As a cigar aficionado, you know that the flavor and aroma of a perfectly aged cigar is truly something special. But achieving that peak smoking experience requires more than just selecting a quality cigar – it’s also crucial to store your cigars in the optimal environment. Improper storage can lead to dried out, harsh-tasting smokes or overly moist, hard to light cigars that burn poorly.
That’s why we’ve put together this comprehensive guide on the ideal temperature and humidity for storing your prized cigars. We’ll dive deep into the science behind why cigars require specific conditions and equip you with the knowledge to maintain the perfect environment, whether you’re a seasoned collector or just starting your cigar journey.
Why Cigars Require Precise Temperature and Humidity Control
If you’ve ever smoked a cigar that was too dry, you’re likely familiar with the unpleasant, bitter flavor and hot, quick-burning smoke it produces. On the flip side, an overly moist cigar is difficult to light and keep lit, burning unevenly with an acidic taste. Neither scenario allows you to enjoy the nuanced flavors and aromas the cigar maker intended.
The reason cigars are so sensitive to storage conditions comes down to the delicate interplay of oils and sugars in the tobacco leaves. Cigars are “hygroscopic”, meaning they readily absorb and release moisture from the surrounding air.
Excessive heat and low humidity cause essential oils to evaporate, drying out the cigar. Too much humidity, especially combined with higher temperatures, can oversaturate the tobacco, promote mold growth, and lead to an unpleasant, musty aroma.
As someone who appreciates the artistry and craftsmanship that goes into a fine cigar, you understand the importance of preserving those carefully balanced flavors. Just as a winemaker goes to great lengths to control storage conditions for aging wine, a cigar connoisseur must maintain the ideal environment for their cherished smokes. But what exactly is that sweet spot?
What is the 70/70 Rule for Storing Cigars?
Walk into any well-appointed cigar shop humidor and you’re likely to see a hygrometer reading close to 70% relative humidity and a thermometer around 70°F. This “70/70 rule” has become the default guideline for cigar storage, and for good reason – it’s a reliable target that works well for most cigars.
At 70% RH, the cigar will maintain a stable moisture level around 12-15% of its total weight, which is ideal for combustion and allowing the flavors to develop through aging. The 70°F temperature is warm enough to encourage the aging process without risking the vegetal, ammonia smell that can occur above 75°F.
However, like anything in the world of cigars, there’s room for personal preference and experimentation within a certain range. Some aficionados prefer a slightly drier environment around 65% RH, finding it offers a crisper, cleaner smoke. Others may inch up to 72-73% for a slightly cooler, more mellow experience.
The key is to stay within the acceptable range of 63-73°F and 65-72% RH. This allows for some flexibility to find your ideal conditions while avoiding the dangers of extreme highs or lows. Consistency is important too – aim to maintain your target level without major fluctuations.
Ideal Temperature Range for a Humidor
To really geek out about controlling your cigar environment, it’s helpful to understand the difference between relative humidity (RH) and absolute humidity (AH). RH is a percentage that represents how much moisture is in the air compared to the maximum possible saturation at a given temperature. Warmer air can hold more total moisture than cooler air.
In practical terms, this means the same RH can equate to different amounts of actual moisture as temperature changes. This is where AH comes in – it’s a measure of the total water content regardless of temperature, expressed as grams of water vapor per cubic meter of air (g/m3).
If you’re feeling a bit lost in the math, don’t worry. For most cigar storage applications, you can simplify it to this: aim to maintain your ideal RH level (usually 65-70%) while keeping temperature below 73°F, and you’ll have a suitable AH range. Use a digital hygrometer to monitor RH and adjust your humidification setup as needed.
Some hardcore RH nerds may use an electronic sensor and the Ideal Gas Law equation to dial in an exact AH sweet spot, but that level of precision is overkill for the average home cigar cave. Focus on the fundamentals of stable RH and temperature, and your cigars will thank you.
Avoid Extreme Ends of the Humidity Spectrum
We’ve covered why the 65-72% RH range produces happy, smokeable cigars, but what happens when your humidity level strays outside those bounds? Let’s talk about the risks of extreme dryness and dampness.
At humidity levels below 60% RH, cigars begin to dry out rapidly. First you’ll notice crispy, crumbly wrapper leaves that may split or peel. Expect a harsh, bitter smoke with little natural sweetness or complexity. Chronic low humidity can also cause irreversible damage like tunneling (uneven burning) or plugged cigars that are almost impossible to draw from.
On the other end, RH levels creeping past 75% spell trouble in the form of an overly tight draw, a damp spongy feel, and muted flavors. Sky-high humidity also provides an ideal breeding ground for cigar beetles and mold – both mortal enemies of your treasured collection.
The bottom line? Avoid RH extremes like the plague. If you notice your cigars starting to fade or swell, take action to get your humidity back on track. Investing in a reliable digital hygrometer is a small price to pay for peace of mind.
Conclusion
Now that you’re well-versed in the intricacies of temperature, relative humidity, and absolute humidity, it’s time to put that knowledge into practice. Here are some tips for keeping your cigars in prime condition:
- Invest in a quality humidor. Whether it’s a traditional wooden desktop model or a modern thermoelectric unit, a well-constructed humidor is your first line of defense against the elements. Look for a tight seal, reliable hygrometer, and efficient humidification system.
- Calibrate your hygrometer regularly. Even the best digital hygrometers can drift over time. Use a salt test or boveda calibration kit every few months to ensure accurate readings.
- Use distilled water or propylene glycol solution in your humidifier. Tap water can introduce impurities and promote mold growth.
- Don’t overlook temperature control. Avoid placing your humidor near heat sources like sunlight, radiators, or electronics. If you live in a hot climate, consider a wineador with thermoelectric cooling.
- Rotate your cigars occasionally. Shifting their position helps maintain even humidity distribution and discourages mold.
- Separate strong-smelling cigars. Potent cigars like maduros can overpower milder blends through scent “contamination”. Consider a separate humidor for the strong stuff.
- Let new cigars stabilize before smoking. When you bring home that special box from your local B&M, give it a couple weeks in your humidor to equilibrate to your preferred conditions.
At the end of the day, the “perfect” temperature and humidity for cigars is the combination that allows you to thoroughly enjoy them in your own way. Stay within the recommended ranges, be vigilant about maintaining steady conditions, and don’t hesitate to experiment until you hit your personal sweet spot. Your cigars are a reflection of your taste and passion – show them the love they deserve, and they’ll repay you with countless moments of pure smoking bliss.
jay
Self proclaimed cigar expert. I've been smoking since 2010. I've practically lived at a cigar lounge from 10am to 10pm and trying every new cigar that came out for years.
