Preserving and aging cigars is a well-known practice among enthusiasts, and I’ll elaborate on this process. However, to properly age cigars, you first need a humidor. So, let’s begin by discussing storage.
Cigars are natural, organic products, making them highly susceptible to environmental changes, particularly in temperature and humidity. To safeguard your cigars, a humidor is essential. This device is designed to replicate the conditions where the tobacco was originally grown, cured, and rolled. The ideal settings for a humidor typically involve maintaining a humidity level between 70-75% and a temperature between 70-75 degrees Fahrenheit. To gauge humidity, hygrometers are employed. Analog hygrometers have a classic appeal, but newer digital versions are far more accurate, often within a 2% margin. It’s worth noting that humidors should not be completely airtight, as this could promote mold growth. Also, avoid packing cigars too tightly. Humidors come in various shapes and sizes, ranging from travel tubes to full-sized rooms. When using a new humidor, remember to season it.
Seasoning a humidor is a process that requires patience and should not be rushed (note that plastic or acrylic humidors typically don’t need seasoning). Most humidors are crafted from Spanish cedar, which possesses the unique ability to absorb and release moisture, aiding in the maturation and aging of tobacco. This wood is preferred for humidifying and aging cigars. To season your humidor, take an unscented new sponge and moisten it generously with distilled water. Wipe down all exposed wood surfaces, including trays, dividers, interior lids, and seams. Avoid using paper towels or cloths, as they may leave remnants inside the humidor. After wiping everything down, re-wet the sponge and place it inside the humidor on a plastic bag, ensuring it doesn’t directly touch the wood. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to prepare the humidification device, always using distilled water. Most humidification devices are relatively simple, typically composed of plastic and sponge-like materials or a bottle that slowly releases moisture. Using tap water can lead to clogging due to debris. After filling, wipe off any excess water, let it rest on a towel for 30 minutes, and then place it inside the humidor alongside the damp sponge. Leave it overnight. The following day, refresh the humidity device and sponge, refilling if necessary. Allow it to sit for another night, and then remove the sponge and plastic bag. Now, you can add your cigars.
Inside the humidor, the aromas and flavors of your cigars will intermingle and blend, resulting in subtle shifts in flavor profiles between adjacent cigars. Some aficionados maintain multiple humidors to create distinct aging conditions. It’s important to note that most cigars already contain tobacco that has been aged before rolling. While in the box, the tobacco undergoes a melding process, exchanging flavors to establish a uniform profile. During this aging period, the tobacco also sheds impurities, enhancing the overall flavor. However, there are limits to aging; most cigars are crafted with a specific aging process optimized for when the box will be sold, much like wine having a peak, usually around 5 to 7 years. Nevertheless, you can notice significant flavor shifts in a matter of weeks, months, and even after a year or two.
When aging cigars, they can also absorb flavors from other cigars in the humidor. It’s crucial to maintain a consistent schedule for humidor maintenance. Fluctuations in humidity levels can cause cigars to expand and contract, leading to cracks in the wrapper. Many aficionados opt for a slightly lower relative humidity level, around 63-65% RH, as opposed to the commonly recommended 70%. Keep in mind that aging is a subjective process with no hard and fast rules. It’s generally advisable to age stronger and larger ring cigars, as they tend to have more flavorful tobacco that evolves and mellows over time.