Perhaps you have wondered why it is essential that you use a humidor to store your cigars. Maybe you heard of someone spending a rather substantial amount of money for a humidor. If you’ve been around a serious cigar aficionado you know how important they think using a good humidor is. Why is this the case?
Here’s why. Humidors are used to store and protect cigars. After all, a crushed cigar isn’t useful to anyone. Beyond just protecting the cigar physically, they are also used to keep cigars at a constant temperature and humidity. By maintaining this environmental consistancy the cigars remain in a state that preserves their peak flavor.
The ideal temperature for a cigar humidor between 68 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit, and around 70-72% humidity. While I’m not this anal about it, some aficionados maintain even closer environmental control to insure that the cigar is at just the right fraction of a degree. They claim that they can tell the difference between a cigar that was stored at 68 degrees versus one that was stored at 70. I guess I’ll just have to take their word for it.
However, it is important to note that if a cigar is stored at a lower temperature it will tend to age the cigar somewhat and change its flavor. Humidors are intended to preserve a cigar, they are not meant to age or otherwise change the cigar. Keeping it at a constant temperature and humidity is key to maintaining the character of a cigar, its integrity, flavor and color.
What You Should Look for in a Humidor
A well constructed humidor lid should close tightly. This is important in order to properly protect the cigars from the ambiant environment. You particularly want to avoid any unwanted moisture from creeping in or losing moisture to the atmosphere.
The seams of the humidor should be smooth. Cheap, poorly built ones, will have rough seams and will tend to develop problems over time, perhaps resulting in damage to your valued cigars.
Of course, the humidor you select should fit your favorite cigar brand and size. You don’t want one that is too small or too large since this can result in damage to your prized cigars.
Cedar is the preferred interior wood for humidors. Cedar and cigars just go together so well. The finest humidors are made with Spanish cedar. The exterior isn’t as important although some wilder options may not be practical.