Cigar 101: Do Cigars Go Bad?

How long will my cigars last?

Cigars are a beloved indulgence for many enthusiasts, offering a rich and complex smoking experience. However, like any natural product, cigars can deteriorate over time, leading to an unpleasant smoking experience. One of the most common questions among cigar lovers is "Do cigars go bad?" In this guide, we'll talk about the factors that influence cigar freshness, signs of a deteriorating cigar, and tips for maximizing the longevity of your prized cigars.

Cigar Shelf Life

Cigars are natural products made from tobacco leaves, including the filler, binder, and wrapper. These leaves contain organic compounds like oils, sugars, and other elements that contribute to the cigar's unique flavor and aroma. Over time, these compounds break down and the cigar will lose some intensity…but at the same time, the tobaccos will marry, and homogenize like leftovers in the microwave. It’s a little give and take. That’s why a blend will taste different once it’s been aged in your humidor for a few months or years than it would straight from the box.

The good news—if your premiums are well-cared for, they will never go “bad.”

What makes a cigar go bad?

Several environmental factors can accelerate the deterioration of cigars, affecting their freshness and quality. Let’s go over some common issues.

Humidity Levels: Proper humidity is crucial for maintaining cigar freshness. Low humidity causes cigars to dry out, making the wrapper brittle and the fillers lose flavor. Conversely, excessive humidity can lead to mold growth, ruining the cigar's taste and spreading to other cigars around it.

Temperature Extremes: Whether too hot or too cold, temperatures can negatively impact cigars. High temperatures accelerate the breakdown of organic compounds, causing oils to evaporate. Low temperatures can interrupt the natural aging process and flavor development.

Air Exposure: Cigars are best stored in an airtight environment to prevent excessive oxygen exposure. Prolonged air exposure can cause the tobacco leaves to dry out and lose their essential oils and flavors.

Light Exposure: Direct sunlight can degrade the wrapper leaf, causing it to fade, become brittle, and affect the overall smoking experience. Keep your humidor away from windows, especially if it has a glass top. It’s worth mentioning that direct sunlight will also raise the temperature inside your humidor…a double whammy.

How to prevent your cigars from going bad:

Proper Humidor Storage: Invest in a high-quality humidor to maintain ideal humidity levels (typically between 65% and 72%) and temperature (around 70°F or 21°C). Humidors create a controlled environment that protects your cigars.

Humidification and Seasoning: Use a humidification device like a crystal gel jar or a Boveda humidity pack. Season your humidor by wiping down the interior with distilled water or by using a Boveda Seasoning kit. Periodic humidor seasoning is essential to a well-kept cigar collection.

Cigar Rotation: Regularly rotate the cigars within your humidor to ensure even aging and prevent areas of uneven moisture. This practice also allows you to monitor their condition and catch any potential issues early. Bring cigars from the bottom to the top, and those on the sides to the center. Rotating your collection once every few weeks will help prevent a lot of the issues we’ve covered.

Temperature Control: Store your humidor in an area with a consistent, moderate temperature. Avoid exposing your cigars to extreme temperatures, as this can accelerate deterioration.

The bottom line…

Cigars are natural, and therefore, perishable products - and their freshness can be affected by various environmental factors. By understanding the signs of deterioration (like cracking, mold, and more) and taking heed of the above preventive measures, you can maximize the longevity of your cigars and enjoy a consistently rewarding smoking experience. Cigars will last a lifetime and beyond—and their flavors will continue to evolve over time like a fine wine—provided that they are properly cared for.