Storing cigars - controversy and practice easily explained

In the first part, we talked about the fact that cigar storage is a controversial topic on which opinions differ widely. Today we look at how you can get the best out of your storage - without having to become a scientist.

• Cigar storage theme week part 1: Storing cigars - a controversial topic with many opinions
• Cigar storage theme week part 2: Storing cigars - controversy and practice easily explained
• Cigar storage theme week part 3: Storing cigars - long-term storage and ageing
• All theme weeks

Cabinet humidors in the background and a high-end humidor in the foreground; this is from Nüesch humidors.

The controversial topic: Do cigars need to be acclimatized in our country?

Cigars are natural products that react sensitively to fluctuations in temperature and humidity. They often experience a real "climate shock" during transportation from the tropics. They are transported refrigerated and frozen either by the manufacturer on site or later by the importer to combat tobacco beetle larvae. These processes put considerable strain on the tobacco. After arrival, cigars therefore need time to adapt to the conditions in the importer's warehouse and later in the humidor at home. This resting phase is crucial for the tobacco to stabilize again and develop its full aroma.

Acclimatization before perfection: stories behind successful cigar launches

A few years ago, DAVIDOFF launched a new line. Marketing was already underway and retailers were informed of when they would receive the cigars. However, shortly before the launch, DAVIDOFF decided to postpone the start of sales by a few weeks. During a test smoke, the experts discovered that the cigars needed to be acclimatized a little longer to develop their full potential. Gilbert de Montsalvat, who also delayed the start of sales of a new line to ensure that the cigars had reached the desired maturity, is also familiar with a similar approach. This approach shows the importance of patience and perfection in the cigar trade.

A good example is this tasting report from Despacito Nicaragua; this cigar had to acclimatize for a few weeks before it tasted "round". In my tasting reports, I always point out whether and for how long the cigars should be acclimatized.

The contentious issue: does it always have to be a wooden humidor?

A classic wooden humidor is the most popular storage method, but there are alternatives:

• Plastic boxes / aluminum boxes: A method in which you use an airtight plastic or aluminum box with a humidification element. Simple but effective.
• Refrigerated humidor: For those who want to control temperature and humidity at the same time. But be careful! Condensation can form, which is bad and the humidor can become far too humid.
• Cabinet humidor: Ideal for collectors who want to store a large number of cigars. Or who like to show off - no, fun 😅
• The most important thing: There is no "100% right" way - as long as your cigars are stored optimally, anything goes.

The topic of dispute: separating cigars

Another point that often leads to discussions is the question of whether cigars from different brands or regions should be stored together.

• Per separation: Some aficionados argue that cigars in a shared humidor can exchange flavors. I cannot confirm this from experience.
• Contra separation: Others say that this effect is only noticeable with long storage times and is hardly relevant with good packaging.
• My recommendation: You should always store the cigars in the humidor in cellophane (or in original boxes), otherwise they will lose a lot of flavor within a few days / weeks. Cigars without cellophane should be placed in an aluminum tube or packed in Zippo pouches; only Cuban cigars need a slightly different type of storage. This will be covered in part 3 of this theme week.
• Flavored cigars (yes, that crap really exists), however, must be stored separately.

How storage affects the taste

Many smokers notice whether a cigar has been stored correctly when they enjoy it.

• Cigars that are too dry: Burn faster and lose flavor.
• Cigars that are too moistDraw heavier and often develop a musty aroma.
• Well stored cigars: Develop complex aromas, burn evenly and offer the perfect draw resistance.

Conclusion of part 2

Storing cigars is not rocket science - and it doesn't have to be complicated. As long as you follow the basic rules and pay attention to your preferences, you can keep your collection in top condition with little effort.

Stay tuned: In the third part, you will learn all about long-term storage and how cigars mature over the years.

What do you think? Do you separate your cigars or do you store them all together? Share your opinion in the comments! 😊 Without registration, following this post.

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