storage in order to ensure optimal freshness and flavor.
Types of Cigars
Cigars come in a wide variety of shapes, sizes, and flavors, ranging from mild to full-bodied. The most common types of cigars are:
- Corona: A corona is a medium-sized cigar typically 6 inches in length with a ring gauge of around 42. It is one of the most popular types of cigars and offers an enjoyable smoke for both experienced and novice cigar smokers alike.
- Robust o: A robusto is a short, thick cigar with a ring gauge of around 50. It offers a rich and intense smoke, making it popular among experienced cigar smokers who prefer a full-bodied flavor.
- Churchill: A Churchill is a large, long cigar typically 7 inches in length with a ring gauge of around 47. It provides an enjoyable medium for full-bodied smoke that will last for up to an hour.
- Lonsdale: A Lonsdale is a long, thin cigar typically 6 inches in length with a ring gauge of around 38. It provides a mild and smooth smoke that will last for about 45 minutes.
- Panetela: A panetela is a very thin, delicate cigar typically 7 inches in length with a ring gauge of around 34. It offers a light, mellow smoke that is ideal for novice smokers.
Humidity and Temperature Levels for Storing Cigars
Humidity and temperature are two of the most important factors to consider when storing cigars. The optimal humidity level for cigar storage is between 65-72%, while the ideal temperature range is 68-78°F (20-26°C). Anything outside of these ranges can affect the flavor, aroma, and even burn of your cigars.
Ideal Temperature Level
The ideal temperature range for cigar storage is 68-78°F (20-26°C). Anything outside of this range can affect the flavor, aroma, and even burn of your cigars. To ensure that your cigars are kept in optimal conditions, it is important to invest in a quality humidor.
Conclusion
Storing cigars properly can be a tricky process, but it is essential for preserving the flavor and aroma of your cigars. Investing in a quality humidor and maintaining the ideal temperature and humidity levels are key to ensuring that your cigars stay fresh and flavorful.