As we know, the passage of time affects the
taste and aroma of a cigar. Especially the flavors and aromas of the premium
ones, because to make the long filler, characteristic of these cigars, whole
tobacco leaves are used that are rolled while it is still wet. This means that
to ensure that the leaves that make up the bond evolve satisfactorily, it is
necessary to maintain a certain level of relative humidity.
A place whose humidity is maintained between
68% and 75% provides the ideal environment to allow the mixture of the
different aromas and essential oils of the cigars. That is exactly what a
humidor does.
What and how is a humidor?
A humidor is a closed container that
incorporates a controllable humidification system in order to maintain the
level of humidity required to keep cigars in perfect condition. The relative
humidity level inside a humidor is measured with a hygrometer, and both analog
and digital, can achieve an exact level of precision within certain ranges.
Although nowadays they are made of various
materials, their internal walls must be lined with some type of wood that
absorbs moisture, so that the small fluctuations that occur when opening and
closing them can be compensated. There are many sizes and shapes, but it is
very important to select the appropriate size for the number of cigars you plan
to store since they should not be cluttered or with a lot of space between
them.
Another function that humidors fulfill is to
protect cigars from external odors, since tobacco absorbs the smells and
flavors of the environment with great ease.
Does it require any special
maintenance?
Although the care required by a humidor is very
little, it is important to check the humidity level with some regularity and if
it is very low, it is necessary to refill it. Electronic humidors emit a light
or sound signal when it is necessary to refill them, but with the others you
have to be vigilant and check the hygrometer frequently, especially during the
colder months, when the humidity levels are drier and the system humidifier
consumes more liquid.
It is very important to know that a humidor in
good condition and with its humidification system working properly, will allow
you to store cigars for many years, as long as you manage to maintain enough
space for proper air circulation, which is key to conservation of the internal
environment.
