How long can a cigar be stored? This is a question that many cigar smokers ask themselves, as they want to know the best way to store their cigars. Most cigars can be stored for a considerable duration, although their shelf life depends on various factors like tobacco type and storage conditions, several years if properly cared for.
Understanding the impact of time on a cigar is crucial. As a cigar ages, it loses its flavor and aroma. This is why it is important to store cigars in a humidor or other controlled environment, as this will help preserve their quality for a longer period of time.
How long can a cigar be kept?
The life of a cigar
The life of a cigar is determined by many factors. The lifespan of a cigar is influenced by factors such as the type of tobacco, cigar size, climate, and storage method..
Generally, cigars made with higher quality tobaccos and rolled more tightly will last longer than those made with lower quality tobaccos. Also, smaller cigars tend to have a shorter shelf life than larger cigars. This is because there is less tobacco in a small cigar, so it dries out more quickly.
Cigars also degrade faster in hot, humid climates. Storing cigars in a cool and dry location is crucial for maintaining their quality. A humidor is the best way to keep cigars cool, but if you don’t have one, any airtight container will do. If the climate is dry, make sure to include a humidifier..
The humidor to keep your cigars fresh
A good rule of thumb is that cigars can be stored for up to five years before they start to lose their flavor. After that they will still be smokable, but the flavors will dull and the cigars will be much harder. For those seeking to age their cigars beyond five years, it is essential to store them in a controlled environment with proper temperature regulation, such as a humidor.
The effects of time on cigars
Cigars degrade over time
Over time, various factors contribute to the deterioration of a cigar’s quality.. Probably the most important factor is the evaporation of the oils that give cigars their flavor and aroma. As a cigar ages, these oils slowly evaporate and are not replenished, so the cigar becomes less flavorful and aromatic. In addition, the tobacco in a cigar dries out over time, becoming rougher and less pleasant to smoke. Over time, the wrapper leaf of a cigar can dry out, leading to potential cracking or peeling. This not only affects the cigar’s appearance but also alters its smoking characteristics. These effects are gradual and influenced by the quality of storage, but they are inevitable for all cigars, irrespective of storage conditions.
The aromas of cigars disappear if they are not stored correctly.
Cigar flavors and aromas come from a number of volatile compounds that are released when a cigar is lit and smoked. These compounds are quickly lost when a cigar is exposed to air, so it is important to store cigars in an airtight environment if they are to taste fresh.
If you want to know more about Humidors, read this article Spanish Cedar Humidors: The Ultimate Guardian of Flavor
